**CANCELLED** New Year Kick Off Ride

Please note: During COVID-19 Phases 1.5 and 2, all Free Group Rides are limited to six total participants: the Ride Leader and five others. Registration for the ride (using the red “Register Now” button above) is REQUIRED to participate. If you decide not to ride, please unregister for this ride so that an additional spot will be made available to another.

Face coverings (for mouth and nose) are required when the group makes extended stops. Face coverings are recommended for the duration of the ride. The appropriate social distancing between cyclists will be used while riding. Please bring personal hand sanitizer, disinfecting wipes, and tissues for use at rest stops.

Let's kick off 2021 strong, with a brisk ramble through the Snoqualmie Valley & Plateau! 

From Redmond, we'll work our way toward the town of Carnation climbing Novelty Hill then be rewarded with a fun but CAUTIOUS descent to West Snoqualmie Valley Road. We then meander by the Red Barn and Carnation Farms on our way to a Starbucks, for a quick something to eat/drink. The return works its way to Fall City then up Issaquah-Fall City Rd. passing by Duthey Hill Park, Beaver Lake, and back over the Snoqualmie Plateau. We'll throw in a climb up Louis Thomson for good measure!

PACE: We'll maintain a brisk pace (16-18 mph) on the flats w/o benefit or hindrance of wind. Ascents/descents (use CAUTION) will be ridden at the rider's own pace as we safely regroup at the top and bottom of hills.

FOOD: While a food/water/coffee stop is planned at Carnation Starbucks, it is highly recommended that riders carry ample hydration and a snack in case of delays.

FENDERS: For the safety and comfort of your fellow riders as well as yourself, long fenders with buddy flaps that extend to within 4 inches of the road are appreciated if roads are damp or rain is possible.

Riders should bring tools & knowledge to repair flats or minor mechanicals and be prepared to complete the ride on your own should your bike require repair. Please have a backup plan (someone to call or an ORCA card) if your bike will not get you to the finish.

Plan to arrive at least 15 minutes early to prepare yourself and your bike before the COVID & SMART safety briefing. Ride rolls out promptly at 10:00am.

RIDE START: Ride starts at East Sammamish Trail Parking behind the Redmond Whole Foods. 

RESTROOMS: Restrooms and water are available at the start (Port-a-Poddy/Whole Foods). Restrooms & water are available at the Carnation Starbucks.

REGISTRATION: Registration IS REQUIRED for the ride. Click on the red Register Now button at the top. Please unregister if you decide not to ride so that another may join.

CANCELLATION: Ride will be canceled for steady rain or other dangerous road and weather conditions. Should conditions call for a cancellation day of the ride, a cancellation notice will be posted in the comments below at least two hours prior. If conditions are questionable please check here before leaving for the start. The leader will not be at the start if the ride is canceled 2+ hours prior to the start. 

ROUTE: Ride With GPS route link is below. Please print a cue sheet if you want one.