Coal Lake on Mountain Loop Highway

[gillesgc]

Just a short ride out yesterday, trying to capture some last rides before the snow closes off all the Cascade foothills. Ran out the Mountain Loop Highway to mile 29 where there was snow and ice on the verge, so I didn't want to discover the black ice I knew was lurking around the corner. Turned around and slow cruised back enjoying the incredible views. Notice a Forest Service Road, Coal Lake and decided to give it a try. Best idea in a long time! Short 3 mile run up the side of the mountain with stunning views all the way. Small gravel and moderate grade made the run fairly easy with the stock Metzlers. Was surprised at the wheel spin in TC1 and, after turning around the amount of rear wheel skid allowed with just the foot/rear brake. Almost two hours of crappy traffic each way resulted in 1 hour of amazing scenery. I can't wait to run the Loop on my way to Winthrop next year!

 

[HoebSTer]

nice looking ride Grizz!!! Wish I could have joined you. What days do you have off during the week?

 

[Twitch]

That looks like a pretty cool place. Nice photos. 8)

 

[eemsreno]

Grizzley1
Nice pictures, I have very fond memory's of Washington St. from our ride through there last year.
http://www.yamahasupertenere.com/index.php?topic=262.0

 

[Don in Lodi]

Hope you don't mind, one of your shots is now my desktop pic. ::025::

 

[gillesgc]

Hope you don't mind, one of your shots is now my desktop pic. ::025::

Hey Don,

I'm glad you liked it, and and flattered you chose to put it on your desktop.

Thanks for letting me know,

Gil
www.gilleschampagnephotography.com

 

[Tremor38]

Just a short ride out yesterday, trying to capture some last rides before the snow closes off all the Cascade foothills. Ran out the Mountain Loop Highway to mile 29 where there was snow and ice on the verge, so I didn't want to discover the black ice I knew was lurking around the corner. Turned around and slow cruised back enjoying the incredible views. Notice a Forest Service Road, Coal Lake and decided to give it a try. Best idea in a long time! Short 3 mile run up the side of the mountain with stunning views all the way. Small gravel and moderate grade made the run fairly easy with the stock Metzlers. Was surprised at the wheel spin in TC1 and, after turning around the amount of rear wheel skid allowed with just the foot/rear brake. Almost two hours of crappy traffic each way resulted in 1 hour of amazing scenery. I can't wait to run the Loop on my way to Winthrop next year!

Nice! "mountain loop highway, eh?" I grew up in the Seattle area (Federal way) and have been to Winthrop via the paved route a couple of times. Wasn't into adventure riding at the time though. I might have to find a rental bike next time I visit. 8)

 

[tubebender]

Nice scenery Griz! That 3rd picture really captures all the elements.