Mt Rainier - Car Free (Self Paced)

Let's meet at the White River Campground parking lot. 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.

This is one of the rare times cyclists can ride to Sunrise car free.  The park service has closed the road to vehicles but it is open to bicycles. Note that this ride climbs over 2200 feet in 10 miles to the Sunrise parking lot which is at 6100 feet elevation. Since the road is closed, Sunrise facilities may also be closed. Plan on bringing water and food and extra clothes (especially for the descent which could be cool). We will meet at the large parking lot which is on the left just before the campground.  The climb has a grade of 5 -7%. It is a 10 mile climb but not grueling steep. Most steady/ moderate riders will do the climb in appx 2 hours.  Also note that the ride from the summit back to the parking lot will take appx 35 minutes. This is an incredibly scenic ride and having it car free is a bonus.  Note also that the window for this ride is closing.  My guess is the park service will close the road on about October 09. I will be stopping often to enjoy the fall colors, wildlife and scenery both on the climb and descent. I will try to keep an eye on riders but mostly each rider will be independent or riding with friends

We will climb and descend hills at our own pace, and due to the terrain we will only regroup at the summit.

Restrooms and water are available at the start. That will be the only spot for either as Sunrise visitor center is closed. The entrance fee for Mt Rainier is $30 per vehicle. Cell coverage is very limited. Carpooling is recommended..

Bring a spare tube and tools to fix a flat, just in case. Other things to bring: phone; ID; cash and/or credit card; extra clothes; water and a lunch. Please have full fenders if the roads are wet, or you may be asked to ride at the rear of the group.

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.

We hope you can join us!