Adventure Tahoma | Cascade Bicycle Studio

Ride to the Crown Jewel of the Pacific Northwest: Tahoma. There’s nothing better than a mid-summer Mt. Rainier excursion. This route covers 57 miles total, with 4,100 feet of ascent in one steady ramp at sub 6% gradients.

We’ll move at photo-pace: 16-18 mph on the flats (if there are any). Plan for a full day of fun, with 4-5 hours in the saddle. We’ll reconvene at the top of pitches and other pull-off points as opportunities present themselves.

Itinerary – Saturday, August 5th

6:00 am: Meet at Cascade Bicycle Studio (180 N Canal St, Seattle, WA 98103).
6:30 am: Begin driving to start point: Federation Forest State Park.
8:30 am: Begin riding.
4 to 5 hours of views and smiles.
Cookout in the park.

Route

This route ascends Chinook Hwy, then turns off at mile 19 for the climb up to Chinook Pass. The total distance is 70 miles with 5,700 feet of climbing at gradients between 3 and 6%.

Details Make the Difference

Facilities at Start

Federation Forest State Park has restrooms and picnic shelters.
Water will be provided at the van.

Resupply Points

Silver Springs Campground: mile 13.5 miles and 1,110 feet into the climb.

Surface

This is a tarmac ride. Road tires are recommended.

Chinook Hwy has much less traffic than other roads throughout the park, but is often lacking shoulder space. Single-file will likely be appropriate for the majority of this route.

Bailout

There will not be a sag vehicle. Please tell other riders if you deviate from the route or turn back.

Sunrise Park Road (at mile 19 and 2200 feet) is a good turnaround point if you’d prefer a shorter ride.

Conditions

Forecast is seasonally warm and likely sunny, but the descent may be chilly.

Equipment

Required

Inflation source
Tube
Tire plugs, if tubeless
Tire lever
2 large water bottles
Discovery Pass for parking at Federation State Park. They have a kiosk on-site to buy a day pass.
Credit card for Mt. Rainier entrance pass. $16 (no cash accepted): https://www.nps.gov/mora/planyourvisit/fees.htm

Suggested

Gilet (for descent from the summit)
Sunscreen

Food

The world-famous Mallan Sammie (demi-baguette, salami, swiss cheese) will be provided at the start. Pairing recommendation: Summit views, after a bit of jersey conditioning.
Skratch Labs nutrition will be provided at the start.
Water will be provided at the start.
Cookout burgers / bratwurst and beers will be served at the finish.