Wally World: Ride for the Raptors

[[{"fid":"33190","view_mode":"default","fields":{"format":"default","field_file_image_alt_text[und][0][value]":false,"field_file_image_title_text[und][0][value]":false},"link_text":null,"type":"media","field_deltas":{"1":{"format":"default","field_file_image_alt_text[und][0][value]":false,"field_file_image_title_text[und][0][value]":false}},"attributes":{"height":1280,"width":1920,"class":"media-element file-default","data-delta":"1"}}]]The Samish Flats are one of the best locations in the state for viewing migrating raptors. A dozen or more species are recorded most years including Bald Eagle, Red-tailed Hawk, Rough-legged Hawk, Northern Harrier, and five falcons (American Kestrel, Merlin, Gyrfalcon, Peregrine Falcon, and Prairie Falcon). Ten species of owls have been observed on the flats or in the adjacent forested foothills with Short-eared owl being frequently observed.  Shorebirds, Trumpeter and Tundra Swans, snow geese, and 25 other species of waterfowl are commonly observed in the various ponds and waterways. 

This is a scenic, steady paced ride (12 – 14 mph) paralleling Padilla Bay and crisscrossing the Samish Flats.  The first and last 2 miles of this route are fine, packed gravel and are suitable for road bikes.  The ride is mostly flat with only a couple of hills; everyone may climb the hills at their own pace and we will regroup at the top.  This ride is as much about enjoying birds and nature as it is about riding a bicycle. Documentation of what to look for at different locations may be observed by clicking the camera icon in the RWGPS link below.  If we spot birds at a good viewing distance, we will stop to observe and photograph.  It is suggested that you bring binoculars and possibly a camera with a zoom lens.

We will meet at the Padilla Bay trailhead where there is a Honey Bucket, but no water.  There is parking.  To get to the trailhead take the Broad Street exit off of I5 in Mt Vernon (exit 226) and follow the signs towards Anacortes.  Turn right on Bayview Edison Road off of Highway 20.  The Padilla Bay trailhead is on your left less than a mile north of this intersection. Bring water and any food you may want as neither are available on the route. We will stop for a picnic lunch at mile 13.7 on Samish Island at a spot overlooking Samish Bay. 

Please be ready to ride at 10:00.  We will start with a required safety briefing and roll out when that’s done. If you miss the briefing, you will not be able to ride with the group. If you cannot make the ride, please unregister so that someone else may participate.  Also, be sure to bring a spare tube as well as the tools and knowledge to fix a flat – someone will stay with you while you fix a flat.  If the roads are wet, please have fenders or plan on riding at the end of the line. If you want a cue sheet, you will need to print one for yourself from the RWGPS link.

Ride Cancellation: Should conditions require ride cancellation, a notice will be posted on this site by 8:00. If canceled, the ride leader will not be at the start.

We hope you can join us.