WA: High Pass Challenge

The High Pass Challenge (HPC), a ride that takes riders on a 104-mile journey up to Mt. St. Helen’s Windy Ridge and back, was developed for the Cascade Bicycle Club in 2007 by Tom Meloy.

Due to the increased number of rides in September, we are keeping HPC on a Monday in August. For 2019 the date is Monday, Aug. 12. The 400 riders on HPC will embark on a challenging event, leading them through the beautiful Gifford Pinchot National Forest, including the Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument. Starting from Packwood, Washington, cyclists will climb near 7,500 feet in elevation gain over 104 miles. The halfway point is at scenic Windy Ridge, overlooking the Mount St. Helen’s blast zone. this event will be timed to the top and results will be posted online post event.

Medals are awarded at the Finish Line Festival based on how quickly riders make it to the top of Windy Ridge. This is done based on a 7 a.m. start time for ALL riders. If you start at 7:30 a.m. the timing still reflects a 7 a.m. start.

HPC is a strenuous mountain ride that climbs over Independence Pass, then winds past scenic Spirit Lake on the way to the Windy Ridge Viewpoint in the Mt. St. Helens National Monument area. The use of this pristine route was made possible by a special arrangement with the Gifford Pinchot National Forest and Mount St. Helens National Monument. This is a ride you don’t want to miss!

Beginning and ending in Packwood, Washington, the High Pass Challenge route uses low traffic paved national forest roads to explore the natural beauty that makes Washington special.  Riders get timed to the top. Based on your timed result to the top you earn a finisher’s medal. Every rider receives a finishers gift, picnic lunch, food stops and road support.

This is one of the most beautiful and unique places on earth, so enjoy the ride!