Midweek Eastside On Wheels - Zoo Hill+ (Moderate)

Let's meet at the South Kirkland Park and Ride -- click on "(map)" link under Location to get an exact meeting spot. Be there, ready to pounce 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.

Get ready for a classic local climb! This ride takes us up the challenging Zoo Hill and (optional) bonus climb on Cougar Mtn Drive. The route is ~26 miles, but packs a significant punch with 2,540 feet of elevation gain concentrated within the Zoo Hill climb itself. This makes for a demanding ride, especially if you haven't done much climbing recently or are new to sustained uphill efforts. If you're not familiar with the Zoo Hill, please watch Zoo Hill Climb Guide youtube video (courtesy of Best Side Cycling), or review the Strava segment information.

Please assess your readiness for a significant climbing challenge before registering.

We will climb and descend hills at our own pace, and we will REGROUP as needed at some of the break points during the Zoo climb.

Restrooms are NOT available at the start. We will stop along the way for restrooms/water at mile 16.3 at Lewis Creek Visitor Center.

Rider Responsibility, Navigation & Mechanicals: Please be prepared to be self-sufficient on this ride. This includes knowing how to handle minor mechanical issues (like changing a flat) and carrying the necessary tools and supplies. Should you become separated from the group for any reason (mechanical, pace, etc.), you are responsible for your own navigation and safe return. We strongly recommend downloading the route to a GPS device or phone app. Have a backup plan in case you cannot complete the ride, such as a charged cell phone to call for pickup or an ORCA card for public transit options along the route. While we regroup at designated points, please understand that ride leader(s) may not be able to wait indefinitely for individuals who fall significantly behind or require lengthy stops.

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 cancelled at least two hours before the start, Ride Leader(s) will not be at the start location. Please check before leaving for the ride.