The Northwest’s largest cycling event draws 8,000 riders for a legendary 200-mile journey from Seattle to Portland. This double-century ride offers both one-day and two-day options, attracting everyone from casual cyclists to serious endurance athletes looking to tackle one of the region’s most iconic routes.

Starting from the University of Washington, the course winds through diverse terrain including urban Seattle, rural Washington farmland, and Oregon’s rolling hills before finishing with a celebratory festival at Portland’s Holladay Park. The route is well-supported with strategically placed aid stations every 25-30 miles, featuring mechanical support and substantial food stops at key locations like Spanaway Middle School, Centralia College, and Lexington.

Two-day riders overnight in Centralia at the halfway point, breaking the challenge into manageable segments. One-day participants face the full distance in a single push, with the final 50 miles being the most forgiving terrain-wise, leading to the dramatic finish crossing St. John’s Bridge.

The event creates a rolling festival atmosphere as thousands of cyclists share the road, creating an almost parade-like experience through small towns along the route. Community support is strong, with local schools and nonprofits staffing aid stations, adding to the grassroots feel.

Organized by Cascade Bicycle Club since the 1970s, the ride has become a rite of passage for Pacific Northwest cyclists. Registration fees support the club’s advocacy work for better cycling infrastructure throughout Washington. The organization provides comprehensive training programs leading up to the event, helping riders prepare for the physical and logistical demands of the long-distance challenge.