The Crater Lake Century Ride with GPS is a challenging and scenic cycling event that takes riders around the stunning Crater Lake in Oregon. This ride offers both a 62-mile Metric Century and a 100-mile Full Century option, starting and ending at the historic Fort Klamath Museum. Cyclists use GPS devices or smartphone apps to navigate the route, which includes the iconic 33-mile Rim Drive loop around Crater Lake, featuring significant elevation gains and breathtaking views.
What is the Route for the Crater Lake Century Ride?
The Crater Lake Century Ride offers two main routes:
- 62-mile Metric Century
- 100-mile Full Century
Both routes begin and end at the historic Fort Klamath Museum. The ride involves:
- A gradual climb to the rim of Crater Lake
- A 33-mile loop around the lake using the Rim Drive
- For the Full Century, an additional out-and-back section before climbing to Crater Lake
Notable landmarks along the route include:
- Rim Village
- Discovery Point
- Watchman Trailhead
- North Junction
- Cleetwood Cove
- Cloudcap
How Can GPS Enhance the Crater Lake Century Ride Experience?
GPS technology plays a crucial role in enhancing the Crater Lake Century Ride experience:
- Navigation: GPS devices or smartphone apps provide turn-by-turn directions, ensuring riders stay on course.
- Elevation Tracking: Cyclists can monitor their elevation gain and loss throughout the ride.
- Safety: Live tracking features allow support teams to monitor riders’ progress.
- Performance Metrics: Integration with heart rate and cadence sensors helps riders manage their effort.
- Route Planning: Downloadable GPS files allow riders to familiarize themselves with the route before the event.
Recommended GPS devices and apps include:
- Garmin cycling computers
- Strava
- Ride with GPS
- MapMyRide
What is the Elevation Profile of the Crater Lake Century Ride?
The Crater Lake Century Ride presents a significant elevation challenge:
- The 33-mile Rim Drive loop alone involves an elevation gain of approximately 3,910 feet.
- The Full Century route has an even higher total elevation gain due to additional miles and climbs.
Key elevation features:
- Gradual climbs leading to the rim of Crater Lake
- Several steep sections, particularly when ascending to the rim
- Notable climbs include the ascent to Cloudcap
- Varied terrain along the Rim Drive with multiple ascents and descents
Riders can access detailed elevation charts through the event’s website or GPS navigation apps for a visual representation of the route’s profile.
What are the Road Conditions for the Crater Lake Century Ride?
Understanding the road conditions is crucial for a safe and enjoyable Crater Lake Century Ride:
- Rim Drive:
- Paved road
- Narrow sections
- Long, steep grades
- Limited shoulders in many areas
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Requires extreme caution, especially on blind curves
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Approach Roads:
- Paved surfaces
- Steep sections
- Significant elevation changes
Cyclists should be prepared for:
– Sharing the road with vehicles
– Navigating challenging terrain
– Adapting to changing weather conditions at high elevations
What are the Event Details for the Crater Lake Century Ride?
Key details for participants in the Crater Lake Century Ride include:
- Schedule:
- Typically held on a Saturday
- Registration and packet pickup the day before
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Staggered start times (groups of 10 riders every 15 minutes)
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Registration:
- Costs vary (check official website for current pricing)
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Proceeds benefit local organizations like Klamath County Museums and Klamath-Lake Counties Food Bank
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Amenities:
- Parking near Fort Klamath Museum and designated areas
- Rest stops along the route
- Food and aid stations
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Post-ride BBQ and festivities
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Accessibility:
- Open to experienced cyclists comfortable with traffic and steep grades
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High elevation riding experience recommended
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Rules and Regulations:
- Obey all traffic rules
- Wear helmets
- Use bright, highly-visible clothing
- Respect speed limits
- No riding on park trails
- Water available only at Rim Village and Park Headquarters
How to Prepare for the Crater Lake Century Ride with GPS?
Proper preparation is key to a successful Crater Lake Century Ride:
- GPS Setup:
- Download the route to your GPS device or smartphone app
- Familiarize yourself with the route and elevation profile
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Ensure your device is fully charged and bring a backup power source
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Training:
- Incorporate hill training to prepare for the significant elevation gain
- Practice long rides to build endurance for the century distance
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Train at higher elevations if possible to acclimate to the altitude
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Equipment:
- Use a well-maintained bike suitable for long climbs and descents
- Carry spare tubes, tools, and a pump for emergency repairs
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Wear appropriate clothing for variable weather conditions
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Nutrition and Hydration:
- Plan your nutrition strategy, including energy gels, bars, and electrolyte drinks
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Carry sufficient water, as refill points are limited on the route
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Safety Precautions:
- Inform someone of your ride plan
- Carry a cell phone for emergencies (note that coverage may be limited)
- Be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions
By following these preparation steps and utilizing GPS technology, riders can maximize their enjoyment and safety during the Crater Lake Century Ride.
References:
- http://bestrides.org/crater-lake-loop/
- https://cyclingescapes.com/bicycletours/oregon/craterlake/biketour.html
- https://thesweetcyclists.com/crater-lake/
- https://www.craterlakeinstitute.com/what-to-do/planning-your-visit/bicycling/
- https://ridetherimoregon.com/route-map-and-elevation-chart/