On September 6, just a few days before the 2020 smokestorm hit Washington, Corbin Hudacek and Jamie Van Beek teamed up for a 7-day south-to-north off-road cycling adventure based on the Washington Backcountry Discovery Route. The duo covered 640 miles and over 72,000′ of climbing in 7 days all off-road and gravel except for a few paved … [Read more...] about Hudacek & Van Beek: Hood River to Canadian Border
GPS
Destination: Bridle Trails
With so many fantastic hiking opportunities within easy reach of Seattle, it's no surprise that Bellevue's Bridle Trails State Park gets overlooked. I think people are missing out on a tranquil, convenient place to walk and run. Depending on where you live, it may actually be easier to get to Bridle Trails than other more popular parks. For example, I live in Seattle's Central … [Read more...] about Destination: Bridle Trails
Smoke Season Weather Window
I'm surprised to see how many folks have been out running and cycling during the recent smoky weather. It's as if the rest of us need to HTFU. Current AQI: Exercising in unhealthy air isn't like lifting weights: it's not going to make your lungs "stronger." And, just because you don't feel irritation or soreness doesn't mean you aren't doing damage. If you are … [Read more...] about Smoke Season Weather Window
Newcastle Climb
The climb to Newcastle Golf Course is a short .65 mile spur that frequently gets added to rides up and over Cougar Mt. Of course bragging rights come with getting to the vista at the head of the pack, but most group rides in Seattle typically regroup after all climbs and Newcastle is no exception. Folks often take a group photo as evidence of the climbing fun … [Read more...] about Newcastle Climb
Cycling the North Cascades Highway
By this time of year, I've usually cycled the North Cascades Hwy (WA State Hwy 20) out-and-back to Mazama at least twice. Unfortunately asthma has delayed my usual hit list of ambitious summertime rides. It's usually too hot in July to do a long ride with minimal water and shade, but last weekend high temps were only in the mid-80s so it was a go: A friend and I did the … [Read more...] about Cycling the North Cascades Highway