Ironhorse Trail Bike Ride: Cle Elum to Thorp

Come out and ride a section of the Ironhorse Trail, between South Cle Elum and Thorp.

- The majority of this section of the trail runs along the Yakima River, with scenic views of the Yakima River Canyon, farmland, pastures, and two tunnels as you get to Thorp.

- The trail is mostly flat and gravel covered, and would be ideally suited for a gravel bike, hybrid/cross bike, touring bike or mountain bike.

- Even though the trail is not technically challenging, riding on gravel/dirt is more strenuous than paved roads. Since the trail is within the canyon, wind can be an added factor. If headwinds are significant, the starting point will be adjusted so that the outbound leg is against the headwind.

- A headlamp or flashlight is recommended for riding through the tunnels (#46 & #47). The longer of the two, tunnel #47 is curved such that the exit cannot be seen from the entrance.

- Round trip distance is about 36 miles and there are picnic areas along the route to take breaks. The Ponderosa picnic area has a well maintained outhouse, in addition to the outhouses at the South Cle Elum and Thorp trailheads.

- The target pace is about 10-14mph, though this will ultimately depend on the pace that everyone is comfortable with.

Equipment/Supplies:

• Bike suited for gravel
• Helmet
• Spare tube or tube repair kit & pump
• Headlamp
• Gloves (optional)
• Plenty of fluids
• Packed lunch
• Discover Pass is required to park at the South Cle Elum or Thorp trailhead.

Schedule:

• 8:30am Departure from Seattle
• 10:00am Arrive at South Cle Elum trail head
• 10:15am Depart South Cle Elum heading eastward
• 1pm Arrive at Thorp Trailhead
• 1:30pm Depart Thorp trailhead heading westward
• 4:00pm Arrive back at South Cle Elum trailhead
• 6:00pm Arrive back in Seattle

Carpool is self-organized on WhatsApp;

• Drivers - state how many you can take, from which location, at what time, and the reimbursement amount. Also indicate weight/size limit of your bike rack.
• Riders - confirm arrangements with drivers.

PS: Ironhorse Trail is also known as the Palouse to Cascades Trail.

Important: This is a group trip, not a guided tour. You’re responsible for your own safety and preparedness. Please know your abilities before signing up.

RSVP ETIQUETTE: Please edit your RSVP if you are unable to come. Due to the exposed nature of the trail, rain cancels.