Perm # 2208 - A River Runs Through It 202K

Due to the likelihood of high heat, the distance between controls, and the exposure to sun (ie. lack of shade) on many of the roads you will be traversing,  all riders are strongly encouraged to carry three water bottles.  

This route features roads that are not often explored on brevets.

It first heads north over the Columbia River and visits the Maryhill Stonehenge Memorial for an information control.  Look to the southwest for great views of Mt. Hood!

Back over the bridge at Biggs Junction at mile 25 you will find your LAST opportunity for water until Mile 46.  Riders are STRONGLY encouraged to fill all three water bottles at this location, as there is a lot of climbing in those intervening 21 miles.  On a hot day, you will go through that water quickly.

The climb up Fulton Canyon Road is long, but well graded.  And nearly devoid of cars!  Along the way you'll be treated to fantastic scenery.

Climbing Fulton Canyon Rd.

The old church at Locust Grove

Junction of Fulton Canyon & Van Gilder

The next control is in Moro.   Those with lots of time in the bank may opt for the Cafe.   Those with less time may opt for the convenience store, with a pit stop in the public restrooms in the park across the Street.

Moro.

Grass Valley is just 10 miles down the road.  Although not a control, riders are encouraged to top up their water bottles, as the next opportunity is not until Tygh Valley, which is another 30+ miles and at least one good climb away.

After some amazing views of the Mt. Hood and Mt Jefferson, the roads drops down an incredibly twisty, seriously fun canyon road, through Buck Hollow and down to the Deschutes River at Sherar's Bridge.

Mt Hood

The Deschutes River near Sherar's Bridge

A climb out of the canyon will take riders to the next control at Tygh Valley.   Once again, please fill all three of your bottles, as the climb up Tygh Ridge is long.  Most riders will do this climb in mid-afternoon when the temps will reach their highest.   If you are lucky. you will see elk on the slopes to your right as you climb.

Once you summit Tygh Ridge at mile 97, pat yourself on the back.   You've done nearly all of the climbing there is to be done!   Most of the rest of the ride is downhill, with just 600 feet left to do over the remaining 29 miles.

A rippin' descent on Dufur Gap Rd will take you to an info control (keep an eye on your odometer and don't miss it!) and then on into Dufur.   Kramer's Market will be a welcome refuge on a hot day with lots of tasty options for food and drink.

Ask not what Dufur can do fer you.  Ask what you can do fer Dufur.

Finally, 20 miles of (mostly) downhill backroads will take you back to The Dalles.

If you travel to The Dalles and need a place to stay before or after the ride, Cousins is always a great option,with a convenient Denny's a short walk away for an early a.m. breakfast.

++++

Again, due to the likelihood of high heat, the distance between controls, and the exposure to sun (ie. lack of shade) on many of the roads you will be traversing,  you are strongly encouraged to carry three water bottles.

Route: http://ridewithgps.com/routes/3882435