Issaquah to Carnation loop via Union Hill and Sammamish

It's Fall, and a perfect time to be cruising through the Snoqualmie Valley out to Carnation before the rains set in!

The ride starts in Issaquah at Tibbets Valley Park at 965 12th Ave NW, Issaquah 98027 (Note that this is NOT the Park & Ride, which is nearby).  There are restrooms available at the start. There should be plenty of available parking. Parking is limited to a four hour period.

We will start heading out on East Lk Sammamish Parkway towards Redmond.  In Redmond, the route heads West on Union Hill Rd, with a slight diversion to Novelty Hill Rd to avoid a rather steep section with limited shoulder.  Once back on Union Hill Rd there are a number of rolling hills and modest climbs that provide some elevation gain, your reward is several miles of downhill cruising towards Ames Lake and then Carnation.  In Carnation the rest stop for food is at Starbucks - there are other options nearby.  The return takes us on some lightly used country roads heading out south on West Snoqualmie River Rd.  We cross over SR202 and ride up Issaquah Fall City Road which provides some decent climbing towards the plateau, then the route heads around towards Beaver Lake. We end up with a descent towards downtown Issaquah.

Pace: BRISK (16 to 18mph) We will ride within the posted pace on the flats with an equivalent effort up hills. We will regroup at the top of significant climbs, and major intersections. If you plan to ride faster or slower, please come prepared to ride on your own so that the group does not have long wait times. Please print out the Cue Sheet and bring this with you.

Regroups/Mechanicals: We will not stop for mechanical issues. Please come prepared the necessary equipment you need to take care of flats or other problems on your own. Please print a cue sheet from the route link in the event that you get separated from the group. 

Rest Stops: There are restrooms at the start. The stop at Carnation is at mile 29.  There is a third opportunity to fill up water bottles and use the restroom at Beaver Lake (a short way off 244th at mile 40) should this be required.

Cancellation Policy: In the event of a weather cancellation, a notice will be posted in the comments on this page at least two hours before the ride and the ride leader will not be at the ride start location. If questionable, you can also contact the ride leader using the rporvided contact information.

Please make sure to arrive at least 20 minutes before the ride start so you can get prepared to roll out at the posted time, sign a waiver, and hear the ride briefing. As is required with all Cascade rides, please ensure you wear a helmet and come prepared with gear that is comfortable and appropriate for the weather, and distance/elevation.