Are you ready to venture beyond the paved paths and embrace the rugged beauty of off-road cycling? To explore landscapes untouched by velodromes and electric car routes? If you possess a spirit of adventure and a thirst for wilderness, the Cascade Bike Club invites you to an unforgettable experience.
Nestled to the east of the majestic North Cascades, the Methow Valley awaits, a realm of rolling foothills and dramatic ravines that challenge even the most persistent cell phone signals. From the charming town of Winthrop, steeped in frontier history, we’ll embark on a journey into the surrounding hills – north, south, east, and perhaps even west – to reconnect with the raw essence of the land that predates the reign of asphalt.
The Cascade Bike Club proudly presents the third edition of this exceptional gravel ride, a three-day escape from the ordinary world of bike lanes and bustling highways. Prepare for daily loops that blend intriguing pavement, unpaved backroads, and genuine dirt tracks, culminating each day with a smoother return to town. This allows you to once again appreciate the scenery and anticipate the well-deserved post-ride refreshment. With rider capacity capped at 200 in 2025, this event promises a wonderfully social and intimate atmosphere.
This unique gravel riding experience is more than just an adventure; it’s a vital fundraiser supporting the Cascade Bike Club’s crucial programming in advocacy, education, and community rides. By participating, you’re contributing to a thriving cycling community and the promotion of safe and accessible biking for all.
Rider Communications
To ensure you’re fully prepared for this exciting gravel adventure, the Cascade Bike Club will send out two informative emails in the weeks leading up to the tour. These communications will contain essential details and helpful tips to enhance your experience.
Furthermore, you’ll be invited to an optional informational session via Zoom approximately two weeks before the tour commences. This is a fantastic opportunity to ask questions, gain insights, and connect with fellow riders and Cascade Bike Club representatives.
Registration Details
Mark your calendars! Registration opens on February 11th at 10 a.m. for Cascade Bike Club members. Due to the immense popularity of this event, which sold out in both 2023 and 2024, early registration is strongly recommended to secure your spot.
Please note that NO registration will be available at the start line. To comply with permit restrictions and ensure a high-quality experience for all participants, we are unable to accommodate walk-ups or exceptions. Register online in advance to avoid disappointment and join the Cascade Bike Club for this premier gravel riding event.
Explore the Route
Please be aware that the routes are subject to potential adjustments for the 2025 event. Minor modifications are anticipated for the third day’s route and the start line location. The Cascade Bike Club prioritizes rider safety and route quality, so these changes, if any, will be implemented to enhance the overall experience.
For the most accurate route information, please wait until the day of the event to download the map. This ensures you have the latest and most up-to-date details for your ride.
Each day’s route features a shorter loop option, reducing the ride distance by approximately one-third to one-half. This allows riders to choose a challenge level that suits their fitness and preferences, making the event accessible to a broader range of cyclists within the Cascade Bike Club community and beyond.
For a detailed preview of the routes, click through to view the full map on Ride With GPS.
Event Schedule Overview
| Friday | Opens | Closes |
|---|---|---|
| Rider Check-In | 8 a.m. | 8:30 a.m. |
| Course Support | 8:30 a.m. | 4 p.m. |
| Social Gathering | 4 p.m. | |
| Saturday | ||
| Rider Check-In | 8 a.m. | 8:30 a.m. |
| Course Support | 8:30 a.m. | 4 p.m. |
| Social Gathering at Pine Near Commons | 5 p.m. | |
| Sunday | ||
| Rider Check-In | 8 a.m. | 8:30 a.m. |
| Course Support | 8:30 a.m. | 4 p.m. |
Friday | Thompson Road – Aspen Lake – Winthrop Trail
The first day offers a diverse taste of gravel riding, showcasing three distinct types of terrain. Departing from downtown Winthrop and crossing the Methow River, the route ascends Twin Lakes Road towards Patterson Lake. Shortly before reaching the lake, the shorter loop option branches off down Elbow Coulee. The full loop circumnavigates Patterson Lake before tackling the renowned Thompson Road Nordic Ski Trail. This section, a local favorite for off-road biking during snow-free months, follows a scenic ridge descending from Sun Mountain. The route then transitions onto Twisp River Road, passing Elbow Coulee and ascending Frost Road towards Aspen Lake, before looping back to Patterson Lake and retracing the Winthrop Trail back to town. This varied terrain provides an excellent introduction to gravel riding in the Methow Valley, curated by the Cascade Bike Club.
Saturday | Pearrygin Lake – Loup Loup – Finley Canyon – Balky Hill
While the hills east of Winthrop may appear gentler, the Saturday route is a testament to challenging and rewarding riding. Winding through ridges and valleys, the route gradually climbs to Loup Loup Pass, a popular winter ski destination that transforms into snow-free alpine woodland by June. The descent offers multiple route options, each revealing unique aspects of the landscape.
Riders can choose to traverse past burn zones from previous years and explore Finley Canyon, incorporating stretches of traditional roadways before diverting onto Balky Hill for a descent to the paved Eastside Road return. Alternatively, the Bear Creek turn offers a single-track option leading back to Pearrygin Lake, followed by a picturesque downhill cruise to the finish. This day highlights the adventurous spirit of Cascade Bike Club rides.
Sunday | Cub Creek – Wolf Creek
The final day features a shorter but equally stunning 42-mile route. Prepare for forested dirt road climbs along Cub Creek, ascending to the 4700′ high point of Banker Pass. The return journey descends along Goat Creek, followed by switchbacks down the ridge north of the Winthrop Valley, ultimately connecting to the beloved Methow Community Trail. This route encapsulates the scenic beauty and varied terrain that Cascade Bike Club events are known for.
Inclusion and Community Commitment
The Cascade Bike Club welcomes everyone to its events. We are dedicated to fostering and celebrating diversity within the bicycling community. Our aim is to provide safe and inclusive spaces at start lines, finish lines, and designated rest stops for all participants. We encourage you to review our commitment to anti-racism and our participant code of conduct and grievance policy.
We acknowledge that our rides take place on native land. The Cascade Bike Club’s offices are situated on the traditional lands of the Duwamish People, the original inhabitants of Seattle, past and present.
In accordance with Federal law and U.S. Department of Agriculture policy, the Cascade Bike Club operates without discrimination based on race, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability. (Note: not all prohibited bases apply to all programs.) To file a complaint of discrimination, please contact USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, Room 326-W, Whitten Building, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, D.C. 20250-9410 or call (202) 720-5964 (voice and TDD). USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.
The Cascade Bike Club’s tour operates under a special use permit granted by the Okanogan Wenatchee National Forest, underscoring our commitment to responsible and sustainable event practices.
Food, Refreshments, and Social Breaks
Light snacks will be available at the morning check-in to fuel you up before each day’s ride.
A satisfying lunch is provided, featuring fresh fruit, a variety of sandwiches (including gluten-free and vegan options), chips, and an assortment of snacks and beverages. The Cascade Bike Club ensures that dietary needs are accommodated to keep all riders energized.
Additional water and snack stations will be strategically placed along the routes as needed, ensuring you stay hydrated and fueled throughout your gravel adventure.
Join the Cascade Bike Club for social gatherings at local establishments on Friday and Saturday evenings. These informal gatherings are a perfect opportunity to connect with fellow riders, share stories, and enjoy the Winthrop community.
Accommodation Options
Partnering Hotel & Campgrounds
Details regarding partnering hotels and campgrounds will be provided soon. The Cascade Bike Club is working to secure preferred rates and convenient options for participants.
Recommended Stays
Winthrop and the Methow Valley offer a range of lodging options to suit various preferences and budgets. From cozy cabins to charming inns, you’ll find the perfect place to relax after a day of gravel riding. Explore local listings for recommended stays.
Camping Options
For those who prefer to camp, the Methow Valley provides numerous camping opportunities. Campers should be prepared for potential temperature variations, with cold nights and warm days typical in June. Be sure to check campground availability and reservation requirements.
Unique Local Stays
Consider exploring unique local stays for a memorable experience in the Methow Valley. Options may include yurts, glamping sites, or boutique accommodations that offer a distinctive flavor of the region. The Cascade Bike Club encourages you to explore and discover the perfect lodging to complement your gravel riding adventure.
Ride Support System
This event is fully supported by dedicated Cascade Bike Club staff and volunteers, many of whom are proud Winthrop locals, bringing valuable local knowledge and expertise to the event.
Rider check-in is mandatory each morning, at lunch, and at the end of the riding day. This crucial safety protocol ensures that the Cascade Bike Club knows everyone has returned safely from the trails and forest roads, particularly important as many sections of the route are outside of cell phone service coverage.
Support and gear (SAG) vehicles will be present along the route and can be dispatched by calling the ride support hotline. SAG vehicles are equipped to transport riders and most bike models in case of mechanical issues or minor medical events. In the event of a life-threatening emergency, always call 911 immediately. Outriders and Cascade Bike Club staff will also be present on bikes along the route to provide on-the-ground support and assistance.
Weather Preparedness
June weather in Winthrop is notoriously variable and can bring a mix of conditions: rain, snow, intense heat, and abundant sunshine. Be prepared for significant temperature fluctuations between morning and midday.
Loup Loup Campground, the high point on Day 2, sits at a higher elevation and can experience drastically different weather conditions compared to the start location. In 2024, riders encountered snowfall (which melted on the ground) and temperatures in the low 30s Fahrenheit. In 2023, conversely, very high temperatures prevailed.
Layering is key! Wear or bring layers that you can easily access and adjust while riding. The Cascade Bike Club recommends carrying a medium-sized bag on your bike to accommodate extra snacks, a small first-aid kit, additional layers, and a third water bottle or drink.
Ensure your bike is tuned up and in excellent condition for gravel and road riding. Essential preparations include front and rear lights, backup batteries, fenders, serviced brakes, and a clean chain. Proper bike maintenance is crucial for a safe and enjoyable Cascade Bike Club gravel event experience.
E-Bike Policy
E-bikes are permitted on most of this ride, allowing more cyclists to enjoy the challenge and beauty of gravel riding. The Cascade Bike Club is currently exploring alternative routes for e-bikes on specific sections where necessary. Please note that the Methow Community Trail, Winthrop Trail, and Pearrygin Single Track prohibit e-bikes of all classes. However, alternative paved road routes, supported by SAG vehicles, will ensure e-bike riders experience the vast majority of the 144-mile tour alongside non-e-bike participants. E-bike riders with the Cascade Bike Club will enjoy a comparable and fulfilling gravel adventure.
Training Recommendations
The Cascade Training Series is a comprehensive 12-week ride series designed to prepare you for long-distance and multi-day cycling events like this gravel ride. Suitable for riders of all paces, this series focuses on building strength, endurance, and confidence. Participating in the Cascade Training Series is an excellent way to enhance your preparation for the Cascade Bike Club gravel event.
To further assist your training, the Cascade Bike Club offers an extensive schedule of Free Group Rides in the Puget Sound area. Explore these rides to find options that align with your schedule, desired pace, and distance goals. These group rides provide valuable training miles and the opportunity to connect with the Cascade Bike Club cycling community.
