Kenmore-Bellevue Loop (Chris's Mentored 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. Appropriate social distancing between cyclists will be used while riding. Please bring personal hand sanitizer, disinfecting wipes and tissues for use at rest stops.

Join us for ride leader candidate, Chris Stewart's, first mentored ride for a loop through the eastside burbs. From Kenmore we'll work our way toward Bellevue rolling through Kirkland and Medina on our way to the delectable Belle Pastry in Bellevue for a quick bite to eat. Our return brings us through Bridal Trails, Redmond, Woodinville, and Bothell. While most of the ride is on roads, we'll hop on the 520, Sammamish River, and Burke Gilman trails for short spurts. 

We'll warm up our legs climbing Juanita Drive, but we'll take it easy as it begins at approx.1.5 miles. After which, we are rewarded with a fun descent into Kirkland before climbing up Market and then down into downtown Kirkland for a lovely stretch along Lake WA. The remainder of the route is much more sedate with the gentle upgrade of 116th through Bridal Trails followed by a mellow return to Kenmore.

PACE: We'll maintain a steady pace (12-14 mph) on the flats w/o benefit or hindrance of wind. Ascents/descents will be ridden at rider's own pace as we will regroup at the top and bottom of hills.

FOOD: While a food stop is planned, it is highly recommended that riders carry ample hydration and a snack in case we are delayed.

FENDERS: For the safety and comfort of your fellow riders as well as yourself, long fenders with buddy flaps that extend to within a few 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 20 minutes early in order to prepare yourself and your bike prior to COVID & safety briefing. Ride rolls out promptly at 10:00.

RIDE START: Ride starts at Bothell Ski & Bike in Kenmore. Please park in the spaces on the west side of the lot so we don't impede Bothell Bike's customers. If necessary, overflow parking is available across 522 along the side road (NE 175th St.), accessible from 73rd Ave NE just west of Bothell Bike. A crosswalk for 522 is at the corner for safe access to Bothell Bike.

RESTROOMS: Restrooms and water are NOT available at the start. Please plan accordingly. Restrooms are along the route as necessary. Water may not be available!

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

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

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