Today, I made my annual pilgrimage to one of the best road climbs in the State of Idaho, the Old Whitebird Grade from Whitebird to Grangeville. I was fortunate today to ride along with one of my favorite all time riding partners, Mr. George Hamilton and the top sprinter from his woman’s professional cycling team, Hagens Bermen, Harriet Owen! The climb starts just outside Whitebird along the Salmon River.
After a mile of warmup, the ride crosses under Highway 95, a view which few people see as they buzz by the the town of Whitebird below.
As short roll through town and the climb commences.
Ummm, this sign may be the worlds greatest understatement!
We started early today but it was still hot, soon I was off the back! Here is a great shot looking back at the shoe lace switch backs
Picture of the day!
Picture of the day runner up!
More switchbacks!
View from the top of the switchbacks…
Top of the climb!!
An out and back to Grangeville and back down the way we came!
Back at the Salmon, its now 95 degrees at the bottom…. the river is a refreshing break! A few ride stats, 4050 feet total climb, 47 miles out and back, ride time, just under 3 hours….. slightly less for Tad and Harriet, not going to say how much!