The Hills of Gig Harbor (Historic Downtown Waterfront Start)

Chilly Hilly, Cascade's first event ride of the 2020 season on beautiful Bainbridge Island,  is coming up quick. Let's practice on a ride with similar hills so we can arrive at the start line with confidence! We'll meet in the heart of historic downtown Gig Harbor, in front of the Gig Harbor General Store, at 8:45 am for introductions and a brief safety talk before taking off at 9. We'll be headed out to more rural, scenic roads, north of the city. The route, linked below (can be downloaded and you can print a cue sheet if you want one). is 36 miles total - slightly longer than Chilly hilly and a bit more elevation too.  

"Moderate" pace is defined as 14-16 miles per hour on flat terrain, without wind.  There will be very little of that on this ride, so we will be regrouping after hills and before turns if we get spaced out. Please comment below, or feel free to contact me, if you are not sure if this is a good ride for you or if you have any other questions. Newcomers are welcome  - more information for newcomers linked above. 

There's free street parking and washrooms at the start. We'll be stopping at Al's Store in Olalla briefly at mile 11. Optional stop at Burley Store, mile 22. The last bit of the ride will be along Cushman Trail, which has a few washrooms and water fountains that we will stop at if needed. 

Harbor General Store has a deli and coffee. Riders are encouraged to stay for some post ride social time/re-fueling. 

Please register at least two hours before the ride by clicking the red "Register Now" button above. There is no need to unregister if you decide not to ride - if you are not there at the start time, we will look forward to seeing you on a future ride. 

Bring a spare tube and tools to fix a flat, just in case. Please have full fenders if the roads are wet, or you may be asked to ride at the rear of the group. Helmets required. Recommended items include: charged cell phone, id, some cash and a credit card, water bottle, lights on your bike (greater visibility, even during daylight, especially on gray days) a small snack, bike lock. 

Cancellation Notice: Steady Rain Cancels - hate to cancel a ride, but if I do, it will be posted in the comments section below at least two hours prior to the start and I will not be at the start location. If weather is "iffy" please check here before leaving for the ride.