[RBW] Re: San Juan Islands Tour Advice
As a West Seattleite I will say that there can be some good riding from Southworth to Port Orchard but I think the Interurban trail to Whibey Island was a good choice by Adam as it more directly gets them to good Island riding. Enjoy Adam On Tuesday, June 4, 2013 9:15:09 PM UTC-7, samh wrote: I would love to hear any feedback about our routes that would be helpful as well What's your thinking on not taking the ferry west from Seattle? Is there actually a good route north from Seattle? -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups RBW Owners Bunch group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to rbw-owners-bunch+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To post to this group, send email to rbw-owners-bunch@googlegroups.com. Visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/rbw-owners-bunch?hl=en-US. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out.
[RBW] Re: San Juan Islands Tour Advice
On Monday, May 13, 2013 5:42:32 PM UTC-7, Adam wrote: Greetings All, Planning a tour this summer for my wife and I up to the San Juan Islands. We have about two weeks to spend on my Hillborne and her Atlantis exploring the area. We live in Berkeley and are planning to take the amtrak up and then ferry and cycle around. I know there are a bunch of NorWesters on this list and wanted to ask some advice. We'll likely try to spend at least a day or two in Portland on our way back as well. Is the Seattle Amtrak the best station to get off? If so, does this look like a good route to get to the ferry? http://goo.gl/maps/uxOqM Any campsites along that route that are recommended? Any words of wisdom about the islands themselves (things we must see/avoid)? Looking forward to sharing images with the list when we return and also open to any recommendations as they emerge. Cheers, Adam -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups RBW Owners Bunch group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to rbw-owners-bunch+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To post to this group, send email to rbw-owners-bunch@googlegroups.com. Visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/rbw-owners-bunch?hl=en-US. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out.
[RBW] Re: San Juan Islands Tour Advice
Greetings All, Wanted to update you all about how our plans are proceeding. We're planning to take the train up to Seattle and ride to Anacortes via this route- http://goo.gl/maps/18zd5. From there we'll ferry and ride around the various San Juan islands for a few days. Departing from the islands we're planning to catch the train from Burlington to Tacoma. From Tacoma we've got this route- *http://goo.gl/maps/jpGQn* http://goo.gl/maps/jpGQn inspired by a similar route posted by Jan Heine. We'll arrive in Portland on either the 17th or 18th of July and have two or three nights booked in the Hawthorne Hostel. I would love to hear any feedback about our routes that would be helpful as well as any ideas of fun things we could get into while in Portland on the 18th or 19th. Warm regards, Adam -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups RBW Owners Bunch group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to rbw-owners-bunch+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To post to this group, send email to rbw-owners-bunch@googlegroups.com. Visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/rbw-owners-bunch?hl=en-US. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out.
[RBW] Re: San Juan Islands Tour Advice
I would love to hear any feedback about our routes that would be helpful as well What's your thinking on not taking the ferry west from Seattle? Is there actually a good route north from Seattle? -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups RBW Owners Bunch group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to rbw-owners-bunch+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To post to this group, send email to rbw-owners-bunch@googlegroups.com. Visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/rbw-owners-bunch?hl=en-US. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out.
[RBW] Re: San Juan Islands Tour Advice
I wouldn't skip Orcas either - Mountain Lake in Moran State Park is beautiful, and an easy ride from the campground if that's where you're staying (pay for rentals at Cascade Lake). You can rent a boat there, and paddle around for a few hours. There's a fun rope swing on the shore, and a small island (an island...in a lake... on an island!) worth tying up on for a picnic or something. My family was there last summer, and we were nearly alone on a beautiful summer day. There's also fun riding on the fire roads/trails around Mount Constitution, and not a single wine bar or BMW in sight. Doe Bay Resort is nice too, quiet and out of the way, with a wide range of accommodations available from camping to dorm-style to cabins. That having been said, Lopez is a great place to ride - have fun! Andrew -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups RBW Owners Bunch group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to rbw-owners-bunch+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To post to this group, send email to rbw-owners-bunch@googlegroups.com. Visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/rbw-owners-bunch?hl=en-US. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out.
[RBW] Re: San Juan Islands Tour Advice
I'll second what John has to say about Amtrak. Note that the Coast Starlight and all other amtrak long-distance trains (as far as I can remember) still requires you to box your bicycles for transport. The Cascades service trains (numbering in the 500s) have built-in bike racks in the baggage cars where the attendant will hang bikes by the front wheel, making getting on and off far easier. So it might make sense to ride to a larger city you intend on returning to (Portland or Seattle), spending a few hours exploring, and catching local Cascades service to wherever you want to get closer to. At fares hovering around $20-$30, it's stupid cheap. Like Andy said, let us know when you're in PDX! We'll send you back south drunk, fat, and happy, in that order. Cheers cc -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups RBW Owners Bunch group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to rbw-owners-bunch+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To post to this group, send email to rbw-owners-bunch@googlegroups.com. Visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/rbw-owners-bunch?hl=en-US. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out.
[RBW] Re: San Juan Islands Tour Advice
I am so excited about our trip and will be sure to reply to this thread as the trip approaches to let you all know about the route we've chosen and also to maybe meet some of you Portland riv riders. What a generous bunch this is. Thanks all, Adam On Wednesday, May 15, 2013 7:32:50 PM UTC-7, Jan Heine wrote: All I can tell you is that several park rangers mentioned this to me. Jan Heine Editor Bicycle Quarterly http://www.bikequarterly.com Follow our blog at http://janheine.wordpress.com/ On Wednesday, May 15, 2013 9:03:14 AM UTC-7, shawn m. wrote: One question, Jan. You mentioned that WA State Parks can't turn you away if you arrived non-motorized. I've heard that before, but it's always been apocryphal; I've never been able to find an explicit statement of that as policy. Do you have a link or something? I BELIEVE that it's true -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups RBW Owners Bunch group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to rbw-owners-bunch+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To post to this group, send email to rbw-owners-bunch@googlegroups.com. Visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/rbw-owners-bunch?hl=en-US. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out.
[RBW] Re: San Juan Islands Tour Advice
Thanks Patrick. There's no question, that's the route I would take from Seattle going North. You are away from the I5 corridor and the scenery of the Olympic range is supposed to be spectacular--and you don't have to go near any big towns. And touring near water and getting to take ferry rides is magical. On Wednesday, May 15, 2013 1:37:53 PM UTC-6, Deacon Patrick wrote: Sam, here is the Pacific Coast info. You can see more info under details for each section. http://www.adventurecycling.org/routes-and-maps/adventure-cycling-route-network/pacific-coast/ With abandon, Patrick -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups RBW Owners Bunch group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to rbw-owners-bunch+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To post to this group, send email to rbw-owners-bunch@googlegroups.com. Visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/rbw-owners-bunch?hl=en-US. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out.
[RBW] Re: San Juan Islands Tour Advice
My wife worked at Friday Harbor Labs one summer and sometimes she would hitch a ride on this back to Port Townsend. http://www.pugetsoundexpress.com/whale-watching-and-wildlife-tours/san-juan-island-ferry/ This has nothing to do with your Seattle to Anacortes route but others have noted the bike riding advantages on the west side of Puget Sound. On Monday, May 13, 2013 5:42:32 PM UTC-7, Adam wrote: Greetings All, Planning a tour this summer for my wife and I up to the San Juan Islands. We have about two weeks to spend on my Hillborne and her Atlantis exploring the area. We live in Berkeley and are planning to take the amtrak up and then ferry and cycle around. I know there are a bunch of NorWesters on this list and wanted to ask some advice. We'll likely try to spend at least a day or two in Portland on our way back as well. Is the Seattle Amtrak the best station to get off? If so, does this look like a good route to get to the ferry? http://goo.gl/maps/uxOqM Any campsites along that route that are recommended? Any words of wisdom about the islands themselves (things we must see/avoid)? Looking forward to sharing images with the list when we return and also open to any recommendations as they emerge. Cheers, Adam -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups RBW Owners Bunch group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to rbw-owners-bunch+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To post to this group, send email to rbw-owners-bunch@googlegroups.com. Visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/rbw-owners-bunch?hl=en-US. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out.
[RBW] Re: San Juan Islands Tour Advice
One question, Jan. You mentioned that WA State Parks can't turn you away if you arrived non-motorized. I've heard that before, but it's always been apocryphal; I've never been able to find an explicit statement of that as policy. Do you have a link or something? I BELIEVE that it's true, but I've always had this nagging fear that an overworked ranger or campground host is going to try to move me along after a long day in the saddle... As for the San Juans, I wouldn't skip Orcas just because it's summer if that was the only time I could visit. If you you're coming from out of the area, and don't get up here often, I say check it out. As noted, and in more detail than I'll indulge in, there are a number of ways to piece together a route. That said, IMHO the I-5 corridor leaves much to be desired, Centennial Trail notwithstanding. If it were my trip (and it might be, come September), I'd Amtrack to Seattle, hop the Ferry to Bainbridge Island (the terminal is about 4 blocks from the train station), ride to Port Townsend, Ferry to Whidbey, ride to Anacortes and catch the island hopper to the islands. Bear in mind that if you decide to take in Victoria, BC, you'll have to depart from Anacortes directly, but it's totally worth it; both for Victoria and the ferry ride. Cheers, Shawn Seattle, WA On Tuesday, May 14, 2013 4:53:46 PM UTC-7, Jan Heine wrote: There is some really good advice here. Generally, each island is unlikely to keep you occupied cycling for more than 1-2 days. Orcas indeed is best avoided in the summer. A nice route would be to go from Seattle via Bainbridge Island to Pt. Townsend. The town is worth a trip by itself. From there, head over to Whidbey Island, which means you avoid the busy southern part. Then Anacortes and the islands. On the way back, go inland and take the old RSVP (an organized ride by the Cascade Bike Club) back to Seattle. Seattle - Pt. Townsend is 60 miles or a day - it's quite hilly if you take back roads. Pt. Townsend to Anacortes is half a day. Anacortes - Seattle via the inland route is 100 miles, but not very hilly. That round-trip might occupy you for 10-14 days if you take your time and take in the sights. Plan a day in Pt. Townsend. If you run out of stuff to do, consider checking out the Canadian Gulf Islands. I found them lovely, and much less crowded. Make sure you seek out good backroads on the legs off the San Juan islands. The main roads aren't much fun for cycling. Final note: WA State Parks cannot turn you away if you arrive non-motorized, so they'll let you camp somewhere even if the campground is full and you have no reservation. Final note 2: Ferries can be seriously behind schedule in the summer, but at least you'll get on with your bike, where cars may have to wait for a ferry or two until they get to the front of the line. Jan Heine Editor Bicycle Quarterly http://www.bikequarterly.com Follow our blog at http://janheine.wordpress.com/ -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups RBW Owners Bunch group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to rbw-owners-bunch+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To post to this group, send email to rbw-owners-bunch@googlegroups.com. Visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/rbw-owners-bunch?hl=en-US. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out.
[RBW] Re: San Juan Islands Tour Advice
Oh man, I want to go touring! Any idea where does the ACA route goes? Does it hug the east side of all those islands? On Wednesday, May 15, 2013 10:03:14 AM UTC-6, shawn m. wrote: As for the San Juans, I wouldn't skip Orcas just because it's summer if that was the only time I could visit. If you you're coming from out of the area, and don't get up here often, I say check it out. As noted, and in more detail than I'll indulge in, there are a number of ways to piece together a route. That said, IMHO the I-5 corridor leaves much to be desired, Centennial Trail notwithstanding. If it were my trip (and it might be, come September), I'd Amtrack to Seattle, hop the Ferry to Bainbridge Island (the terminal is about 4 blocks from the train station), ride to Port Townsend, Ferry to Whidbey, ride to Anacortes and catch the island hopper to the islands. Bear in mind that if you decide to take in Victoria, BC, you'll have to depart from Anacortes directly, but it's totally worth it; both for Victoria and the ferry ride. Cheers, Shawn Seattle, WA On Tuesday, May 14, 2013 4:53:46 PM UTC-7, Jan Heine wrote: There is some really good advice here. Generally, each island is unlikely to keep you occupied cycling for more than 1-2 days. Orcas indeed is best avoided in the summer. A nice route would be to go from Seattle via Bainbridge Island to Pt. Townsend. The town is worth a trip by itself. From there, head over to Whidbey Island, which means you avoid the busy southern part. Then Anacortes and the islands. On the way back, go inland and take the old RSVP (an organized ride by the Cascade Bike Club) back to Seattle. Seattle - Pt. Townsend is 60 miles or a day - it's quite hilly if you take back roads. Pt. Townsend to Anacortes is half a day. Anacortes - Seattle via the inland route is 100 miles, but not very hilly. That round-trip might occupy you for 10-14 days if you take your time and take in the sights. Plan a day in Pt. Townsend. If you run out of stuff to do, consider checking out the Canadian Gulf Islands. I found them lovely, and much less crowded. Make sure you seek out good backroads on the legs off the San Juan islands. The main roads aren't much fun for cycling. Final note: WA State Parks cannot turn you away if you arrive non-motorized, so they'll let you camp somewhere even if the campground is full and you have no reservation. Final note 2: Ferries can be seriously behind schedule in the summer, but at least you'll get on with your bike, where cars may have to wait for a ferry or two until they get to the front of the line. Jan Heine Editor Bicycle Quarterly http://www.bikequarterly.com Follow our blog at http://janheine.wordpress.com/ -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups RBW Owners Bunch group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to rbw-owners-bunch+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To post to this group, send email to rbw-owners-bunch@googlegroups.com. Visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/rbw-owners-bunch?hl=en-US. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out.
[RBW] Re: San Juan Islands Tour Advice
Sam, here is the Pacific Coast info. You can see more info under details for each section. http://www.adventurecycling.org/routes-and-maps/adventure-cycling-route-network/pacific-coast/ With abandon, Patrick -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups RBW Owners Bunch group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to rbw-owners-bunch+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To post to this group, send email to rbw-owners-bunch@googlegroups.com. Visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/rbw-owners-bunch?hl=en-US. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out.
[RBW] Re: San Juan Islands Tour Advice
Here is the complete network map of Adventure Cycling's routes: http://www.adventurecycling.org/tasks/render/file/index.cfm?fileid=DEAF1E72-CBF7-4E83-8F0A0B4605CA2014 With abandon, Patrick -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups RBW Owners Bunch group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to rbw-owners-bunch+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To post to this group, send email to rbw-owners-bunch@googlegroups.com. Visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/rbw-owners-bunch?hl=en-US. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out.
[RBW] Re: San Juan Islands Tour Advice
The Anacortes - Sydney ferry to Victoria does make a stop in Friday Harbor. Once a day. +1 for Victoria. You can take the Lochside trail from Sidney to Victoria, and the Galloping Goose trail from Victoria to Sooke Potholes Provincial Park/campground. Pictures prove anyone can ride the Goose. *http://tinyurl.com/bsf4vkz* Nick W. On Wednesday, May 15, 2013 9:03:14 AM UTC-7, shawn m. wrote: Bear in mind that if you decide to take in Victoria, BC, you'll have to depart from Anacortes directly, but it's totally worth it; both for Victoria and the ferry ride. -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups RBW Owners Bunch group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to rbw-owners-bunch+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To post to this group, send email to rbw-owners-bunch@googlegroups.com. Visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/rbw-owners-bunch?hl=en-US. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out.
[RBW] Re: San Juan Islands Tour Advice
All I can tell you is that several park rangers mentioned this to me. Jan Heine Editor Bicycle Quarterly http://www.bikequarterly.com Follow our blog at http://janheine.wordpress.com/ On Wednesday, May 15, 2013 9:03:14 AM UTC-7, shawn m. wrote: One question, Jan. You mentioned that WA State Parks can't turn you away if you arrived non-motorized. I've heard that before, but it's always been apocryphal; I've never been able to find an explicit statement of that as policy. Do you have a link or something? I BELIEVE that it's true -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups RBW Owners Bunch group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to rbw-owners-bunch+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To post to this group, send email to rbw-owners-bunch@googlegroups.com. Visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/rbw-owners-bunch?hl=en-US. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out.
[RBW] Re: San Juan Islands Tour Advice
Although it's not one of the San Juan Islands, Whidbey, just North of Seattle, is a nice island to cycle, and on the way to the islands. This might be worth consideration. When I toured the islands, I took Amtrak from Portland to Seattle and rode from Seattle to the Mukilteo Ferry (just north of Edmonds, I believe), where had a short trip across to Whidbey at Clinton. Riding the length of Whidbey in one day is easy (I believe it's 40 miles long) and there is good camping on the North end at Deception Pass. Or you can continue across Deception Pass, off the island, and roll into Anacortes for the ferry to the real San Juan islands. If you've got the time, I recommend Whidbey as part of your adventure. If you do ride Whidbey, stay off the main North-South road, and keep to the edges. Less traffic and more sights. On my return, I rode from Orcas Island to a friend's house up near Mt. Baker in one long day. The next morning, I rode down (about 15 miles) to the Amtrak station just outside of Bellingham and took the train back to Portland. It's a great way to save time on a tour and avoid the less spectacular riding. Make use of Amtrak wherever possible. It's fairly cheap, bringing bikes on board is easy, and you can save time to ride the places you really want to ride. John On Monday, May 13, 2013 5:42:32 PM UTC-7, Adam wrote: Greetings All, Planning a tour this summer for my wife and I up to the San Juan Islands. We have about two weeks to spend on my Hillborne and her Atlantis exploring the area. We live in Berkeley and are planning to take the amtrak up and then ferry and cycle around. I know there are a bunch of NorWesters on this list and wanted to ask some advice. We'll likely try to spend at least a day or two in Portland on our way back as well. Is the Seattle Amtrak the best station to get off? If so, does this look like a good route to get to the ferry? http://goo.gl/maps/uxOqM Any campsites along that route that are recommended? Any words of wisdom about the islands themselves (things we must see/avoid)? Looking forward to sharing images with the list when we return and also open to any recommendations as they emerge. Cheers, Adam -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups RBW Owners Bunch group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to rbw-owners-bunch+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To post to this group, send email to rbw-owners-bunch@googlegroups.com. Visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/rbw-owners-bunch?hl=en-US. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out.
[RBW] Re: San Juan Islands Tour Advice
Hi Adam, I second what John said about using the Mukilteo/Clinton ferry and including Whidbey Island. There are a couple cool forts (turned state parks) that were built as civil defense during WW2. There's camping at a couple places along the length of Whidbey, so you could split the day a variety of ways. I didn't look at every turn... but something like thishttps://maps.google.com/maps?saddr=Seattle+amtrak+stationdaddr=Central+Market,+Westminster+Way+North,+Shoreline,+WA+to:Ferry+Traffic,+Mukilteo,+WA+to:Clinton+-+Mukilteo+Ferry+Toll+Booth,+Washington+525,+Clinton,+WA+to:Anacortes+Ferry+Terminal,+Anacortes,+WAhl=ensll=48.111099,-122.310791sspn=1.841216,4.581299geocode=FYJM1gIdAGW1-CHoPckS9CTHfSkpyAJXu2qQVDHoPckS9CTHfQ%3BFYJ_2AIdYha1-CEUUC--5wmv3inDsXkZ3xCQVDEUUC--5wmv3g%3BFYiR2wIdb8e1-CmT4vHYkAGQVDGRp1Mw40L4_A%3BFWEJ3AIdLxC1-CGYe11aSO8Q1SlJXfreEf6PVDGYe11aSO8Q1Q%3BFXsm5AId9ROw-CkrVt2jDnmFVDHTGuRNIjZh0Aoq=Clintont=hgl=usdirflg=bmra=lsz=9lci=bike . Give a shout if you're in PDX, perhaps we can rally the troops and give you and yours a Riv welcome. --Smitty -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups RBW Owners Bunch group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to rbw-owners-bunch+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To post to this group, send email to rbw-owners-bunch@googlegroups.com. Visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/rbw-owners-bunch?hl=en-US. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out.
[RBW] Re: San Juan Islands Tour Advice
Hi, I'm from Seattle and have been biking and camping in the San Juans for 30+ years. I go every Summer for at least a week. Here are some random thoughts: I've never trained. Mount Vernon would definitely be a closer stop than Seattle assuming you can unload your bike. There are some bus/shuttle services from Mt Vernon to Anacortes also. Orcas is the most Californicated of the islands, then San Juan, then Lopez, then Shaw. I tend to avoid Orcas completely. I stay on Lopez. If you like wine and cheese and BMW X5s, Orcas might be fine for you. Whale watching on the West side of San Juan will make for the finest day of biking in your life if everything works out. It's a total crap shoot; sometimes the whales are there, sometimes not. When the whales are close in, it's magical. With the new rules for whale watching boats, I think you can see better from the shore than from a tour boat. Look for the web sites that list whale activity to get a rough idea before heading out. In any case the ride down the West side to Lime Kiln park is very pretty. Spencer Spit state park on Lopez is my fave camping. Good bike access and surprising how few folks hang out on the beach. The yachting types seem to stay on their boats except when they need to walk their dogs. Upright head has a nice sand beach and views of the Ferry lanes. Watmough Bight is a good day ride down to the south end and a beautiful setting. There's a good map from the chamber of commerce in Lopez Village. Public showers in Lopez village (24 hours?). Folks are impressed by the hills on San Juan and Orcas. Check the elevation profiles just to get an idea. 2 weeks would be a lot of time to spend in the San Juans. On islands like Lopez you can ride literally every road on the island in one day. I'd guess you'd be happy spending a week with time for PDX or Victoria supplements. Here's another way to do the San Juans, not my style, but interesting. http://janheine.wordpress.com/2013/04/30/an-impromptu-adventure/ Feel free to PM with questions. Ty Seattle 2000 Atlantis '69 Raleigh Professional On Monday, May 13, 2013 5:42:32 PM UTC-7, Adam wrote: Greetings All, Planning a tour this summer for my wife and I up to the San Juan Islands. We have about two weeks to spend on my Hillborne and her Atlantis exploring the area. We live in Berkeley and are planning to take the amtrak up and then ferry and cycle around. I know there are a bunch of NorWesters on this list and wanted to ask some advice. We'll likely try to spend at least a day or two in Portland on our way back as well. Is the Seattle Amtrak the best station to get off? If so, does this look like a good route to get to the ferry? http://goo.gl/maps/uxOqM Any campsites along that route that are recommended? Any words of wisdom about the islands themselves (things we must see/avoid)? Looking forward to sharing images with the list when we return and also open to any recommendations as they emerge. Cheers, Adam -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups RBW Owners Bunch group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to rbw-owners-bunch+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To post to this group, send email to rbw-owners-bunch@googlegroups.com. Visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/rbw-owners-bunch?hl=en-US. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out.
[RBW] Re: San Juan Islands Tour Advice
If so, does this look like a good route to get to the ferry? http://goo.gl/maps/uxOqM You gotta be kidding me! I rode from Bay View, which is just east of Anacortes, to Seattle in a day, taking the most direct route, and I was on surface streets the whole way--and the riding sucked. There's a trail??! -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups RBW Owners Bunch group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to rbw-owners-bunch+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To post to this group, send email to rbw-owners-bunch@googlegroups.com. Visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/rbw-owners-bunch?hl=en-US. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out.
[RBW] Re: San Juan Islands Tour Advice
Hi Ty, What's the camping situation like on the San Juans? Hiker/biker sites? Reservations? Price? Crowded? Thanks. On Tuesday, May 14, 2013 9:32:18 AM UTC-6, Ty Graham wrote: Hi, I'm from Seattle and have been biking and camping in the San Juans for 30+ years. I go every Summer for at least a week. Here are some random thoughts: I've never trained. Mount Vernon would definitely be a closer stop than Seattle assuming you can unload your bike. There are some bus/shuttle services from Mt Vernon to Anacortes also. Orcas is the most Californicated of the islands, then San Juan, then Lopez, then Shaw. I tend to avoid Orcas completely. I stay on Lopez. If you like wine and cheese and BMW X5s, Orcas might be fine for you. Whale watching on the West side of San Juan will make for the finest day of biking in your life if everything works out. It's a total crap shoot; sometimes the whales are there, sometimes not. When the whales are close in, it's magical. With the new rules for whale watching boats, I think you can see better from the shore than from a tour boat. Look for the web sites that list whale activity to get a rough idea before heading out. In any case the ride down the West side to Lime Kiln park is very pretty. Spencer Spit state park on Lopez is my fave camping. Good bike access and surprising how few folks hang out on the beach. The yachting types seem to stay on their boats except when they need to walk their dogs. Upright head has a nice sand beach and views of the Ferry lanes. Watmough Bight is a good day ride down to the south end and a beautiful setting. There's a good map from the chamber of commerce in Lopez Village. Public showers in Lopez village (24 hours?). Folks are impressed by the hills on San Juan and Orcas. Check the elevation profiles just to get an idea. 2 weeks would be a lot of time to spend in the San Juans. On islands like Lopez you can ride literally every road on the island in one day. I'd guess you'd be happy spending a week with time for PDX or Victoria supplements. Here's another way to do the San Juans, not my style, but interesting. http://janheine.wordpress.com/2013/04/30/an-impromptu-adventure/ Feel free to PM with questions. Ty Seattle 2000 Atlantis '69 Raleigh Professional On Monday, May 13, 2013 5:42:32 PM UTC-7, Adam wrote: Greetings All, Planning a tour this summer for my wife and I up to the San Juan Islands. We have about two weeks to spend on my Hillborne and her Atlantis exploring the area. We live in Berkeley and are planning to take the amtrak up and then ferry and cycle around. I know there are a bunch of NorWesters on this list and wanted to ask some advice. We'll likely try to spend at least a day or two in Portland on our way back as well. Is the Seattle Amtrak the best station to get off? If so, does this look like a good route to get to the ferry? http://goo.gl/maps/uxOqM Any campsites along that route that are recommended? Any words of wisdom about the islands themselves (things we must see/avoid)? Looking forward to sharing images with the list when we return and also open to any recommendations as they emerge. Cheers, Adam -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups RBW Owners Bunch group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to rbw-owners-bunch+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To post to this group, send email to rbw-owners-bunch@googlegroups.com. Visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/rbw-owners-bunch?hl=en-US. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out.
[RBW] Re: San Juan Islands Tour Advice
--If so, does this look like a good route to get to the ferry? Based on my riding on the Olympic Peninsula, albeit South, I would try to take the ferry across in Seattle and try to find a route North on the Olympic Peninsula. -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups RBW Owners Bunch group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to rbw-owners-bunch+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To post to this group, send email to rbw-owners-bunch@googlegroups.com. Visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/rbw-owners-bunch?hl=en-US. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out.
[RBW] Re: San Juan Islands Tour Advice
Hey, I think the Adventure Cycling Association's Pacific Coast route goes South from Anacortes along the Olympic Peninsula. You could take the ferry across from Seattle and hook up with that route. You should consider buying/borrowing the map for the first section of the Pacific Coast route, and see what it says about camping/lodging. ACA has a website with a forum where you can ask questions--if no one here has information about that route. On Tuesday, May 14, 2013 4:26:15 PM UTC-6, samh wrote: --If so, does this look like a good route to get to the ferry? Based on my riding on the Olympic Peninsula, albeit South, I would try to take the ferry across in Seattle and try to find a route North on the Olympic Peninsula. -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups RBW Owners Bunch group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to rbw-owners-bunch+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To post to this group, send email to rbw-owners-bunch@googlegroups.com. Visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/rbw-owners-bunch?hl=en-US. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out.
[RBW] Re: San Juan Islands Tour Advice
Just so you know, the ACA maps are very detailed. They list the services available in each town, e.g. libraries, post offices, bike shops; and they list the campgrounds and some hotels. And on the back of the map, there is a story about the history of the area. They are excellent maps, and the Pacific Coast route is a very popular route. -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups RBW Owners Bunch group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to rbw-owners-bunch+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To post to this group, send email to rbw-owners-bunch@googlegroups.com. Visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/rbw-owners-bunch?hl=en-US. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out.
[RBW] Re: San Juan Islands Tour Advice
Thanks all. There are some great resources listed above and I've got some maps to order and some planning to do. I am now thinking of taking the amtrak to mt. Vernon or Bellingham and spending around 5 days cycling and ferrying around the islands. From there we'll aim to ride to Portland and hopefully have a few days to explore the city. Really appreciate all the insight and experience of the riv riders up north. Cheers, Adam -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups RBW Owners Bunch group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to rbw-owners-bunch+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To post to this group, send email to rbw-owners-bunch@googlegroups.com. Visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/rbw-owners-bunch?hl=en-US. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out.
[RBW] Re: San Juan Islands Tour Advice
There is some really good advice here. Generally, each island is unlikely to keep you occupied cycling for more than 1-2 days. Orcas indeed is best avoided in the summer. A nice route would be to go from Seattle via Bainbridge Island to Pt. Townsend. The town is worth a trip by itself. From there, head over to Whidbey Island, which means you avoid the busy southern part. Then Anacortes and the islands. On the way back, go inland and take the old RSVP (an organized ride by the Cascade Bike Club) back to Seattle. Seattle - Pt. Townsend is 60 miles or a day - it's quite hilly if you take back roads. Pt. Townsend to Anacortes is half a day. Anacortes - Seattle via the inland route is 100 miles, but not very hilly. That round-trip might occupy you for 10-14 days if you take your time and take in the sights. Plan a day in Pt. Townsend. If you run out of stuff to do, consider checking out the Canadian Gulf Islands. I found them lovely, and much less crowded. Make sure you seek out good backroads on the legs off the San Juan islands. The main roads aren't much fun for cycling. Final note: WA State Parks cannot turn you away if you arrive non-motorized, so they'll let you camp somewhere even if the campground is full and you have no reservation. Final note 2: Ferries can be seriously behind schedule in the summer, but at least you'll get on with your bike, where cars may have to wait for a ferry or two until they get to the front of the line. Jan Heine Editor Bicycle Quarterly http://www.bikequarterly.com Follow our blog at http://janheine.wordpress.com/ -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups RBW Owners Bunch group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to rbw-owners-bunch+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To post to this group, send email to rbw-owners-bunch@googlegroups.com. Visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/rbw-owners-bunch?hl=en-US. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out.
[RBW] Re: San Juan Islands Tour Advice
Adam: Unless you plan to spend some time in Seattle (a wonderful thing to do), I'd stay on Amtrak a bit further north. You'd need to check where baggage service is currently available (meaning they stop long enough to unload bikes from the luggage car). A few years ago we planned a trip based on getting off the train at Mt Vernon as it was the closest station to Anacortes. Amtrak changed their service so that didn't work but it may have been temporary. I don't recall the exact distance but we figured train to Mt Vernon, ride to Anacortes, hop the ferry we'd still be on an island in plenty of time. As to the islands, give at least 2-3 days to San Juan and a couple to Orcas. Don't miss climbing Mt Constitution (easily accessible from Moran SP campground). Lopez is a nice day ride. If you're plans are still formative, consider going from San Juan to Sidney, BC, on Vancouver Island. It's a couple hour ride down mostly a dedicated trail to Victoria. From there we went to Port Angeles. Adventure Cycling has a good route down the western side of Puget Sound, and you can easily ride all the way to Portland. Portland's rail system is wonderful. I rode to the fairgrounds caught a train to downtown, avoiding the hassle of wandering around. You'll have a great trip. E-mail me direct with any specific questions. dougP On Monday, May 13, 2013 5:42:32 PM UTC-7, Adam wrote: Greetings All, Planning a tour this summer for my wife and I up to the San Juan Islands. We have about two weeks to spend on my Hillborne and her Atlantis exploring the area. We live in Berkeley and are planning to take the amtrak up and then ferry and cycle around. I know there are a bunch of NorWesters on this list and wanted to ask some advice. We'll likely try to spend at least a day or two in Portland on our way back as well. Is the Seattle Amtrak the best station to get off? If so, does this look like a good route to get to the ferry? http://goo.gl/maps/uxOqM Any campsites along that route that are recommended? Any words of wisdom about the islands themselves (things we must see/avoid)? Looking forward to sharing images with the list when we return and also open to any recommendations as they emerge. Cheers, Adam -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups RBW Owners Bunch group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to rbw-owners-bunch+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To post to this group, send email to rbw-owners-bunch@googlegroups.com. Visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/rbw-owners-bunch?hl=en-US. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out.
