If you're looking for a fun trip cycling in the Pacific Northwest, then consider heading to the Pacific Crest Bike Trail. This trail runs parallel to the famed Pacific Crest Trail. The PCT is one of the country's most famed hiking routes. The route stretches from Vancouver, British Columbia, and stretches all the way down to Mexico.
The northern section, the parts in the Pacific Northwest, pass through North Cascades Nation Park. This is a beautiful park with stunning mountain ranges, glaciers, rugged landscape, wildlife (timber wolf, bobcat, moose and elk) and beautiful flowers.
In order to enjoy the ride, you will need to prep your mountain bike and get the right gear ready. Below is a list of what you will need.
Cycling Rain Jacket and Pants
The Pacific Northwest is a gorgeous place, but it can get wet. So you want to make sure you're not caught out in the rain unprepared. You will need to get a pair of lightweight, rainproof pants and a cycling jacket. It's important that they be lightweight so that when you're not using them you can store them away in your panniers.
Waterproof Gloves
Don't forget to wear waterproof gloves. If you're the type of person who wears gloves to prevent blisters, then don't make the mistake of wearing regular gloves. These can become saturated with water and make you feel very uncomfortable. Instead, choose waterproof gloves.
Small Pop Up Tent
Biking the Pacific Crest Bike Trail is going to put you out in the middle of the wilderness, so you need to bring your own housing. There are spots where you can't hope to find a hotel, so you're going to have to camp out for the night. A small pop up (waterproof) tent is essential. Look for one that is designed to fold down small enough to fit in a bike pannier.
Waterproof Panniers
Panniers are essential for a long bike ride. For the Pacific Crest Trail, you're going to want to make sure that they are waterproof. On the southern end of the Pacific Crest Trail, you will be riding through dry dessert locales, but on the Northern end you will be in forests where rain is common.
Chain Lube, Tool Kit, Extra Brake Pads
Wet weather requires extra care for your bike. You should carry a tube of chain lube. You should also bring a tool kit that will allow you to change out the brake pads (plus extra pads). Lots of ridding in muddy terrain can cause brake pads to get beaten up fast. The mud splashes up and bits of pebbles, dirt, and other debris can speed up the normal wear on the brakes.