Leif Erickson/Skyline Rd. Loop Gravel Grinder

Description

This ride starts at Wallace Park/Chapman School. This short but scenic loop climbs up from NW Portland into Forest Park and back along the crest of the Tualatin mountains. Includes about 1,300’ of sustained climbing during the first half. Much of the route is on hard-pack gravel roads (Leif Erickson & Saltzman) with several sections similar to riding on cobblestones. Best to use a mountain, hybrid, gravel, or cross bike. Pavement resumes at Skyline Blvd, where we’ll turn left/south on Skyline then left/east on Thompson and Cornell roads for a downhill run into NW Portland. Safety notes: We plan to ride single file on Skyline Rd, and use the adjacent bike path where available. There are two tunnels on Cornell Rd and we’ll detour around the second, longer tunnel via the pedestrian path on the north side. Coffee stop in NW Portland at or near the end of the ride. Note: Ride may be cancelled in the event of heavy rain, high winds, etc. If in doubt, please call or text the ride leaders for an update.