Ride West Sound: Spinning a Tribute to 250 Years of the U.S. Navy (Moderate)

We'll meet in front of the Bike Barn Rentals, next to Bainbridge Ferry Terminal (see the location map above). 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.

Honor 250 Years of the U.S. Navy (1775–2025) with a memorable 65-mile ride through the heart of Kitsap County. We roll out from the Bainbridge Island Ferry Terminal and head west, cruising quiet backroads past the formidable Trident submarine base. In Keyport, we’ll break for lunch outside the U.S. Naval Undersea Museum, then step inside for a free visit—explore a real submarine control room and uncover the Navy’s deep-sea legacy. Next, we roll into Poulsbo for a well-earned treat at Sluys Bakery before spinning the final stretch along SR 305’s wide shoulder. Smooth pavement, scenic views, and one last pull bring us back to the ferry terminal. BYOL—most eateries are closed on Sundays, so plan ahead.

We’ll ride at a moderate pace (14–16 mph on flats), regrouping to stay connected and keep the effort smooth. With about 3,800 feet of elevation, the route offers a solid aerobic workout—rolling terrain for endurance, plus a few short climbs to boost strength without burning out the legs.

This loop will take approximately six hours, though it may run longer. We’ll stop at all available restrooms: the start (Bainbridge Ferry Terminal), Kitsap Memorial State Park (mile 23), Island Lake County Park (mile 37), U.S. Naval Undersea Museum (mile 46), Liberty Bay Waterfront Park (mile 52), and again at the finish (mile 65).

For those arriving from Seattle, the final ferry departure to ensure timely arrival at our meeting point is at 8:55 a.m. The return Bainbridge ferry to Seattle schedule is 3:00, 3:55, and 4:40 p.m.

For those driving in Bainbridge, there are two parking options:  
1) The Bainbridge Ferry Parking Paystation lot, situated behind the Bike Barn Rental building, charges an All-Day parking fee of $11.00.  
2) Free parking at the Bethany Lutheran Park & Ride Lot (map here). Please plan accordingly, as you'll need to cycle for at least 15 minutes to reach us in time for the meeting.

Bonus Fun Fact
Before we roll out, another quick nod to the U.S. Navy. Their work on early satellite navigation laid the foundation for the GPS systems we all count on—whether you’re chasing the group, rerouting after a missed turn, or tracking your miles with precision. So when your Garmin buzzes “off course,” just remember: a Sailor helped you find your way back.

For this type of ride, come prepared with plenty of water, snacks, and a packed lunch. Bring a spare tube, flat repair tools, your phone, ID, cash, or a credit card. Full fenders are required if the roads are wet, or you may be asked to ride in the back. As noted, please ensure you’re planned and are ride-ready.

Note: If weather conditions meet the weather cancellation criterion listed in the Weather Status 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!