[VBC Buddies] Self Supported Summer/Fall Cycling Tours

[RICHARD LUETKENHAUS]

I'm planning on doing several self supported cycling tours this year and would like to hear from cycle tourists who might be interested in planning/scheduling one or more tours.  Some of the tours I'm considering are:

1.  The first 3 segments of Adventure Cycling Sierra Cascades Bicycle Route as three separate tours.  Section 1 - Sumas WA (Canadian border) to the Columbia Gorge mostly on the East side of the Cascades.  Section 2 - from Vancouver to Hood River and then South over Mt Hood to Detroit Lake, Sisters, Bend, Crater Lake and Ashland.  Section 3 - from Ashland to Mt Shasta and Truckee, CA.  These tours are all on paved roads essentially following the Pacific Crest trail Route.  Each section 7 - 10 days.  I may only do one section this year depending on other choices.  These tour segments include some difficult climbs and areas with limited services.  Recommended for experienced cycle tourists.

2.  Circle loop from Vancouver around Mt St. Helens (possibly extended to include Mt Rainier) to Swift Reservoir, the Columbia Gorge and back to Vancouver (5 - 7 days depending on route chosen).

3.  Tour of the Willamette Valley following the Oregon State Bicycle routes to Cottage Grove.  Consider adding the covered bridges tour and other day rides along the way.  This tour could be a series hub and spoke rides with vehicle support -- drive to a campsite, do 1 or more day rides, drive to another campsite, etc.  (limit 5 riders with my vehicle).

4.  Hub and spoke rides from Deception Pass State Park (limit 5 riders with my vehicle).  Possible day tours include Whidbey Island, several of the San Juan islands, Skagit River Valley, Bellingham. (5 - 7 days depending on # of day rides).

Other ride suggestions are welcome. These tours will not conflict with the Columbia River Gorge 4 day tour.  If interested, please contact me for additional information.

Dick Luetkenhaus
Rleut42 at msn.com<mailto:Rleut42 at msn.com>