Soda and Pretzels and Bikes?

Roll out those lazy, hazy, crazy days of summer,
Those days of soda and pretzels and beer,
Roll out those lazy, hazy, crazy days of summer,
You'll wish that summer could always be here . . .
- Nat King Cole

With all due respect to Mr. Cole, how can he sing about summer without mentioning bicycles? Ever since I was a kid, when I think of sunshine, vacation, and warmth, I think of bikes and the freedom to explore the great outdoors. And there's no better place to do just that than Oregon's magnificent Columbia River Gorge.

The sixth annual Gorge Ride, sponsored by the Friends of the Historic Columbia River Highway (HCRH), attracted nearly 400 riders ready to experience the 19.25 mile route that begins at the Gorge Discovery Center in The Dalles and ends at the Hatfield Trailhead just east of Hood River. The ride is a combination of historic highway that's open to motor vehicles, with very low traffic, and the HCRH State Trail that's open only to bicyclists and hikers.

The terrain isn't as tough as it appears on elevation profiles as the HCRH was built with no grades exceeding 5%. The ride features excellent views from Rowena Crest and Memaloose Overlook and the opportunity to coast through the Mosier Twin Tunnels. From beginners to seasoned enthusiasts, the Gorge Ride offers something for every skill level.

So what are you waiting for? Get outside and get on a bike . . . and don't forget the soda and pretzels.