South Kitsap: A 29-Mile Loop Ride (Moderate)

We will gather at the Port Orchard Marina (free parking), where my white Sprinter will await you. Be there, ready to go, at the time listed above.  We will start with a required safety briefing and roll out when that's done.  All riders must attend the safety briefing to participate.

It will be a relaxing bike ride, enjoying the crisp embrace of the autumn breeze as the yellow leaves roll around us; the toned hues will still be visible; riding bikes in South Kitsap in the fall is a wonderful experience.  In the first stretch, we will ride alongside the vibrant Sinclair Inlet, taking in the distant Bremerton Naval Complex, bustling ferries, the renowned Seattle skyline, and perhaps even some honking geese overhead among the many sights we will enjoy.  The final stretch leads us to a westward climb through the countryside.  After a few more climbs, the descent is thrilling at mile marker 16.5 for about 1500 feet, with a surprisingly steep negative 14% descent.  We then ride around Long Lake, Kitsap County's largest freshwater lake, before returning to the Marina parking lot.

The picture above showcases an impressive 30-foot memorial totem pole near where we will begin our ride, which the Makah Tribe named "Ha Tu Ba Di."

We will climb and descend hills at our own pace, regroup frequently, and limit our speeds on multi-use paths to the legal maximum (10 mph), ensuring a safe and enjoyable ride for all.  

The ride will last about three hours and may be shorter.  Restrooms are available at the beginning of the route in a nearby Josephine’s Mercantile.  As needed, restrooms and water breaks are available at mileposts 7 in Manchester State Park, 9 in Cups Espresso & Cafe, 13 in Harper Recreational Fishing Pier, 14 in Harper Park, and 18 in Long Lake County Park.  Additionally, coffee may be purchased at a few of these mileposts mentioned earlier.

Just in case, bring a spare tube and tools to fix a flat.  Other things to bring are a phone, ID, cash and/or credit card, ORCA card, water, and a small snack.  Please have full fenders if the roads are wet, or you may be asked to ride at the group’s rear.

Note: If weather conditions meet the weather cancellation criterion listed above or if there are unforeseen hazardous riding conditions or other unexpected events, the Ride Leader will cancel the ride, and all registered riders will be sent a notification email.  If the ride is canceled at least two hours before the start, the Ride Leader(s) will not be at the start location.  Please check before leaving for the ride.

We hope you can join us!