-Slideshow below/Gallery–
(Photos © J. Maus)
One of my favorite things about Pedalpalooza is that it’s an ideal way to explore the city and ride to new places under the comforting guidance of a ride leader.
I’m a bit embarrassed to admit that, prior to last night, I had never biked up to the top of Rocky Butte.
Rocky Butte is a natural area in outer Northeast Portland and there’s an outcropping near its highest point where you can take in 360-degree views. Last night, a large group met up at Irving Park for the fourth annual Rocky Butte Sunset Ride to enjoy some of those views.
There was Mt. Jefferson to the south, Mt. Hood directly east, and Mt. St. Helens to the north. There was also a huge potluck, lots of nice people, and, as a bonus, a thrilling downhill descent on the way home accentuated with warm breeze and twinkling city lights. I must say, it was a magical introduction to Rocky Butte.
See more photos in the gallery or watch the slideshow below: