Banks to Vernonia State Trail

"A thread of black in an emerald blanket, the Banks-Vernonia State Trail weaves its way between two peaceful towns in the foothills of Northwest Oregon’s Coast Range, less than an hour’s drive from Portland. Most of the 22-mile paved pathway is enveloped by the tall trees that attracted the lumber industry in the early 1900s—a verdant mix of Douglas fir, maple, cedar and alder." . . . . from the Rails to Trails Conservancy.

That description may be a bit much, but in any event the BVST is a wonderful resource. It even makes a great night ride, but we'll save that for the next meteor shower.

Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/29062214 The trip to Vernonia is a gentle, fairly steady climb which, of course becomes a gentle but really fun descent on the return. . It's nice to finish with a long, gentle downhill, but ride aware as some stretches of the trail are beginning to deteriorate and some bridge transitions can be pretty bumpy. IMPORTANT: There is one very short, steep descent and hill combination with a switchback or two on the way out (at about mile 8). On the way back the descent is fairly tricky and many people walk (at about mile 25). There is no shame in that. You won't be left behind!. The important thing is that you ride withing your abilities and confidence.\

Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v6CtssH35Mg

Attitude: Slow and social says it all. Figure somewhere in the area of 12-14 mph on the flats. If we split on the uphill, we will regroup so that no one will be left behind.

Ride Host: Paul Tidball 503-753-7000 We'll stop for a mid-ride social and lunch in Vernonia. Use the comments section or email or semaphore to arrange carpools.

Weather Cancellation Policy: This is Oregon, so we need to ride even if it's wet. That said, we'll cancel if there are epic amounts of rain, snow, for or mud predicted. But we don't ride in lightning, no lightning. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1BXsAay9e7A

Required Gear: HELMETS must be worn at all times while riding. This is a requirement and not a request.

Recommended Gear: Always bring plenty of water, on for energy, a flat repair kit, including a spare tube. A tool kit and small pump is good, but if you don’t have one there is usually someone on a group ride who does. Please check to see if someone has what you might need if you don't and be prepared to ride a bus or call a cab. (Not that we'll leave you by the road broken down, because that's not us). Carry a credit card and a little cash to buy refreshments or buy that bus ticket....

Mandatory for all riders: Obey traffic laws and remember you’re a representative of the greater cycling community and should conduct yourself that way on the road. Please represent us well. If you haven't read it lately please read the Oregon Bicyclist Manual (Oregon Bicycle Manual)

All riders must have their rides in good working order and must bring a flat kit & spare tube. If there is an issue with proper working or lack of equipment you may be asked to sit the ride out. Please ask for help if you are ill equipped prior to the ride. We will try to help!

All riders must be able to change a flat should they have one or have a way to get picked up (AAA, Tri-Met ticket, a friend…). There is often, but not always someone on the ride who knows how to help you change your tire, so plan accordingly.

Note: Your RSVP signifies that you agree to the following. Organizers, event hosts and other participants will not be held responsible for any individual at any event. Each rider rides at their own risk and is solely responsible for any damage to their equipment or themselves.

Final Note: RSVP’s cannot include a +1 or Guest. If you choose to bring a friend or family member, they themselves must sign up as a member of Go the Distance.

Final, final note. No ear buds. We want to be able to hear the baby Sasquatch that frequent the nearby forests

And no whining on the yacht.