Our new computer arrived yesterday, so my pictures of our recent trip to Hood River are languishing on the camera until I have it running. (Never mind the fact that I’m up to my ears preserving plums.) In the mean time, I thought I’d write up the beta on a killer bike ride we did on Sunday.

As you can see from the map, the ride starts and ends in Maryhill, above the Columbia River. This is a spectacular area with wineries, orchards, a full-size reconstruction of Stonehenge, views of Mt. Hood, Mt. Adams, Mt. St. Helens and Mt. Rainier, and rolling golden hills. If you have the time, the Maryhill Art Museum is supposed to be incredible.

After a brief warm-up on Hwy 14, the ride ascends five miles to Goldendale. It’s a tiny town situated on a high plateau. From there you descend an amazingly twisty road (watch out for bridge construction) to the town of Lyle and proceed back along the Columbia River to Maryhill. After 70 miles of riding, you will have climbed nearly 4,000 feet. Not bad!

Directions to Maryhill and route triptik are available by clicking here (must have Adobe Acrobat to view). If you’re getting to the start of the ride via I-5, it may be tempting to start in Lyle. If you do, it will be a long time until you reach Goldendale, so make sure you’re stocked up on Clif Bars and water.

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