For many years the Circumnavigate Mount Hood (link) has a been a pinnacle ride. Since the roads around Mount Hood are perfect to be configured in many ways, there have been a few other variations. This variation takes in the beautiful Lost Lake Resort in the form of a lollipop shape ride going out and back on Lolo Pass rd. This cuts out some of the highway riding of the traditional ride around Mount Hood.
- 72Miles, 7400ft mostly paved
- 7 miles of light gravel on NF1810 just at the top of Lolo Pass.
- Road bike with 25c tires is ok.
Provisions
At just over half way (41 miles) is Lost lake Resort. Here is a small store which has food and drink. If you are riding this in the off season its worth checking that the store is open before you head out.
If needed along the way are many streams which can be used for water. (water filtered suggested)
Wahtum Lake Variation
83miles, 9200ft
You can incorporate Wahtum Lake in the overall Lost Lake loop as an out and back detour. Since the amazingly beautiful lake is remote, it is mainly trafficked by through hikers of the Pacific Crest trail, making traffic almost non existent. The surrounding area is hiking trails and there are primitive campsites around the lake. Although there are no direct spectacular views of Mount Hood from up here, on the road up there are some amazing valley cutaways. The lake is recessed in a bowl and when you get to the trail head you will have to walk down quite a few wood dirt stairs to get to lake level. I did this in my cycling shoes, no biggie, but just a warning.
On a very busy mid summer day there was only 7 cars at the trail head. meaning its very quite and peaceful.
(Warning the road up is steep and long. 7 miles long and average 6% grade. 2200ft elevation gain) At first this might not seem like a big deal, but when incorporated into the rest of the route it makes for a long ride.
Wahtum Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/30608517
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