What are the dates of the next ride?
September 9 – 15, 2024 and registration is now OPEN.
What is the cost?
$925 per rider, you can also purchase a custom WaCanId Ride jersey (optional) for an additional $75.
What ride experience do I need to do this ride?
This ride is considered an intermediate to advanced ride. Your average day is approximately 70 miles, on this mostly mountain valley route which includes some climbs – you are after all, riding in the Northern Rockies. Please refer to the daily descriptions where you will find elevation/grade charts. There are multiple SAG vehicles (with bike racks) for assistance if needed.
Do you have a ride limit?
Yes, and that will depend mostly on available accommodations for the riders. Please make your accommodation reservations early.
How will I know if you have filled up?
We will post information on the home page regarding space when it is near capacity. You can also call the Selkirk Loop office at 208-267-0822.
What is the weather like?
September sees temperatures in the 60s F (15.5 C) during the day and 40s F (4 C) at night. We are still in the dry season here; winter rain/snow typically starts in November. We should see gorgeous fall weather; however, be prepared!
What is the route?
The route follows the International Selkirk Loop as well as a couple of their “Super Side Trips” through Chewelah, Colville, Rossland and Castlegar for a total of 370 miles / 450 kilometers. Generally, the grades are moderate but there are a few climbs to give you a workout. See the route descriptions for more info. We will keep you on secondary paved roads whenever possible.
Click here for route descriptions .
How much baggage can I bring?
Baggage transport from Motel to Motel (or campground) is included, with a limit of one 50 lb bag per rider. If camping, two bags are accepted (one for luggage and the other for camping gear). Riders will be charged an additional cost of $45 (per bag) if you are over the bag limit. Do not tie any items (pump, shoes additional bag etc to the outside of your luggage). Items such as rain gear, sunglasses, sunscreen etc. will be up to the rider to carry.
Are E-bikes allowed?
Yes, with three requirements. 1. Please let us know you have an e-bike in the comments of your registration so that we can plan accordingly. 2. Your batteries need to have 100 mile capacity. 3. Riders must be prepared to carry their spare battery on the bike with them rather than putting it in a sag vehicle.
Are trailers allowed
No, trailers are not allowed.
Hotel or Campground?
Riders are responsible for making their own arrangements for lodging (see lodging page for recommended list) and luggage will only be delivered to the hotels and campgrounds on this list. We have tried to select a handful of accommodators at each nights location that offers basic to more upscale type rooms in a wide price range and identify the mileage distance to the next days start. If the accommodations on this list fill up, we may consider delivery outside of this list. Please contact us to inquire.
Where do I layover?
Due to popular demand, we have added a sixth day to the ride which means that you will layover in Nelson, BC . You’ll have an entire day to relax and explore the fun town of Nelson. After you have registered we will send you a list of ideas for activities, tours, rentals, massage, etc. and contact info so that you can make reservations where needed.
I would like to camp, is that available?
Yes, camping is available and is included on the accommodations list of each night. These camping locations include showers and restrooms. Your luggage and camping gear (two bags only) will be delivered to and picked up from the campground each day.
Are meals provided?
Lunch and snacks are provided during the days you are riding. Breakfast and dinner is on your own. Meal spots will be suggested to give you the best flavor of the area. You are welcome to dine as a group or venture out on your own- whichever you prefer.
Ride Support:
The route is fairly remote with light traffic and will be well marked and patrolled. Morning patrols will begin at 8:00 am every morning and evening sweep 5 pm. One exception will be day 5 – we will begin patrols earlier so that you have plenty of time to reach the ferry landing. Support cell phone numbers will be in your ride packet. Rest stops are about 20 miles apart depending on terrain and restroom availability. Snacks are included at rest stops. You will receive a Ride Map in your registration packet to help guide you. You can also download the turn by turn files to your device. The sweep vehicle and SAG vehicle will have basic bike maintenance equipment, i.e. pumps, oil, tubes, etc. as well as a first aid kit. Personal escort vehicles are welcome. However, if you have a personal escort vehicle that is carrying your luggage, please let us know on your registration so that our support vehicles are not looking for your luggage.
This is designed to be a noncompetitive, enjoy-the-scenery, ride. All proceeds go to Rotary charitable projects, both local and international. You’ll get to meet the local Rotarians during the ride.
My spouse (or friend) wants to provide SAG for me, is this allowed?
Yes, just let us know so that the luggage handlers aren’t expecting your bags.
What is the closest airport in US?
Spokane International (GEG) in eastern Washington is the best airport to use if flying in for the ride. Rental cars are available at the airport and Amtrack is available from Spokane to Sandpoint.
What is the closest airport in Canada?
Castlegar, BC. Air Canada flies into this airport.
I want to ship my bike, where is the best place?
There are two bike shops at the start location. One is Outdoor Experience, 314 N First Ave, Sandpoint, ID 83864, Phone: 208.263.6028 and the other is Syringa Cyclery, 518 Oak St, Sandpoint, ID 83864, Phone: 208.610.9990 Both will receive shipped bikes and put them together for a fee. They will also accept bikes at the end of the ride for return shipping. Another shop is the Bike Hub, 817 S Perry St, Ste C, Spokane, WA 99201 (509) 747-2231; for those riders that are flying into Spokane and want to use a shop there.
Where can I leave my car?
Please check the list of hotels for Sandpoint. We have indicated which hotels will allow you to leave your vehicle with them and which ones will not. We are working on other parking options and will post it here soon.
One more reminder, you will need a passport or enhanced drivers license to cross the US – Canada border. More information can be found here.
