France Training Series: This is part of our training series for the
Unique Tours through the
France Mountain Passes (Pyrenees, Alps & Corsica).
About this ride:
Routes range from 75 miles/5000 ft to 118 miles/7000 ft, each at various paces. Old Blewett Pass is a very challenging climb and those without sufficient base miles should not attempt it, but the reward is a great mountain switchback on a small rural road with nearly non-existent traffic. The scenic Chiwawa
loop is not particularly challenging on its own, but Old Blewett
looms ahead!
Ride Start: Liberty Cafe
(US-97
Cle Elum, WA 98922)
Meet at: 8:30 AM for a 9:00 AM start.
Maps and Itinerary:
Route 1 - 75 miles/about 5000 ft - Old Blewett Pass Loop
Route 2 - 118 miles/7500 ft - Old Blewett Pass + Chiwawa Loop
Difficulty and Profile:
We are starting from the Liberty Cafe to avoid the strong headwinds into Cle Elum. The Old Blewett Pass ride is 75 miles with 5040 ft of gain, adding the optional Chiwawa Loop, it is 118 miles and 2500 additional feet in elevation. but only strong cyclists should ride Chiwawa, others should save their legs for the climb up to Old Blewett Pass. There will only be planned re-groups at Leavenworth. Once the final climb to Old Blewett
starts, people are encouraged to ride at their own pace following the
cue-sheets.
Pace: Cue sheets are sent via email to all NPOC members and to cyclists who RSVP.
There are usually 2 or more pace groups that form, but slower and faster riders who can read a cue sheet and solve possible mechanical
problems are also welcome.
Regroup/Experience: A short stop is planned at Leavenworth for those on
the long loop. Brisk/Strenuous riders will not regroup frequently and stop as little as possible.
All riders are expected to be fit enough to participate in this ride and should
be able to follow a cue sheet and/or map and to fix possible flats or problems.
We recommend that you carry at least two spare tubes, a pump and a basic tool
kit.
Lunch stop: Shorter loop riders may stop in Leavenworth for lunch. People
on the long loop are encouraged to only make a short stop.
After Ride Feed: The Liberty Cafe closes early (sometimes at
4 or 5PM). Those making it back on time will meet there for their
delicious pies. US-97 Cle Elum, WA 98922, Phone: (509) 857-2030.
Safety Issues: This ride is recommended for experienced moderate to
strenuous cyclists. We encourage people to ride at their own pace and emphasize
safety and strict adherence to traffic rules. Be aware of dehydration and heat
exhaustion. Helmets must be worn at all times.
Cancellation: Heavy rain cancels/group decision in case of drizzle/light
rain.
Carpool: NPOC members can arrange carpooling through our online forum.
RSVP: Your response helps us estimate the number of riders (and leads needed),
allows us to email you the cue-sheets, and allows us to tell you if there are any last minute ride changes due to weather/road conditions or other emergencies.
Questions:
Contact us.
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