Johnny's Rain City Ride

Johnny's rides are social, urban excursions with an emphasis on fun, fitness and safety.  The rides will typically be less than 20mi., with less than 1000ft. of elevation gain, at a steady(12-14mph) pace. There will always be an optional post-ride gathering at the venue we start from. Hey, it doesn't get any better than this!

We start the ride in maritime Ballard and head east on the Burke Gillman to warm up our legs before turning north for a comfortable climb up Stone Way. Our route continues along the east side of Lago Verde and then northwest where we will make a pass by Historic Crown Hill Cemetery. Our trek north continues into lovely Blue Ridge where we will encounter a short, but relatively steep(10%) hill. Gotta keep warm! Next stop is the stunning Sunset Hill overlook of Puget Sound. We then proceed east to 6th ave. N.W. and begin our gradual descent back to our starting point, also passing by the 'fun house' on 8th & 50th. Optional post-ride get together at Maritime Pacific. Oh Yeah.

Maritime Pacific has given us permission to use their parking lot. The street parking is also free on Sundays. Bathrooms and water are available at the start. Be sure to arrive at least 20 minutes early in order to get yourself ready, sign the waiver, and listen to the S.M.A.R.T. briefing.
Riders should have the proper equipment and knowledge to repair a flat tire and deal with minor mechanical issues. It is also recommended to bring a phone and be sure your emergency contact information is up to date, in the event you are unable to finish the ride. My Orca card has saved me more than once.

If rain is predicted:  I suggest your bike be equipped with long fenders and buddy/mud flaps, so as the person riding behind you doesn't get a shower. Your local bike shop can install these. The days can be dark, it can be helpful to have a functional headlight and taillight, fully charged. The more visible we are, the safer we are. And your outfit needs to be protective enough to keep you comfortable in inclement weather. The duration and intensity of any rain/showers can fluctuate during the ride. But your Ride Leader is always willing to modify a route mid-way if the group so desires.

Weather:  No rain cancellation. However, if it is the monsoons, snow, ice or heavy winds, the ride will be canceled.   Ride cancellation will be announced in the comments section at least two hours before start time and the ride leader(s) will not be at the start.

Register: Please RSVP by clicking on the red "Register Now" button under the ride title above, then checking the box for "Waiver Signature" and filling in the contact information.  This will save us time at the start. If you don't have a Cascade account, no problem. Just show up at the ride start and sign the paper waiver. A route map and cue sheet are attached and the link for the Ride With GPS file is below. If you want a cue sheet please print and bring it. This is also helpful if you need to return to the start.

Maritime Pacific is located at 1111 NW Ballard Way in the Ballard district of Seattle, positioned just northeast of the Ballard Bridge on NW Ballard Way. The cross streets are 14th Avenue NW and NW Ballard Way.