Friday (6/10) I had a chance to ride Washington Pass (ele. 5477), departing from Sun Mountain Lodge (ele. 3000). The first leg was a 1200 foot drop from Sun Mtn to Winthrop, 9 or 10 miles downhill. Highway 20 from Winthrop (ele. 1800) up and over Washington Pass has an excellent surface and is easily ridable to the right of the white line. Round trip took 5-plus hours solo, with the georgous N. Cascades and Methow Valley as background scenery. The 14 mile ride from Winthorp to Mazama took 1 hour to gain a few hundred feet into a moderate breeze. From Mazama the climbing starts almost immediately, with some brief tiers for recovery along the way. The grade steepens a bit the last 10 miles to the top, and soon thereafter a steep switchback comes into view about 7 miles distant, just to haunt and torment you. I was pleased to discover that the top was only some 2 miles from the bend in the switchback. Total ride was 83 miles and 5840 feet of elevation gain. It is a spectacular ride for anyone hungry for a healthy climb.

Twenty seven riders enjoyed a light breeze and ideal temperatures on Wednesday evening. We start together and reformed at halfway point. Four groups averaged 14 mph to 20 mph and club officers served as hosts. Laughter and smiles were frequent and friendship seemed to be the overall theme. We had several relatively new people plus first timers; who seemed to be glad they found us.

We had some riders out for the 'Founders Ride' on Tuesday night. The riders rode for under an hour and completed a bit under 10 miles. They were led at a comfortable pace; by the co host of this ride Mike Gearheart. Dave Brown said, it was way fun and he would come out again. Brian Cox hosts next week. Remember 7:00 PM at the Eisenhower Tennis Courts 10 - 13 MPH.

We had some riders out for the 'Sunny Side Up Ride' on Wednesday Morning. We went up to Cottonwood Canyon School from Starbuck at Rosauers. The Espresso Brownie at the West Valley Starbucks made it worth it. Donny Leadon hosts. Remember 5:15 AM (sharp) at the parking lot in front of Rosauers 13-15 MPH.

Written by -
Brian Cox

MOUNT ADAMS CYCLING
PO Box 745
Yakima, Wa 98907