The Necessities

Safety Gear

Being visible and equipped with personal safety gear including the essential helmet are imperative when traveling this route. All bikes should have front and rear reflectors as well as flashing taillights for daytime travel. For early morning, dusk, or evening travel, a headlight is a must. Clothing should be reflective and/or brightly colored to increase your visibility to motorists. Bring a fully equipped first-aid kit with personal identification.

Bike Gear

Be prepared for cold and hot weather conditions at any time of the year. Rain gear and warm layers, including water-resistant gloves and socks, will keep your body temperature stable in case of damp conditions. Long sleeved shirts, sunscreen, and sunglasses will help protect from intense mountain sun. Remember to carry extra bike tubes, a patch kit, and a tire pump for on-road repairs.

Water

Water is essential for a pleasant pedaling trip. Make sure to keep water bottles filled and stay hydrated. Check on distances between fill-up areas (see map). If filtering water, use care not to disturb soils or plants by utilizing rocks as stepping stones near streams. Giardia and other contaminants may be present in cold running water, so filter (with finest mesh available) or boil all water.

Food

Adequate nutrition is a must. There is only one store between Marblemount and Mazama. Take extra food. Concentrated nutrition such as sports bars and "energy drinks" is an easy and compact way to keep strength sustained for the whole trip.

Things to Watch Out For Along State Route 20

Rocks & Water

Fantastic geologic scenery is both beautiful and threatening. Watch out for rolling rocks on the road and wet roadways. Waterfalls may distract drivers from watching for cyclists.

Traffic

Because bicyclists will be sharing the road with motorized Park visitors, special considerations must be made for road travel. Use caution when on blind corners and hills. Although the shoulder line separates the bicyclist's path from that of the motorist, both motorists and bicyclists can cross these lines at anytime. Stay alert and be visible using head and taillights and reflective clothing.

Tunnels

Between the towns of Newhalem and Diablo there are two tunnels. The longer one is closer to Newhalem and is fitted with a "BIKES IN TUNNEL" flashing safety light that can be turned on at either end. Watch for rocks and, before entering tunnels, turn on all head and taillights. Reduced road space can force cars and bikes together.

Other Bicyclists

Stay alert since you will also be sharing the road with other cyclists. Know & use the correct hand signals. Think ahead and know what to do if you do meet other cyclists. Be comfortable with explaining to others what it takes to make a safe trip.

Road Closures

State Route 20 is normally closed by snow from mid-November into April. Closures and poor conditions due to weather, construction, snow depth and avalanche hazards may occur at any time of the year. Check before departure by calling park headquarters.