Dixie Mountain “Easy” Gravel Ride

Description

Roughly equivalent to the regular Wednesday Roller Coaster road ride in terms of difficulty. Some long-ish climbs but no especially painful pitches, and grin-inducing descents on the backside guaranteed. A Portland-area classic. Stellar views along with some especially lovely deep woods in places.

Snack breaks at the Grange Hall mile 11, and at the gate at mile 19. Final regroup at the start of pavement at mile 24. We will generally try to stay together as a loose group, pausing at major intersections to keep everyone within view. Drafting is not allowed on the dirt sections, to allow visibility of hazards and assure adequate maneuvering space.

The usual gravel ride boilerplate applies: A gravel bike or hardtail mountain bike is a must. Knobby 42’s or larger recommended, skilled riders can do it on 35’s. Come with your sense of adventure along with everything you need to be self-sufficient in the way of water (bring plenty, no refills on-route), food/snacks (bring plenty), tools, and spares. You must have the route loaded into your GPS device or phone - visualize finding yourself alone in the boonies with a flat, Murphy’s Law loves this sort of stuff. We will regroup at the tops of big climbs or at major turns etc. The pace is listed as brisk and it will be challenging with 2487 feet of climbing. Email me with any questions.

Pace: Will be "brisk", but as this is a gravel ride, we won't be riding 15-17 mph as the road metric indicates.

Please read the Covid protocols before attending the ride. https://portlandbicyclingclub.com/protocols/