North Cascade National Park and Beyond

North America » United States
May 18th 2021

Published: May 19th 2021

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becsher

Start of day 3 from Ross Lake area

Fall, Winter and Spring weather today as we made our way through the North Cascade National Park and into the Cascade National Forest and beyond. We began our day just past the Ross Dam Overlook in the National Park where we left off yesterday and headed through the park with temperatures in lower 30’s and rain. It rained heavy all night at the hotel we were at in Marblemount and they were calling for snow at the higher elevations. Uphill and then some more uphill and then around the corner it was more uphill. Even though the temperatures were cold and rainy, I was sweating trying to make it up the mountain. The magnificent scenery kept me inspired the whole way. God gave me good health to do this ride and His beautiful handiwork to admire along the way. As we gained altitude, the rain changed to snow and there was still a lot of snow on the ground as we climbed the passes. I was not sure I could make it to the top but Phil and Barry encouraged me the entire way. Kevin was wonderful to drive up a couple of miles and encourage me as I passed or

Climbing and climbing

give me a snack or water. Twice I did have to get into the car with him and take my shoes off to warm my feet on the heater. We made it to the top of Washington Pass at 5,476 feet and we were elated. The snow really started to pick up so we took pictures and headed down from the pass. The snow was hitting me in the face and the wind was so cold but I knew the further down the mountain we traveled it would be warmer. I watch the guys on the Tour de France descending mountains and thought how much fun that would be…however it was scary!!!! I rode my brakes down that steep grade for miles. Never have I descended a mountain this high. Gale, Margaret, and Kevin were waiting for us about 5 miles into our descent and had lunch for us. Gale and Phil have an RV so Gale made lunch and we were able to warm up in the RV for a little while. Back on the rode we had about another 20 miles of welcomed downhill. We arrived at our destination for the night Winthrop, WA. I just want to

Still climbing

say I love this town. It looks like Dodge City in old west days. We arrived a little late to tour the town so we will go in the morning before we head out on the bikes. Stopped at a great bike shop here and bought some supplies. I want to thank my sister for the bike jacket she gave me…boy was it warm and it came in handy…Thanks Sis! Today we rode 53.4 miles, gained 4,272 feet in elevation, maximum grade was 8%, spent 3 hours and 30 minutes ascending, 1 hour and 30 minutes descending and average speed was 10.6 mph.

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