Welcome to RAMROD 2024: Ride Around Mt. Rainier in the Other Direction

Hello there, riders! Reversing the traditional RR course presents some logistical challenges but hey, we ride RR because we like challenges, right? Here is everything you need for a great ride. If you are taking your phone, we advise you cache this entire page in your phone’s browser, so you have it during the ride. You can also save the map graphic and start/finish maps but please do not post or distribute these without our permission.

RAMROD 2024 RIDER INSTRUCTIONS

WELCOME to RAMROD 2024 in this our 40th anniversary.

This year we have had to make many changes from what we have traditionally done. We moved the date from July to early September and we reversed the route. Those changes were made to accommodate concerns from the National Park about crowding in the peak summer months.

Our start/finish line has moved to the Enumclaw Expo Center {formerly King County Fairgrounds). This is a site RAMROD has used in the past. There is ample parking for all of our riders and support crews at the site. In addition, there is a very pleasant area for a rider village. At the same time however, the facility does not have a kitchen for food preparation and there are no showers available.

Because of the shift to September the first hour of the ride will be in legal darkness. ALL RIDERS MUST CARRY AND USE APPROPRIATE LIGHTS. We have provided separate information on the lights required.

We are also tightening the start times to make sure riders have sufficient time to complete the course and are off the road before dark. Start window is 5:00-6:30 AM and all riders have to be off the course by 8:00 PM.

We are able to offer this ride because we have permits from the National Park and several other organizations. These permits set conditions and require that we provide certain information to our riders.

These are the rider conduct rules. Please read them carefully and make sure you are in compliance.

We are also required to provide you with a copy of Washington State traffic laws relevant to bicycles. Those are also included on this page.

THE COURSE AND SAFETY CAUTIONS

We are also providing detailed course information including Ride with GPS maps.

This is a reverse course from our "modern traditional" course but uses most of the same roads. We WILL be permitted to operate in the Stevens Canyon corridor in the south part of the Park, we will not be on Skate Creek Road.

In summary, the main difference with the 2024 course is that the major climbing is moved forward and will be completed in the first 70 miles. We will also be operating in legal darkness for the first hour of the ride. Bicycle lights are mandatory for this ride.

Because conditions can change we will be conducting repeat scouting operations closer to the event. Updated safety messages will be provided by blast email to the registered riders shortly before the event. Please read those carefully.

Here are important safety issues we are able to identify now:

1. HWY 410 AND DARKNESS: The ride starts directly onto Hwy 410 eastbound from the Fairgrounds. While traffic on this road should be low at 5:00 AM this is a high-speed road, and riders need to make sure they keep to the right and on the shoulder out of traffic. A rearview mirror is advised, and riders must have adequate lighting to see the road ahead.

2. TURN TO FIRST FOOD STOP: The first food stop is at the Crystal sno park lot we have traditionally used for our Deli stop. Riders will be crossing the road across oncoming traffic. There is a turn lane here, but riders should use extreme caution when crossing.

3. CLIMBS IN THE NATIONAL PARK: Many of the roads in the National Park are narrow with little or no shoulders. The Park has made it clear that it expects riders to stay to the right and ride on shoulders where available, and to move to the side to avoid backing up 5 or more vehicles.

4. DESCENTS IN THE NATIONAL PARK: Many of these roads are winding with sharp hairpin turns and opposing vehicle traffic. In addition, speed limits are significantly reduced including a 20-mph limit in the Longmire visitor center area. Pay close attention to and comply with these speed restrictions. Stay in your lane on descent and avoid conflict with opposing traffic particularly along the heavily traveled Paradise Road. Be aware that this area will be tightly patrolled and riders who exceed speed limits can be taken off the course. Remember RAMROD is not a race and time records are not published. For the sake of future rides and future permits please comply with these restrictions.

5. CROSSING TRAFFIC: Two of our stops in the National Park require you to cross the road to get into the stop. We will have course marshals in the area warning vehicles and riders of the turn. Exercise extreme caution when crossing traffic for your own safety. These sites are at Upper Box Canyon and Inspiration Point.

6. POSSIBLE RUSH HOUR TRAFFIC: The last half of the ride will be for the most part along roads that we have traditionally rode at the beginning of the ride. Some of these roads are prone to rush hour traffic congestion. In addition, development has occurred in these areas and traffic is generally higher than it has been in the past. Fortunately, we have found some alternate roads that will take us largely out of the higher traveled roads. There is also a foot bridge between Buckley and Enumclaw that keeps us completely off of main roads all the way to the finish at the Fairgrounds. At this time, it looks like the footbridge will not be open in time. If that is the case, then we will detour onto Hwy 410 for about a mile. Traffic could be heavy, exercise extreme caution. Please check for the latest update at the end of this page.

Overall, we feel this new course is a pleasant alternative to our traditional course and may become our new tradition.

Remember what we can do going forward depends a lot on the conduct of our riders. For the sake of our 40-year tradition and moving towards the next 40 years we ask that you honor the conditions we have been given for the right to ride as a group in this wonderful place.

Cyclist behavior rules set by the National Park

1. Cyclists will ride single file at all times, except when passing.

2. Cyclists will ride on the right, on the shoulder or in available pullouts to allow vehicles to pass.

3. Bicycles are allowed on roadways, shoulders and pullouts only.

4. Bicycles must use pullouts when five or more vehicles are delayed behind them. If not obstructing traffic and traveling at the speed limit, a cyclist may ride in the center of the lane as is safe.

5. Cyclists shall not exceed the posted speed limit on park roads.

a. 45 miles per hour on majority of SR 410 and SR 123, and portions of Stevens Canyon Road.

b. 35 miles per hour on majority of Paradise roads and portions of Stevens Canyon Road.

c. 20 miles per hour in Longmire area.

6. Park regulations prohibit consuming alcoholic beverages or carrying open containers of alcoholic beverages while cycling.

7. All bicycles must comply with Washington State law regarding reflectors and lights for use in inclement weather and in tunnels.

8. Safety clothing is required for each cyclist and will consist of a bright vest or outer garment that is highly visible in shadow and an approved bicycle helmet.

9. All participating bicyclists are required to don rear facing flashing LEDs. These units should be either mounted unobstructed and rear facing on the back of the bicycle or rear mounted on the rider's helmet.

Provided as courtesy by WSDOT. May or may not include current amendments to the statutes listed below

Washington Bicycle Traffic Laws

RCW 46.04.071 Definition of "Bicycle"

“Bicycle“ means every device propelled solely by human power upon which a person or persons may ride, having two tandem wheels either of which is sixteen inches or more in diameter or three wheels any of which is more than twenty inches in diameter.

RCW 46.04.197 Definition of "Highway"

Highway means the entire width between the boundary lines of every way publicly maintained when any part thereof is open to the use of the public for purposes of vehicular travel.

RCW 46.04.200 Definition of "Hours of Darkness"

"Hours of darkness" means the hours from one-half hour after sunset to one-half hour before sunrise, and any other time when persons or objects may not be clearly discernible at a distance of five hundred feet.

RCW 46.04.500 Definition of "Roadway"

"Roadway" means that portion of a highway improved, designed, or ordinarily used for vehicular travel, exclusive of the sidewalk or shoulder even though such sidewalk or shoulder is used by persons riding bicycles. In the event a highway includes two or more separated roadways, the term "roadway" shall refer to any such roadway separately but shall not refer to all such roadways collectively.

RCW 46.04.590 Definition of "Traffic"

"Traffic" includes pedestrians, ridden or herded animals, vehicles, street cars, and other conveyances either singly or together, while using any public highways for purposes of travel.

RCW 46.04.670 Definition of "Vehicle"

"Vehicle" includes every device capable of being moved upon a public highway and in, upon, or by which any persons or property is or may be transported or drawn upon a public highway, including bicycles. The term does not include power wheelchairs or devices other than bicycles moved by human or animal power or used exclusively upon stationary rails or tracks. Mopeds shall not be considered vehicles or motor vehicles for the purposes of chapter 46.70 RCW. Bicycles shall not be considered vehicles for the purposes of chapter 46.12, 46.16, or 46.70 RCW. Electric personal assistive mobility devices are not considered vehicles or motor vehicles for the purposes of chapter 46.12, 46.16, 46.29, 46.37, or 46.70 RCW.

RCW 46.37.020 When Lighted Lamps and Signaling devices are Required Every vehicle upon a highway within this state at any time from a half hour after sunset to a half hour before sunrise and at any other time when, due to insufficient light or unfavorable atmospheric conditions, persons and vehicles on the highway are not clearly discernible at a distance of one thousand feet ahead shall display lighted headlights, other lights, and illuminating devices as hereinafter respectively required for different classes of vehicles, subject to exceptions with respect to parked vehicles, and such stop lights, turn signals, and other signaling devices shall be lighted as prescribed for the use of such devices

RCW 46.61.160 Restrictions on use of Limited Access Highway Use by Bicyclists

The department of transportation may by order, and local authorities may by ordinance or resolution, with respect to any limited access highway under their respective jurisdictions prohibit the use of any such highway by funeral processions, or by parades, pedestrians, bicycles or other nonmotorized traffic, or by any person operating a motor-driven cycle. Bicyclists may use the right shoulder of limited-access highways except where prohibited. The department of transportation may by order, and local authorities may by ordinance or resolution, with respect to any limited-access highway under their respective jurisdictions prohibit the use of the shoulders of any such highway by bicycles within urban areas or upon other sections of the highway where such use is deemed to be unsafe.

The department of transportation or the local authority adopting any such prohibitory regulation shall erect and maintain official traffic control devices on the limited access roadway on which such regulations are applicable, and when so erected no person may disobey the restrictions stated on such devices.

RCW 46.61.261 Sidewalks, crosswalks -- Pedestrians, bicycles.

The driver of a vehicle shall yield the right of way to any pedestrian or bicycle on a sidewalk. The rider of a bicycle shall yield the right of way to a pedestrian on a sidewalk or crosswalk.

RCW 46.61.427 Slow-Moving Vehicle to Pull off Roadway

On a two-lane highway where passing is unsafe because of traffic in the opposite direction or other conditions, a slow moving vehicle, behind which five or more vehicles are formed in a line, shall tum off the roadway wherever sufficient area for a safe turn­ out exists, in order to permit the vehicles following to proceed. As used in this section a slow moving vehicle is one which is proceeding at a rate of speed less than the normal flow of traffic at the particular time and place.

RCW 46.61.700 Parent or guardian shall not authorize or permit violation by a child or ward.

The parent of any child and the guardian of any ward shall not authorize or knowingly permit any such child or ward to violate any of the provisions of this chapter.

RCW 46.61.750 Effect of Regulations -- Penalty.

It is a traffic infraction for any person to do any act forbidden or fail to perform any act required in RCW 46.61.750 through 46.61.780.

These regulations applicable to bicycles apply whenever a bicycle is operated upon any highway or upon any bicycle path, subject to those exceptions stated herein.

RCW 46.61.755 Traffic laws apply to persons riding bicycles.

Every person riding a bicycle upon a roadway shall be granted all of the rights and shall be subject to all of the duties applicable to the driver of a vehicle by this chapter, except as to special regulations in RCW 46.61.750 through 46.61.780 and except as to those provisions of this chapter which by their nature can have no application.

Every person riding a bicycle upon a sidewalk or crosswalk must be granted all of the rights and is subject to all of the duties applicable to a pedestrian by this chapter.

RCW 46.61.758 Hand Signals.

All hand signals required of persons operating bicycles shall be given in the following manner:

(1) Left turn. Left hand and arm extended horizontally beyond the side of the bicycle;

(2) Right turn. Left hand and arm extended upward beyond the side of the bicycle, or right hand and arm extended horizontally to the right side of the bicycle;

(3) Stop or decrease speed. Left hand and arm extended downward beyond the side of the bicycle.

The hand signals required by this section shall be given before initiation of a turn.

RCW 46.61.760 Riding on Bicycles.

(1) A person propelling a bicycle shall not ride other than upon or astride a permanent and regular seat attached thereto.

(2) No bicycle shall be used to carry more persons at one time than the number for which it is designed and equipped.

RCW 46.61.765 Clinging to Vehicles

No person riding upon any bicycle, coaster, roller skates, sled or toy vehicle shall attach the same or himself to any vehicle upon a roadway.

RCW 46.61.770 Riding on Roadways and Bicycle Paths.

Every person operating a bicycle upon a roadway at a rate of speed less than the normal flow of traffic at the particular time and place shall ride as near to the right side of the right through lane as is safe except as may be appropriate while preparing to make or while making turning movements, or while overtaking and passing another bicycle or vehicle proceeding in the same direction. A person operating a bicycle upon a roadway or highway other than a limited-access highway, which roadway or highway carries traffic in one direction only and has two or more marked traffic lanes, may ride as near to the left side of the left through lane as is safe. A person operating a bicycle upon a roadway may use the shoulder of the roadway or any specially designated bicycle lane if such exists.

Persons riding bicycles upon a roadway shall not ride more than two abreast except on paths or parts of roadways set aside for the exclusive use of bicycles.

RCW 46.61.775 Carrying Articles

No person operating a bicycle shall carry any package, bundle or article which prevents the driver from keeping at least one hand upon the handle bars.

RCW 46.61.780 Lamps and other equipment on bicycles.

Every bicycle when in use during the hours of darkness as defined in RCW 46.37.020 shall be equipped with a lamp on the front which shall emit a white light visible from a distance of at least five hundred feet to the front and with a red reflector on the rear of a type approved by the state patrol which shall be visible from all distances up to six hundred feet to the rear when directly in front of lawful lower beams of head lamps on a motor vehicle. A lamp emitting a red light visible from a distance of five hundred feet to the rear may be used in addition to the red reflector. A light-emitting diode flashing taillight visible from a distance of five hundred feet to the rear may also be used in addition to the red reflector.

Every bicycle shall be equipped with a brake which will enable the operator to make the braked wheels skid on dry, level, clean pavement.

RCW 46.61.790 Intoxicated Bicyclists

(1) A law enforcement officer may offer to transport a bicycle rider who appears to be under the influence of alcohol or any drug and who is walking or moving along or within the right of way of a public roadway, unless the bicycle rider is to be taken into protective custody under RCW 70.96A.120. The law enforcement officer offering to transport an intoxicated bicycle rider under this section shall:

(a) Transport the intoxicated bicycle rider to a safe place; or

(b) Release the intoxicated bicycle rider to a competent person.

(2) The law enforcement officer shall not provide the assistance offered if the bicycle rider refuses to accept it. No suit or action may be commenced or prosecuted against the law enforcement officer, law enforcement agency, the state of Washington, or any political subdivision of the state for any act resulting from the refusal of the bicycle rider to accept this assistance. The law enforcement officer may impound the bicycle operated by an intoxicated bicycle rider if the officer determines that impoundment is necessary to reduce a threat

(3) to public safety, and there are no reasonable alternatives to impoundment. The bicyclist will be given a written notice of when and where the impounded bicycle may be reclaimed.

The bicycle may be reclaimed by the bicycle rider when the bicycle rider no longer appears to be intoxicated, or by an individual who can establish ownership of the bicycle. The bicycle must be returned without payment of a fee. If the bicycle is not reclaimed within thirty days, it will be subject to sale or disposal consistent with agency procedures.

WAC 308-330-545 Bicycles -- Obedience to traffic control devices.

(1) Any person operating a bicycle shall obey the instructions of official traffic control devices applicable to vehicles, unless otherwise directed by a police officer.

(2) Whenever authorized signs are erected indicating that no right or left or U-tum is permitted, no person operating a bicycle shall disobey the directions of any such sign, except where such person dismounts from the bicycle at the right-hand curb or as close as is practicable to the right edge of the right-hand shoulder to make any such tum, in which event such person shall then obey the regulations applicable to pedestrians.

WAC 308-330-555 Riding on sidewalks

(I) No person shall ride a bicycle upon a sidewalk in a business district.

(2) A person may ride a bicycle on any other sidewalk or any roadway unless restricted or prohibited by traffic control devices.

(3) Whenever any person is riding a bicycle upon a sidewalk, such person shall yield the right of way to any pedestrian.

WAC 468-58-050 Prohibition of non-motorized traffic on fully controlled limited access highway

(1) All nonmotorized traffic shall be prohibited on state highways which have been established and constructed as fully controlled limited access facilities, and signs giving notice of such prohibition shall be posted upon all such highways.

(2) This prohibition of nonmotorized traffic on fully controlled limited access highways shall not apply to:

(a) Pedestrian overcrossings and undercrossings or other facilities provided specifically for the use of such traffic.

(b) Bicycles utilizing the right-hand shoulders; except where the secretary of transportation or his designee has prohibited such use. Signs giving notice of such prohibition shall be posted for those sections where such usage is prohibited.

Provided as courtesy by WSDOT. May or may not include current amendments to the statutes listed below

Washington Laws Pertaining to Driving on Shoulders

RCW 46.04.500 Definition of "Roadway"

"Roadway" means that portion of a highway improved, designed or ordinarily used for vehicular travel, exclusive of the sidewalk or shoulder even though such sidewalk or shoulder is used by persons riding bicycles. In the event a highway includes two or more separated roadways, the term "roadway" shall refer to any such roadway separately but shall not refer to all such roadways collectively.

RCW 46.04.670 Definition of "Vehicle".

"Vehicle" includes every device capable of being moved upon a public highway and in, upon, or by which any persons or property is or may be transported or drawn upon a public highway, including bicycles. The term does not include power wheelchairs or devices other than bicycles moved by human or animal power or used exclusively upon stationary rails or tracks. Mopeds shall not be considered vehicles or motor vehicles for the purposes of chapter 46.70 RCW. Bicycles shall not be considered vehicles for the purposes of chapter 46.12, 46.16, or 46.70 RCW. Electric personal assistive mobility devices are not considered vehicles or motor vehicles for the purposes of chapter 46.12, 46.16, 46.29, 46.37, or46.70 RCW.

RCW 46.61.428 Slow-moving Vehicle Driving on Shoulders, When.

(I) The state department of transportation and local authorities are authorized to determine those portions of any two-lane highways under their respective jurisdictions on which drivers of slow-moving vehicles may safely drive onto improved shoulders for the purpose of allowing overtaking vehicles to pass and may by appropriate signs indicate the beginning and end of such zones.

(2) Where signs are in place to define a driving-on-shoulder zone as set forth in subsection (1) of this section, the driver of a slow-moving vehicle may drive onto and along the shoulder within the zone but only for the purpose of allowing overtaking vehicles to pass and then shall return to the roadway.

(3) Signs erected to define a driving-on-shoulder zone take precedence over pavement markings for the purpose of allowing the movements described in subsection (2) of this section.

RCW 46.61.670 Driving with wheels off roadway.

It shall be unlawful to operate or drive any vehicle or combination of vehicles over or along any pavement or gravel or crushed rock surface on a public highway with one wheel or all of the wheels off the roadway thereof, except as permitted by RCW

46.61.428 or for the purpose of stopping off such roadway, or having stopped thereat, for proceeding back onto the pavement, gravel or crushed rock surface thereof.

PACKET PICKUP SCHEDULE

Registered riders can pick up their packets on;

• Sunday, August 25, 2024, between 12:00 and 4:00 PM at Element Cycles store in Redmond, WA (19532 Redmond Way, Suite 103)

• Tuesday-Wednesday September 3-4, 2024, Registration opens roughly 4 PM on the 3rd at the Start/finish line area by Hwy 410 and 284th Ave. SE in Enumclaw.

RAMROD START/FINISH AREA

PARKING

The Enumclaw Expo Center (a.k.a. Fairgrounds) has a straightforward parking situation, unlike previous years at the high school or Thunder Mountain Middle School.

To help make the ride day go as smoothly as possible, it's important that all cyclists carefully refer to the Start/Finish Area Map and read these instructions on parking and traffic.

1. DO NOT PARK OR DROP OFF RIDERS ON SR410 AT THE START LINE AREA (Field House/Upper Ballfield). This area is CLOSED to participant vehicles from noon Tuesday through the event on Wednesday.

2. BE COURTEOUS - DO NOT PARK OR DROP OFF RIDERS in the lots of Charlie’s or Athenas restaurants, or the Rodeway Inn.

3. Cyclist parking lots are on 284th Ave SE (Farman St) south of SR410.

There are THREE RAMROD entrances. The North driveway is for Finish Line operations ONLY.

The South driveway is for RAMROD logistics and command operations ONLY. In either area NO private vehicles or rider drop offs are allowed.

CYCLIST PARKING is via the MIDDLE DRIVEWAY. The parking lots are to the left (north) and right (south) of the driveway, as well as the grass area to the east. You must drive to the far east end of the driveway before going to the lot of your choice.

Parking is/may be shared with ongoing football or soccer practices/activities on both Tuesday and Wednesday. Be respectful and park carefully.

There is NO STREET PARKING in the area. There is ample room in the lots.

NO RV PARKING in the cyclist parking lots. There is RV space available close by. Contact the Fairground for information.

Carpools are encouraged. There is no dedicated carpool parking area.

IMPORTANT - AVOID CONFLICT WITH RIDERS FINISHING IN THE AFTERNOON AND EVENING, PLEASE EXIT CYCLIST PARKING USING EXTREME CAUTION – LOOK LEFT FOR ARRIVING RIDERS.

RIDER DROP-OFF AREA

The rider drop off area is in the Administration Building parking lot, immediately south of the RAMROD logistics parking area. Space is limited so please be quick and ask your ride to depart immediately. NO EVENT ACCESS OR PARKING IS ALLOWED AFTER RIDE START.

If you are staying in town, consider leaving your vehicle at the hotel or residence and riding your bike to the start. You are a RAMROD rider - you won't be hurt by a mile or three warmup on flat roads.

START AREA RIDER FLOW

1. Park your vehicle neatly – please leave room for others.

2. Don’t forget all your stuff! Don’t forget your LIGHTS.

3. Walk your bike to the Rider Village where you will find: Packet Pickup, Jerseys, Sanitation and First Aid. (at the Finish there will also be limited Refreshment and ICE CREAM!).

4. When you have finished your Zen meditations/Yoga and/or Pilates proceed along the Rider Walkway through the RFID Tag Check and on to the Start Area.

5. The water bottle fill station is at the Field House.

6. The Start Area is somewhat constricted so please make room and try not to linger any longer than necessary.

7. Depart (have a NICE RIDE, we’ll see you in 148.3 miles)

FINISH LINE FESTIVITIES

1. Welcome back! We hope you had a great ride

2. ICE CREAM!

3. Refreshments

4. First Aid (but we hope you don’t need it)

5. Jerseys

6. Sanitation

7. Sorry – no showers this year

8. Please take great care exiting the parking area – LOOK LEFT FOR ARRIVING RIDERS

9. Drive home safely.

COURSE

Mile Start at Enumclaw   Elev

0.0      Right on SR410           761

31.7     Left on Crystal Mtn Blvd 2742 Silver Springs Sno-Park - FOOD STOP   2742

31.8     Continue on SR410 North Park Boundary - Enter Park              2751

36.3    Continue on SR 410 Sunrise Intersection              3698

39.9    Continue Straight on SR123 Cayuse Summit      4701

44.0    Continue on SR123 Deer Creek     3493

50.8    Right on Stevens Canyon Rd Stevens Canyon Entrance CHECKPOINT              2179

56.5    Continue on Stevens Canyon Rd Backbone Ridge Summit            3439

61.7     Continue on Stevens Canyon Rd Box Canyon Picnic Area - FOOD STOP    3075

69.1     Continue on Stevens Canyon Rd Ride Highest Elevation              4907

69.4    Continue on Stevens Canyon Rd Inspiration Point - CHECKPOINT, WATER STOP            4864

69.8    Left on Paradise Valley Rd Paradise Valley Rd    4794

78.9    Continue on Paradise Valley Rd Longmire Inn    2761

85.4    Continue on Paradise Valley Rd Nisqually Entrance - Exit Park          2026

91.6     Continue on SR706 Ashford County Park DELI - FOOD STOP   1731

96.5    CAUTION RR TRACKS!          1326

98.7    CAUTION RR TRACKS!          1239

99.2    Continue Straight on SR7 Elbe       1222

99.4    CAUTION RR TRACKS!          1229

103.9   Right on Alder Cutoff Rd      1205

110.6   Continue on Center St859Eatonville Eagles - CHECKPOINT, SNACK STOP            859

111.1   Right on Washington Ave N              796

112.4 Right on Orville Rd E  507

121.3   Right, Continue on Orville Rd E Kapowsin Corner at blinking light 726

130.6   Right on SR162 at Baxter Manufacturing 236

130.9   NB SR162 Ride Lowest Elevation  230

132.9   Leave SR162, Right on S Prairie Carbon River Rd E Past Foothills Trail overpass        304

137.2   Left on Emery Ave S South Prairie 434

137.3   Right to rejoin SR162             432

139.6   Left on SR165 Wilkeson Corner     695

141.1   Right on Ryan Rd Buckley   726

141.2 Left on S River Rd        726

141.9   Left on Park Ave         720

142.0   Right on SR410           718

142.9   Right on SE Mud Mountain Rd         675

146.0   Left on 284th Ave SE              807

148.5   Right to Field House Overflow Lot              761

Finish at Enumclaw - Total gain - 9784'

 RFID TAG INSTRUCTIONS

IMPORTANT: YOUR RFID TAG IS NECESSARY FOR NATIONAL PARK ENTRANCE. ANYONE NOT WEARING A RAMROD BIB AND RFID TAG WILL BE DENIED ENTRANCE AS PART OF OUR RIDE.

RAMROD tracks riders using RFID tags to promote safety and to help us manage resources while riders are out on the course. RAMROD is not a bicycle race and collective time records will not be published. Data collected using RFID tags is confidential and used solely for RAMROD rider status and support.

INSTALLING YOUR RFID TAG Your RFID tag can be found in a large, neon-colored envelope in your rider packet. The tag looks like an address label printed with your bib number. PEAL OFF THE BACKING TO ATTACH THE ADHESIVE TAG TO THE TOP OF YOUR CYCLING HELMET. Tags work best when flat but it’s okay if an edge is pressed into a vent.

TESTING YOUR RFID TAG You should verify that your tag has been installed properly and is functioning at the TAG TEST Station before riding through the Start Line.

ABANDONING THE EVENT Every year some riders are unable to complete the course. We need to track you even if you decide to leave the event. There are SAG vehicles on the course to transport you forward. Each time you pass an RFID station, your info will be given to the RFID station to update your status in our tracking system. If you obtain a ride from the course from anyone who is not an official SAG vehicle, you still need to inform us by one of these methods: stopping at any RFID check point or stopping by the finish line or contacting any HAM vehicle on the course or by calling us at 206 920 7072. WE ARE SERIOUS ABOUT KEEPING TRACK OF ALL RIDERS: ANY RIDER WHO LEAVES THE COURSE WITHOUT INFORMING US MAY BE DENIED THE RIGHT TO PARTICIPATE IN RAMROD IN THE FUTURE.

REMOVING YOUR RFID TAG AFTER THE EVENT We do not collect the tags after the end of the ride. You can remove and properly dispose the tag.

 FOOD STOPS

For food, we anticipate that the pack will be faster than on the traditional course and also will remain fairly tightly bunched for the first food stop. The pack will likely string out a bit more between the first and second food stops and remain strung out until the third food stop. We’re guessing that the pack will come back together between the third stop and the finish. This means that our stellar volunteers will have less time than usual to prep and set out food, which in turn has caused a few menu changes. Don’t worry, those deli sandwiches remain unchanged, along with RR cookies and chocolate croissants – but you may find them at a different place along the route.

Start line, at the fairground

MP 0.0, Open 4:00 to 6:30 AM

• BYO. Sorry, no facilities for food or coffee: no kitchen, no running water, no tables. Think of it as your chance to get a head start on a full day of bagels and bananas.

First stop, Silver Springs Sno-Park (gravel lot on Crystal Mtn Rd)

MP 31.7, Open 6:45 to 9:00 AM

• Bagels with cream cheese, peanut butter, and/or jam (no honey, wasn’t a big seller)

• New at this stop: steamed potatoes with salt and Parmesan cheese bar

• Bananas and grapes

• Water and Gatorade (as always, made half strength but there will be powder available if you want to amp yours)

• Small zippies to pack snacks

• Port-o-Johns

Second stop, Upper Box Canyon

MP 61.6, Open 8:00 to 11:30 AM

• Bagels with cream cheese, peanut butter, and/or jam

• Steamed potatoes with salt and Parmesan cheese bar

• Bananas and grapes

• Water and Gatorade (as always, made half strength but there will be powder available if you want to amp yours)

• Tums

• Small zippies to pack snacks

• Port-o-Johns

• Ice – for bottles and for neck wraps

Inspiration Point

MP 69.4, Open 9:30 to 2:30 PM

• Water and Gatorade

• Ice

• Port-o-Johns

Third stop, Ashford County Park: The Deli!

MP 91.5, Open 10:30 to 3:30pm

• Made to order sandwiches!

• Chips!

• Pickles and pickle juice shots – by popular demand, kosher dills!

• All the fruit! Bananas, grapes, watermelon, cantaloupe, honeydew, nectarines!

• RR cookies! Individually wrapped to tuck in your pocket!

• Soda, V8, OJ!

• Water and Gatorade!

• Ice!

• Port-o-Johns!

Eatonville, Eagles

MP 110.6, Open 11:30 to 5:30 PM

• Chocolate croissants

• Water and Gatorade

• Ice

Finish line

MP 148.5, Open 1:30 to 8:00 PM

• Ice cream truck – remember, you can have more than one!

QUESTIONS & ANSWERS

Do I need a rear red reflector?

Yes, and it must be capable of being seen out to 600 ft. when illuminated by a low beam headlight.  You should buy a reflector that is advertised as in compliance with Federal safety standards. That will mean the reflector is large and effective enough to provide the required visibility. Find a place to securely mount it so it is unobstructed. Securely attached to the rear of a seat bag may be a good spot. It must be behind your seat post and behind any obstructions.

Can I remove the reflector after dawn?

The reflector requirement applies to hours of darkness as well as areas of reduced visibility. This means all the lights including the reflector must be used when in a tunnel or in case of fog. If you are found without appropriate lights and reflectors the Park officers may remove you from the course.

Do I need a rear facing blinking light?

Both we and the National Park require that you also use a rear facing blinking light in addition to the reflector. The blinkie must be on and operating continuously while in the national park. You will not be allowed to proceed without it. Feel free to supplement the legal requirements with additional visibility aids which could include things like mirrors, safety vests, helmet lights and other visibility aids. We intend to secure a supply of red adhesive reflective tape and have it available at the start line for those who wish to enhance their visibility.

Is it possible to camp at the Fairgrounds on the night of September 3rd?

The Enumclaw Expo Center has both hookup camping and “dry” (tent) camping available.  There are charges and instructions for camping and you have to make your arrangements IN ADVANCE with the Expo Center.   If you are not able to pick up your pass from the Expo Center in advance they will provide the approved passes to us for pickup from registration.  YOU HAVE TO MAKE THOSE ARRANGEMENTS IN ADVANCE.  Late arrivals cannot be accommodated as their office closes at 4 PM on the 3rd.

Please clarify the light requirements as most lights last 3 hrs. Is it permissible to turn it off after sunrise and then turn it on for the tunnels? 

It is up to you to provide working lights for the ride.  For headlights we anticipate up to one hour in darkness at the start, but if you encounter fog later in the ride you may have to turn headlights on again.  Flashing rear lights have to be on throughout the ride. IT IS YOUR RESPONSIBILITY TO CARRY ENOUGH BATTERIES TO RUN YOUR LIGHTS AS NEEDED.  IF YOUR LIGHTS DO NOT WORK YOU COULD BE REQUIRED TO ABANDON THE RIDE.

Where can I put the red reflector rear facing?

The law requires a rear reflector securely attached to the bike and CONTINUOUSLY visible out to 600 ft from all angles.  Each bike configuration is different, and it is up to you to figure out what works for you.  One suggestion is get a clamp on reflector that can be attached to the rear frame on your bike.  The reflector must be securely attached to your bike, something attached to your helmet or clothing may not qualify. 

What type of Aero bars are permitted?

All commercial handlebars are permitted.  The use of aerobars and aerodynamic positions where your hands are less than a foot apart is not permitted in pacelines, rest stops, starts and stops.

What type of e-bikes are permitted?

No e-bikes are permitted. 

Do I need a red rear reflector in addition to a rear strobe light?

Yes.

Do I need a rear-view mirror if I have a rear camera view radar type system?

Rear view mirrors are strongly recommended but not required.  How you choose to do a rear view is up to you. If you have a rear facing radar, your battery will not last 6 hours, and you will not complete this ride in 6 hours.

Which course is it on RidewithGPS?

47628750 is the ID. https://ridewithgps.com/routes/47628750

Are there opportunities to lead in the club?

Yes several board members will be recruiting for new board positions this Sunday at packet pickup, please come chat with us!

WHAT DID WE MISS?

If you still have a question or concern let us know, all registered riders can email us at ramrod@redmondcycling.club please include your full name and bib number and we will be answering all questions from now until September 3rd.

COURSE CONDITIONS UPDATE

Will be updated here right up to the day before the ride.

Enjoy your RAMROD!

(c) 2024 Redmond Cycling Club. All Rights Reserved.

Map Key

A. Start

B. Silver Springs

C. Cayuse Pass Summit

D. Park Entrance @ Stevens Canyon

E. Backbone Ridge

F. Upper Box Canyon

G. Highest Elevation

H. Inspiration Point

I. Nisqually Entrance

J. Deli @ Ashford County Park

K. Eatonville Eagles

L. Lowest Elevation

M. Finish