Whidbey metric century

Visiting one of the Puget Sound islands is worth some effort and Whidbey is no exception.

This route starts with a relatively easy drop to Mukilteo, then a short ferry ride to Clinton on Whidbey Island. After that, it is a lot of up and down to the south end of the island and over to the west side, then north to Freeland. We'll stop at the Payless Foods in Freeland where riders can get a bite to eat and water, as needed. It is then a gentle ride north to the Baby Island area and the start of the real work as we hit Saratoga Road and all of its climbs on the southbound leg back to Clinton along the east side of the island. We'll catch the ferry back and then do the climb out of Mukilteo and return to our starting point.

The flats (what there are of them) will be ridden at 14-16 mph. 

THE START: There are neither bathrooms nor a water source at the Ash Way Park & Ride. Your first chance for either will be on board the ferry in Mukilteo at 9 miles. Please, come prepared.

THE FERRY: Bring money or an ORCA card to pay for your ferry trip. Information about fares is available online at the Washington State Ferries site: http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/ferries/fares/FaresDetail.aspx?tripdate=20180916&departingterm=14&arrivingterm=5

Also, it is a good idea to bring a small bungee cord to lash your bike to a railing on the boat. There are some ropes, in various areas, but they are limited on these smaller ferries.

REST STOPS: Ferry at 9 miles; Payless Foods, Freeland, 36 miles; ferry at 57 miles. 

A Ride With GPS route map with cue sheet is available at the link below. Please, print your own cue sheet if you want one. 

While the island is scenic, it is mostly rural and services are very limited to nonexistent in areas. Make sure you have the tools, a spare tube or patch kit -- and the knowledge -- to fix a flat. Also, you should have a phone to call for a rescue ride if your bike suffers a major mechanical problem. 

The drizzly season is starting, so if there is a chance of showers or the roads are wet, please, have fenders on your bike. Fenders are not required but if you don't have them and it gets wet, you will be asked to ride at the back of the group.

REGISTRATION: Please use the club's electronic system by clicking on the red Register Now button. 

CANCELLATION: In case of steady rain, a notice of cancellation will be posted two hours before the ride. If questionable, please check here before leaving home.