Snohomish Hub and Spoke May 25-May 28 

by Anne and Bill Campbell

An energetic group of 23 gathered at The Riverton Alehouse for an introductory dinner. The always organized Dick and Elaine Carpenter reviewed the routes and handed out maps etc. Most of the group elected to stay at the Snohomish Inn. The first day’s route was along the very scenic Centennial Trail. This is a dedicated nonvehicular paved “trail”, which was previously a rail bed. We left from the motel and headed north to Arlington which was approximately 40 km away. Everyone elected the optional 10 km to the end of the route at Nakashima Farm where we stopped for a leisurely bag lunch. In total we rode almost exactly 100 km. That we had perfect weather conditions made today’s ride most enjoyable. Day Two started with a short car ride to the town of Monroe. The first portion of the ride was on country roads before turning onto Hwy 2 which had a wide shoulder. After GoldBar we headed into the climbing portion of the ride. Traffic was very light on this park like section for the uphill grade. Of course the reward was zipping downhill and arriving at Index where we availed ourselves of their restaurant and store. We returned along the same route until Gold Bar. The Sultan Bakery provided a welcome stop. We then took an alternate route through country roads for the last 15 km to pick up our cars in Monroe. Despite threatening clouds we escaped the rain. In all we covered 81 km. Day Three’s ride was the Snohomish to Monroe/High Bridge Route (56 km) with an optional extension of about 30 km. to Everett. The ride was on quiet country roads. Hills were manageable with a climb of about 548 m. Those who opted for the ride to Everett were happy they did. Showers refreshed us at various times but did not dampen our spirits. Overall, a good day with great vistas and a variety of terrain Day Four: After three days of most enjoyable riding, Mother Nature intervened with inclement weather. Most people opted to get a jump start on their homeward journey or to other commitments. A few hardy souls braved the rain and headed out for a short ride. However we all appreciated the overall experience of the Snohomish area and biking it afforded. Thanks Dick and Elaine Carpenter for organizing this event.