Sunrise with Chinook Pass Option

This is a COGS classic that we haven't done in a while, and good training for you RAMRODers (and anyone else who likes riding up mountain passes).

Highlights: July 10th, Wednesday ride up Sunrise on Mt Rainier with an optional climb to Chinook Pass.

Distance/Elevation: Round trip ride to Sunrise is approximately 41 miles and 4500 feet. Chinook is an additional 14 miles/2,000 feet round trip. For sure we will do Sunrise, beyond that is TBD.

Meeting Location/Meet up Time: Meet in Crystal Mountain lower “dirt” parking lot just off highway 410 and the Crystal Mountain cutoff road. Plan to meet NLT 9:30 am.

Car Pooling: Carpool if you can.

Pace/” Stay together ride”: This is a “stay together” ride – not that we will climb/descend together but that we will hang together for mutual support and camaraderie.  We will ride together on 410 at a moderate pace, and then Climb/descend to/from Sunrise at your own pace. Regroup at top of Sunrise for lunch/snack. Descend at your own pace but regroup at the park entrance  before getting back on route 410 - After Sunrise riders can elect to continue onto Chinook Pass or Crystal Mountain or call it a day and head home.

Equipment: Bring money/pass for park entrance and lunch/snack, couple water bottles, energy food, spare tubes, pump, and other biking gear to make yourself self-sufficient.  Extra layers of clothing are advised as it can be quite cold at the summit even in July.  Sunscreen is good to have as well.

Weather/cancellation: As of this posting, road condition on Sunrise Park Road is "closed/unplowed."  The park service has an estimated opening for Sunrise Road of July 4th.  If you plan to meet us inside the gate you will need to obtain a timed entry permit.  The ride will be postponed or cancelled by the evening before if road or weather conditions are prohibitive.