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FRI DEC 1 1/T/34 Bay Trail / E-ville / Point Richmond 
Leader: Arleen Sakamoto     (415) 279-6248
Leader: Kenneth Karda   (510) 530-8389
Meet at 9:45 am for a 10:00 am start
Start Location: Brickyard Cove, Berkeley
Pre-registration

We will ride to the Emeryville marina, then North on the Bay Trail for a clockwise loop to the Red Oak Victory Ship, Miller-Knox Park, Ferry Point Tunnel, & lunch @ Little Louie's. There will be an option to bypass the tunnel.

SAT DEC 2 2/LT/34 Croissant and Hot Cocoa: Rustic Bakery 
Leader: Siu Mak     (510) 229-0090    text
Meet at 8:45 am for a 9:00 am start
Start Location: North Berkeley BART
Pre-registration
UPDATE:

With chance of showers through the night and Saturday morning, this ride is now canceled. Even if it stops drizzling the roads will be wet. Please join Sunday’s introductory ride!

Join our 1st-Saturday cafe ride over the Richmond-San Rafael Bridge for croissant and hot cocoa at Marin Country Mart. New riders and beginners are welcome! This is a NO-DROP ride with plenty of stops. Most of the route is on dedicated bike path. Watch out for train tracks in Richmond. Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/38019355

SAT DEC 2 5/TM/36-38 Walls Around Mama 
Leader: David Cone     (510) 684-3874
Leader: Stephanie Clarke     (510) 423-1873    text
Meet at 9:15 am for a 9:30 am start
Start Location: North Berkeley BART
Pre-registration
UPDATE:

30% chance of POP means we are postponing the ride until the rain date, Dec. 10th. Check back next week and hope for good post-holiday-party weather!

How spicy do you like it? With two leaders, this local ride is designed to support climbers at different levels of fitness, ambition and/or oxygen debt. The humane version, at a humane pace, does almost 3800 cumulative feet of climbing in 38 miles, including Arlington, back side of Hillcrest, Santa Rita, Mama Bear, Happy Valley, Toyonal. The extra-picante version adds in Amend and Lomas Cantadas, for 4300' in just 36 miles. We'll regroup in Dalewood Park to sort out who wants to climb all the way up to the steam trains and who wants to do Toyonal-Wildcat. Rain cancels; if the weather is iffy, check here for updates or text the leaders.

SUN DEC 3 1/LT/20 🙂 GPC Club Introductory Ride - Point Richmond via Bay Trail🙂 
Leader: Daniel Stoops     (206) 383-0904    text
Leader: Abigail Cotton     (949) 929-3714    text
Meet at 12:30 pm
Start Location: North Berkeley BART
Pre-registration

Come ride with us - non-members are welcome! This ride is intended to be an introduction to riding with GPC, and is appropriate for new / newer / getting-back-into it riders. Pace is Leisurely-Touring (LT), averaging ~12mph on this flat ride. To keep it fun for all, this is a NO DROP ride and will have several re-groups along the route.

Meet at North Berkeley BART and ride to Point Richmond and back, mostly along the Bay Trail. No hills on this one! We'll have a rest stop in Point Richmond where riders can refuel with the excellent offerings at Kaleidoscope Coffee.

RideWithGPS: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/41635843

MON DEC 4 5!/TM/20 Tilden in the Dark 
Leader: Fletcher Stump Smith     (415) 212-8451    text
Meet at 5:05 pm for a 5:10 pm start
Start Location: El Cerrito Plaza BART
Pre-registration

Bring big tires and bright lights and be prepared to climb. Most of the climbing will be on trails and in the dark, with a few section that are quite steep so come prepared. See last weeks ride for an example of what to expect, but the route might change a bit depending on trail conditions, time, and group size. Expect 2.5k - 3k feet of elevation gain

WED DEC 6 2/L/35 to 4/T/50 Wed Ride - Deb's Diversion 
Meet at 10:00 am for a 10:15 am start
Pre-registration
This is a placeholder ride for planning only. The leader needs to update it with more information.

No official Ride this week due to high chance of precipitation.

Miles and smiles, hills and thrills, lunches and lattes. This listing will be updated when the route and leader have been determined, usually by Monday evening. Meet at 10:00 am (usually) for this ride. Rain cancels. You can also join our web forum and check the forum archives for the current information or contact Mark Sapiro at (415) 388-8910.

THU DEC 7 3/TM,M/69 Duros West - Petaluma via Spring Hill 
Leader: Mark Nienberg     (510) 812-9312    text
Meet at 9:30 am   Rain Date: Fri Dec 8
GPC Route: Marinwood to Petaluma via Spring Hill
Start Location: San Rafael - Marinwood Community Center
UPDATE:

Postponed until tomorrow (Friday) due to likely rain. Pre-register on the Friday ride listing.

The weather looks a bit unsettled this week. Check back here for possible postponement to the Friday rain date.

From Miller Creek we'll ride through Nicasio, Hick's Valley, and Chileno Valley. Then into Petaluma on the beautifully paved Spring Hill Road for lunch at Ray's Deli & Tavern. Return via Red Hill.

Shorten the ride to 49 miles by meeting us in Nicasio, probably about 10:20.

There is often a faster (more like M pace) group on this ride, but we all come back together at frequent regroups and lunch. Faster riders should feel free to push on after lunch. Just tell the leader first. Arrive by the meeting time if you don't want to chase.

THU DEC 7 5!/TM/16.5 Thursday Evening South Park Repeats (repeats weekly) 
Leader: Anne Schonfield     (510) 851-4749    text
Leader: Mark Bauer     (510) 508-3546
Meet at 5:20 pm for a 5:30 pm start
Start Location: North Berkeley BART
Pre-registration
UPDATE:

The ride is happening tonight! Roads are wet so we probably won't do S. Park (too wet on the descent). Let's meet at 5:20 pm as planned, we'll ride to Spruce/Grizzly Peak then decide on the route from there. Please join us!

Please join us for a weekly Thursday evening ride. This is a short ride but with a steep climb! We’ll head up Virginia St and Spruce to Spruce/Grizzly Peak for our first regroup, then head out along Wildcat Canyon to South Park Rd. From there, we’ll climb South Park, descend, and climb it again as many times as the mood strikes us (usually two or three times is enough, but individual riders can shorten or lengthen the ride as desired). South Park is closed to cars starting November 1st, which makes it perfect for winter riding. If we complete two round trip ascents up South Park then back to N Berkeley Bart, expect about 2,300 feet of elevation gain. This is a great way to stay in shape over the winter!

NOTE: This is a night ride. Come with bright front and rear lights (and make sure they work). 20% chance or greater of rain cancels the ride. Please contact ride leaders with any questions.
https://ridewithgps.com/routes/41240468

THU DEC 7 5/0/17 Thirsty Thursday Mixty (repeats weekly) 
Leader: Mike Wood     (708) 539-9663    text
Leader: Drew U     (510) 290-0615    text
Meet at 5:30 pm for a 5:35 pm start
GPC Route: CCB Mixed Terrain Short
Start Location: Canyon Club Brewery
Pre-registration

Fun group of ~8-10 people every week.

Mixed Terrain loop from Canyon Club Brewery (CCB) via roads and trails

CCB > South Pinehurst > East Ridge (Redwood) > Skyline > The View (Sibley) > Volcano Loop > Wild Dirt (Wilder) > Lost Valley > Mira Shortcut > Moraga Way > CCB

THU DEC 7 2/T/13.6 Thursday TI Lap (repeats weekly) 
Leader: Julien Li     (678) 232-8031
Leader: Anne Gulley     (707) 330-5933
Meet at 5:30 pm
Start Location: Emeryville - Opposite IKEA
Pre-registration

We won't call it a hot lap unless you want to time yourself. Short and sweaty ride to ward off winter apathy.

Route Link

FRI DEC 8 3/TM,M/69 [Rain Date] Duros West - Petaluma via Spring Hill 
Leader: Mark Nienberg     (510) 812-9312    text
Meet at 9:30 am
Pre-registration
UPDATE:

Ride is on for Friday. Thursday was rained out.

See the listing for Thu Dec 7. If that ride was rained out, we will try again today. Contact the ride leader if you aren't sure.
SAT DEC 9 3/LT/18 Alex's Second Saturday Ride - LT pace - Lamorinda CCW 
Leader: Liz Kroboth     (703) 338-4897    text
Leader: Maggie Wang     (408) 888-3033    text
Meet at 9:00 am for a 9:20 am start
GPC Route: ASSR - LT - Lamorinda CCW
Start Location: Orinda BART NW corner of parking lot
Pre-registration

Ride with LT pace! Meet at 9:00 for socializing and introductions. After that, we split into five separate pace groups. See more information about this ride on our website.

This is a NO DROP ride with a Philz cafe stop at downtown Lafayette.

SAT DEC 9 3/T/50 Alex's Second Saturday Ride - T pace - Classic Adagio 
Leader: David Madson     (415) 722-5885    text
Leader: Brian Crowley     (510) 508-2591
Meet at 9:00 am for a 9:20 am start
GPC Route: ASSR - T - Classic Adagio
Start Location: Orinda BART NW corner of parking lot
Pre-registration

Ride with T pace! Meet at 9:00 for socializing and introductions. After that, we split into five separate pace groups. See more information about this ride on our website.

This is a NO DROP ride with a Peets lunch stop at downtown Danville.

SAT DEC 9 4/TM/34 Alex's Second Saturday Ride - TM pace (short) - Classic Andante 
Leader: Ilan Eyman     (510) 388-9764    text
Meet at 9:00 am for a 9:20 am start
GPC Route: ASSR - TM (short) - Classic Andante
Start Location: Orinda BART NW corner of parking lot
Pre-registration

Ride with TM pace! Meet at 9:00 for socializing and introductions. After that, we split into five separate pace groups. See more information about this ride on our website.

SAT DEC 9 4/M/TM/48 Alex's Second Saturday Ride - M/TM pace 
Leader: Ted Ognibene     (510) 914-1065    text
Meet at 9:00 am for a 9:20 am start
Start Location: Orinda BART NW corner of parking lot
Pre-registration

Ride with M / TM pace! Meet at 9:00 for socializing and introductions. After that, we split into five separate pace groups. See more information about this ride on our website.

Modified route so that we can make it to the GPC party: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/45127300

There would be no lunch stop as the goal would be to finish the ride before 2 pm.

SAT DEC 9 🎉 GPC Holiday Party 🎊 
Leader: Jessica Jensen     (510) 508-6389    text
Leader: Abigail Cotton     (949) 929-3714    text
Leader: Mary Ann Jawili     (661) 343-5737    text
Meet at 4:00 pm for a 4:00 pm start
UPDATE:

NOTE: The venue has changed since our GPC-Talk announcement on November 16. We’ll now be at the Albany Community Center.

Come one, come all to the annual club holiday party! This year we're switching things up a bit - while the party will be held on the second Saturday in December, we won't be having the party in conjunction with the ride. Instead, you can ride ASSR in the morning, go home, get dolled up, and then come join us at the Albany Community Center and have a jolly good time for the evening with your fellow festive Grizzlies!

The party will be catered with heavy appetizers and beverages, but please bring your favorite holiday dish to share as well! The venue has a kitchen and patio for us to use (e.g. refrigeration, bike parking, outdoor socializing) if needed during our party.

Please RSVP so that we can plan accordingly: https://bit.ly/2023-gpc-holiday-rsvp

Date, time: Saturday, December 9th, 4 to 7PM

Location: Albany Community Center, 1249 Marin Ave, Albany, CA 94706

SUN DEC 10 5/TM/36-38 Walls Around Mama 
Leader: David Cone     (510) 684-3874
Leader: Stephanie Clarke     (510) 423-1873    text
Meet at 9:15 am for a 9:30 am start
Start Location: North Berkeley BART
Pre-registration

(Re-scheduled due to damp weather on Dec. 2)
How spicy do you like it? With two leaders, this local ride is designed to support climbers at different levels of fitness, ambition and/or oxygen debt. The humane version, at a humane pace, does almost 3800 cumulative feet of climbing in 38 miles, including Arlington, back side of Hillcrest, Santa Rita, Mama Bear, Happy Valley, Toyonal. The extra-picante version adds in Amend and Lomas Cantadas, for 4300' in just 36 miles. We'll regroup in Dalewood Park to sort out who wants to climb all the way up to the steam trains and who wants to do Toyonal-Wildcat. Rain cancels; if the weather is iffy, check here for updates or text the leaders.

WED DEC 13 3/T/35-47 Wed Ride - Cheese Factory Loop  
Leader: Jaz Zaitlin     (510) 393-6602    text
Meet at 10:00 am for a 10:15 am start
GPC Route: Cheese Factory from Miller Creek
Start Location: San Rafael - Marinwood Community Center
Pre-registration

We will ride from Miller Creek Community Center out through Novato, to Stafford Lake for a regroup, and then stop for lunch at Marin French Cheese Co., formerly known as the Cheese Factory. Then we'll head back through Nicasio and Lucas Valley Road. Ride is 35 miles with just under 2000 ft of climbing. You may extend the ride by adding an out-and-back to Point Reyes Station which will add 12 more miles. Current forecast is partly sunny but cool so dress accordingly. Bring or buy lunch at the Marin French Cheese company.

Restrooms and on-street parking at Marinwood Community Center.

Please pre-register.

WED DEC 13 5!/TM/20 Tilden in the Dark 
Leader: Fletcher Stump Smith     (415) 212-8451    text
Meet at 5:05 pm for a 5:10 pm start
Start Location: El Cerrito Plaza BART
Pre-registration

Bring big tires and bright lights and be prepared to climb. Most of the climbing will be on trails and in the dark, with a few section that are quite steep so come prepared. See last weeks ride for an example of what to expect, but the route might change a bit depending on trail conditions, time, and group size. Expect 2.5k - 3k feet of elevation gain. If you are interested in the ride but don't have a suitable light I have an extra one I can lend out, just email me ahead of time and plan on showing up a little early so we can set it up.

THU DEC 14 3/TM,M/74 Duros West - Drakes Beach 
Leader: Mark Nienberg     (510) 812-9312    text
Meet at 9:30 am
GPC Route: Drake's Beach from Marinwood
Start Location: San Rafael - Marinwood Community Center
Pre-registration

We'll ride through Nicasio and Olema on our way to Drakes beach in Point Reyes National Seashore. Pick up lunch at the Inverness Park Market on the way and take it with us to the beach. Order ahead if you like. We return through Pt. Reyes Station.

Shorten the ride by 20 miles by starting in Nicasio. We should roll through there at about 10:15. Pre-registration is appreciated.

There is often a faster (more like M pace) group on this ride, but we all come back together at frequent regroups and lunch. Faster riders should feel free to push on after lunch. Just tell the leader first. We will start when everyone who arrives by the meeting time is ready. If you arrive after the meeting time, you may have to chase. You can probably catch us in Nicasio or Inverness Park.

THU DEC 14 5!/TM/16.5 Thursday Evening South Park Repeats (repeats weekly) 
Leader: Anne Schonfield     (510) 851-4749    text
Leader: Mark Bauer     (510) 508-3546
Meet at 5:20 pm for a 5:30 pm start
Start Location: North Berkeley BART
Pre-registration

Please join us for a weekly Thursday evening ride. This is a short ride but with a steep climb! We’ll head up Virginia St and Spruce to Spruce/Grizzly Peak for our first regroup, then head out along Wildcat Canyon to South Park Rd. From there, we’ll climb South Park, descend, and climb it again as many times as the mood strikes us (usually two or three times is enough, but individual riders can shorten or lengthen the ride as desired). South Park is closed to cars starting November 1st, which makes it perfect for winter riding. If we complete two round trip ascents up South Park then back to N Berkeley Bart, expect about 2,300 feet of elevation gain. This is a great way to stay in shape over the winter!

NOTE: This is a night ride. Come with bright front and rear lights (and make sure they work). 20% chance or greater of rain cancels the ride. Please contact ride leaders with any questions.
https://ridewithgps.com/routes/41240468

THU DEC 14 5/0/17 Thirsty Thursday Mixty (repeats weekly) 
Leader: Mike Wood     (708) 539-9663    text
Leader: Drew U     (510) 290-0615    text
Meet at 5:30 pm for a 5:35 pm start
GPC Route: CCB Mixed Terrain Short
Start Location: Canyon Club Brewery
Pre-registration

Fun group of ~8-10 people every week.

Mixed Terrain loop from Canyon Club Brewery (CCB) via roads and trails

CCB > South Pinehurst > East Ridge (Redwood) > Skyline > The View (Sibley) > Volcano Loop > Wild Dirt (Wilder) > Lost Valley > Mira Shortcut > Moraga Way > CCB

THU DEC 14 2/T/13.6 Thursday TI Lap (repeats weekly) 
Leader: Anne Gulley     (707) 330-5933
Leader: David Gould     (206) 471-3272    text
Leader: Rick Patterson     (510) 978-1786    text
Meet at 5:30 pm
Start Location: Emeryville - Opposite IKEA
Pre-registration

We won't call it a hot lap unless you want to time yourself. Short and sweaty ride to ward off winter apathy.

Route Link

SAT DEC 16 5/TM/53.4 Sonoma Getaway: Pine Mountain and Geysers  
Leader: Terri Bimes     (510) 697-1400
Leader: Abigail Cotton     (949) 929-3714    text
Leader: Stephen Cotton     (949) 929-6439    text
Leader: Anne Schonfield     (510) 851-4749    text
Meet at 9:00 am for a 9:15 am start
Mandatory pre-registration

Come join Team Epic Climb as we climb Pine Mountain and Geysers in Sonoma County on Saturday. Sonoma County is beautiful. If the climbs don't take your breath away, the scenery will. We'd love for you to join us.

Things to bring: 1. Sense of Adventure 2. Food and water 3. Lots of clothing layers. This is our first time doing this route. We know there are bathrooms at the start and the end of the ride. But we are unsure what the bathroom situation is mid-ride. Also make sure to bring your lunch and two bottles of water.

This ride will have a TM, T, and a TM/M option:

TM Pace: Terri and Anne Schonfield will be leading this pace group.

T Pace: Abby Cotton will be riding at a T pace and would love to have T-paced riders join her. This T group will start and regroup with TM, but will expect to ascend at a slower T pace. Please note we expect this to be a beautiful but challenging ride, so you should be a confident climber, ideally having tackled a summit like Mt Diablo or Mt Tam, or have the strong desire to do so.

TM/M Pace: Steve Cotton will be leading the super fast riders.

30% chance of rain cancels. Rain date is Dec. 23rd.

Pine Mountain and Geysers: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/45114484

53.4 miles // 5,948 feet of climbing

Start Place: Cloverdale City Park: 450 W 2nd St, Cloverdale, CA 95425 google map link

Meet: 9:00 a.m.

Roll: 9:15 a.m.

**Registration is mandatory -- so that we know you are coming. Plus, if it looks like rain on Saturday, we can more easily contact you.

More Information about Pine Mountain and the Geysers Climbs (Taken from various websites):

Pine Mountain

Ride 4.9 miles gaining 2,020’ at 7.4% average grade.

This is a very scenic and challenging climb in northern Sonoma County beginning at the eastern edge of Cloverdale. Though it’s beautiful year round, we recommend it most highly in the springtime. The most difficult section of the climb comes at the beginning (first mile at 11% and the first 2½ miles are 9.1%). The Pine Mountain climb is ranked #7 in Sonoma County.

Geysers Road South

This one is ALL climb - 8.7% gaining 1,840' with 0 descent! 61% (2.5 miles) of the climb is at 5-10% grade, and 31% (1.2 miles) is at 10-15%. The gradient profile does not register above 15%, but, according to my Garmin (unless I was hallucinating . . . a possibility ) the grade does briefly hit 16%. The steepest quarter-mile is 12.4% and steepest continuous mile 9.6%.

SAT DEC 16 2/T/28 Pleasant Hill to Draeger's Market, Blackhawk Plaza 
Leader: Jim O'Melia     (925) 804-1855    text
Leader: Geoffrey Shannon     (925) 348-5067    text
Meet at 9:45 am for a 10:00 am start
GPC Route: Lunch at Blackhawk Plaza
Start Location: Pleasant Hill BART
Pre-registration

https://ridewithgps.com/routes/29607773

A pleasant flat ride from Pleasant Hill BART to Blackhawk Plaza for lunch at Draeger's Market. Then, ride back taking Blackhawk Road.

Pace 12-13 mph.

SUN DEC 17 2/T/63 Third Sunday Ride: Solstice Metric 
Leader: Adele Madelo     (510) 773-0693
Meet at 8:45 am
Start Location: Orinda BART NW corner of parking lot
Pre-registration
UPDATE:

Alas, after consulting with three different weather services, I am canceling today's ride. If we're out there, it will be cold and miserable.

Let's usher in those additional seconds of daylight with this ride a few days before the actual solstice. (This year Winter Solstice is Dec 21.) Note that this ride starts an hour early, so we can return to Orinda BART before it turns dark. See route here, which, like its name suggests, takes us down to San Ramon and Dublin and back up to Orinda. There will be several regroups and it'll be friendly, but please note that this is not a no-drop ride. A couple bailouts include Dublin/Pleasanton BART near mile 37.5 and Lafayette BART at mile 58.4.

WED DEC 20 2/L/35 to 4/T/50 Wed Ride - Deb's Diversion 
Meet at 10:00 am for a 10:15 am start
Pre-registration
UPDATE:

Canceled due to rain.

Miles and smiles, hills and thrills, lunches and lattes. This listing will be updated when the route and leader have been determined, usually by Monday evening. Meet at 10:00 am (usually) for this ride. Rain cancels. You can also join our web forum and check the forum archives for the current information or contact Mark Sapiro at (415) 388-8910.

THU DEC 21 3/TM,M/68 Duros West - Winter Solstice in Winters 
Leader: Mark Nienberg     (510) 812-9312    text
Meet at 9:30 am   Rain Date: Fri Dec 22
GPC Route: Rockville - Winters loop CW
Start Location: Rockville Bike shop
Pre-registration

If the unsettled weather continues into Thursday, this ride might be postponed one day until the rain date Friday. Check back here to be sure.

We'll celebrate the Winter Solstice by riding to Winters. We'll also test the theory that riding this loop clockwise might be better, since most of the climbing will be before lunch, and perhaps a little easier.

Please park in the back of the lot at Rockville Bikes, not in front of the businesses. There is often a faster (more like M pace) group on this ride, but we all come back together at frequent regroups and lunch. Faster riders should feel free to push on after lunch. Just tell the leader first.

THU DEC 21 5!/TM/16.5 Thursday Evening South Park Repeats (repeats weekly) 
Leader: Anne Schonfield     (510) 851-4749    text
Leader: Mark Bauer     (510) 508-3546
Meet at 5:20 pm for a 5:30 pm start
Start Location: North Berkeley BART
Pre-registration
UPDATE:

We're on for tonight Dec. 21. Please join us for a solstice ride, shortest day of the year!

Please join us for a weekly Thursday evening ride. This is a short ride but with a steep climb! We’ll head up Virginia St and Spruce to Spruce/Grizzly Peak for our first regroup, then head out along Wildcat Canyon to South Park Rd. From there, we’ll climb South Park, descend, and climb it again as many times as the mood strikes us (usually two or three times is enough, but individual riders can shorten or lengthen the ride as desired). South Park is closed to cars starting November 1st, which makes it perfect for winter riding. If we complete two round trip ascents up South Park then back to N Berkeley Bart, expect about 2,300 feet of elevation gain. This is a great way to stay in shape over the winter!

NOTE: This is a night ride. Come with bright front and rear lights (and make sure they work). 20% chance or greater of rain cancels the ride. Please contact ride leaders with any questions.
https://ridewithgps.com/routes/41240468

THU DEC 21 5/0/17 Thirsty Thursday Mixty (repeats weekly) 
Leader: Mike Wood     (708) 539-9663    text
Leader: Drew U     (510) 290-0615    text
Meet at 5:30 pm for a 5:35 pm start
GPC Route: CCB Mixed Terrain Short
Start Location: Canyon Club Brewery
Pre-registration

Fun group of ~8-10 people every week.

Mixed Terrain loop from Canyon Club Brewery (CCB) via roads and trails

CCB > South Pinehurst > East Ridge (Redwood) > Skyline > The View (Sibley) > Volcano Loop > Wild Dirt (Wilder) > Lost Valley > Mira Shortcut > Moraga Way > CCB

THU DEC 21 2/T/13.6 Thursday TI Lap (repeats weekly) 
Leader: Anne Gulley     (707) 330-5933
Leader: David Gould     (206) 471-3272    text
Leader: Rick Patterson     (510) 978-1786    text
Meet at 5:30 pm
Start Location: Emeryville - Opposite IKEA
Pre-registration

We won't call it a hot lap unless you want to time yourself. Short and sweaty ride to ward off winter apathy.

Route Link

FRI DEC 22 3/TM,M/68 [Rain Date] Duros West - Winter Solstice in Winters 
Leader: Mark Nienberg     (510) 812-9312    text
Meet at 9:30 am
See the listing for Thu Dec 21. If that ride was rained out, we will try again today. Contact the ride leader if you aren't sure.
SAT DEC 23 5/T/59 Old Railroad grade/Marin headlands from El Cerrito 
Leader: Fletcher Stump Smith     (415) 212-8451    text
Leader: Mary Ann Jawili     (661) 343-5737    text
Meet at 8:30 am for a 8:40 am start
Start Location: El Cerrito Plaza BART
Pre-registration

Ride with GPS Route

It's been raining earlier this week but let's get out and ride some fire roads. The route was chosen to minimize mud but I can't rule out the possibility. Depending on conditions some adjustments to the route may be made during the ride. Mud aside, I don't expect any of the dirt sections to be too difficult for a gravel bike but there might be a few brief steep sections. Days are getting shorter so we'll be keeping the stops relatively short but there will be time for lunch at Mile 41 at Good Earth foods.

Bring layers in case it gets cold and windy. We aim to be back before well before dark it's good to have lights just in case. At least 38mm wide tires recommended.

SAT DEC 23 5/TM/63.4 Epic Climb Ride: Saratoga, Big Basin, Jamison Creek, Boulder Creek and Back  
Leader: Terri Bimes     (510) 697-1400
Leader: Stephen Cotton     (949) 929-6439    text
Leader: Abigail Cotton     (949) 929-3714    text
Meet at 9:00 am for a 9:15 am start
Pre-registration
UPDATE:

Please bring lights. Also, there is an option to cut Jamison Creek climb and just meet the group in Boulder Creek for lunch. Bypassing Jamison cuts 1800 feet / 7-8 miles and some of the hardest climbing of the ride

Are you ready for some more epic climbing? This weekend we take on three epic climbs in the South Bay. We hope you can join! Finish off the year with an epic bike ride!

  1. Hwy 9 (Low-Key Hillclimbs) Saratoga -- 10.94 km (6.8 miles), 636 m elevation (2087 feet), Avg. grade is 5.8% with the steepest quarter at 8.1%
  2. Jamison Creek: 4.65 km (2.88 miles), 454 m elevation gain (1489 feet) Avg. grade is 9.8% with the steepest quarter at 15.1%
  3. Hwy 9 (Bear Creek to 35--Skyline) -- 21.26 km (13.2 miles), 633 m elevation (2076 feet), Avg. grade 3.0% Steepest quarter 7.3%

Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/45192120 63.4 miles / 7,865 feet of climbing

Start Place: Foothill Park next to Foothill Elementary School in Saratoga -- google map link *Not sure if there are bathrooms at start. Best to take care of business before we roll.

Lunch will be in Boulder Creek. There are a few markets where you can order a sandwich. This ride is not as remote as the Geysers. There will be places to get water along the way. Still a good idea to bring two bottles of water and some food. Also, bring lots of layers of clothing.

*30% chance of rain cancels.

SUN DEC 24 5/T/21 GPC Bike Maintenance Workshop (4th Sunday) 
Leader: Wendell Doman     (415) 515-6761    text
Leader: Mark A. Seedall     (510) 388-5282
Leader: Rick Patterson     (510) 978-1786    text
Leader: Geoffrey Fowler     (510) 593-4515    text
Meet at 9:00 am
GPC Route: Heather Farm to Diablo Junction
Start Location: Walnut Creek - Heather Farm
Pre-registration

Time: 9am to 10am

Come join fellow Grizzlies who will help you learn how to maintain your bike and keep it in top running condition. We'll check out the condition of your bikes (i.e., tires, chain, brakes, wheels, cables, etc.), give you some advice and show you the tools you'd need.

We'll go for a ride to Diablo Junction via Northgate Rd. at 10:15am.

What to bring to the clinic: Please bring your bike and any questions regarding bike maintenance. We will do our best to take a look at everyone’s bike and give maintenance tips.

Bring a friend. We'll have coffee and bagels!

TUE DEC 26 5/TM/41 Lake Chabot Trails 
Leader: Fletcher Stump Smith     (415) 212-8451    text
Meet at 8:45 am for a 9:00 am start
Start Location: Rockridge BART
Pre-registration

There has been a pause in the rain so let's take advantage of it and ride Chabot. See the Tentative Route, some adjustments to the route be made depending on trail conditions. 38mm or more tires are recommend and you should be comfortable riding on sometimes loose, bumpy, or steep terrain. There will be a stop at redwood canyon golf course for food, water and bathrooms, but selection is limited so bringing food is recommended. Note: RWGPS route shows 4267ft of elevation gain but strava shows 5107ft for the same route.

WED DEC 27 2/L/35 to 4/T/50 Wed Ride - Deb's Diversion 
Meet at 10:00 am for a 10:15 am start
UPDATE:

Ride is canceled due to rain.

Miles and smiles, hills and thrills, lunches and lattes. This listing will be updated when the route and leader have been determined, usually by Monday evening. Meet at 10:00 am (usually) for this ride. Rain cancels. You can also join our web forum and check the forum archives for the current information or contact Mark Sapiro at (415) 388-8910.

THU DEC 28 5/TM/37.8 Epic Climb Ride: Alba - Bonny Doon - Felton Empire 
Leader: Terri Bimes     (510) 697-1400
Meet at 9:00 am for a 9:15 am start
Mandatory pre-registration

Do you have any gas left in the tank for one more epic climb ride this year? It looks like there may be a break in the rain on Thursday. If the weather forecast is correct, I'd love to have some company for this epic ride. The route is 37.8 miles and 5,943 feet of climbing. We will tackle three climbs:

1. Alba Climb: Segment in Ben Lomond. 6.12km (3.8 miles), 611m elevation gain (2004 feet) Average grade is 10.0% with the steepest quarter mile at 15.4%

2. Bonny Doon + Pine Flat to Empire: Segment in Santa Cruz. 9.94km (6.17 miles), 573m (1879 feet) elevation gain. Average grade is 5.8% with the steepest quarter mile at 10.0%.

3. Felton Empire: Segment in Felton. 5.87km (3.6 miles), 435m (1427 feet) elevation gain. Average grade is 7.4% with the steepest quarter mile at 12.3%.

https://ridewithgps.com/routes/45222342

Meeting Place: Felton Covered Bridge County Park. The park website says they have bathrooms but if not, there is a Shell station right next to the park. Google Map Link.

What to bring: Food, warm clothing, two bottles of water, helmet.

Given the late posting of this ride, I am going to make registration mandatory. Also, 30% chance of rain cancels.

Hope you can join me!

THU DEC 28 4/TM,M/56 Duros West - Martinez 
Leader: Mark Nienberg     (510) 812-9312    text
Meet at 9:30 am
Start Location: Berkeley - Spruce & Grizzly Peak Blvd - north side
Pre-registration
UPDATE:

The forecast as of Wednesday eve is for a dry day. If it looks dubious in the morning, check back here for a status update, otherwise assume we are on!

It looks like there might be a dry day between storms, but the chance of rain has been increasing, so check back here for possible cancellation.

We'll ride a loop out to Martinez via Wildcat, SPDR, Castro Ranch, the Bay Trail, and Carquinez Scenic. After lunch we return via Alhambra, Bear Creek, and Wildcat. Feel free to join at the bottom of Wildcat or whatever works for you. Let me know if you want us to look for you.

See the route on RideWithGPS.

There is often a faster (more like M pace) group on this ride, but we all come back together at frequent regroups and lunch. Faster riders should feel free to push on after lunch. Just tell the leader first.

THU DEC 28 5!/TM/16.5 Thursday Evening South Park Repeats  
Leader: Anne Schonfield     (510) 851-4749    text
Leader: Abigail Cotton     (949) 929-3714    text
Meet at 5:20 pm for a 5:30 pm start
Start Location: North Berkeley BART
Pre-registration

[Note: Abby has kindly agreed to lead the ride on Dec. 28, since Anne and Mark are traveling).

Please join us for a weekly Thursday evening ride. This is a short ride but with a steep climb! We’ll head up Virginia St and Spruce to Spruce/Grizzly Peak for our first regroup, then head out along Wildcat Canyon to South Park Rd. From there, we’ll climb South Park, descend, and climb it again as many times as the mood strikes us (usually two or three times is enough, but individual riders can shorten or lengthen the ride as desired). South Park is closed to cars starting November 1st, which makes it perfect for winter riding. If we complete two round trip ascents up South Park then back to N Berkeley Bart, expect about 2,300 feet of elevation gain. This is a great way to stay in shape over the winter!

NOTE: This is a night ride. Come with bright front and rear lights (and make sure they work). 20% chance or greater of rain cancels the ride. Please contact ride leaders with any questions.
https://ridewithgps.com/routes/41240468

THU DEC 28 5/0/17 Thirsty Thursday Mixty (repeats weekly) 
Leader: Mike Wood     (708) 539-9663    text
Leader: Drew U     (510) 290-0615    text
Meet at 5:30 pm for a 5:35 pm start
GPC Route: CCB Mixed Terrain Short
Start Location: Canyon Club Brewery
Pre-registration

Fun group of ~8-10 people every week.

Mixed Terrain loop from Canyon Club Brewery (CCB) via roads and trails

CCB > South Pinehurst > East Ridge (Redwood) > Skyline > The View (Sibley) > Volcano Loop > Wild Dirt (Wilder) > Lost Valley > Mira Shortcut > Moraga Way > CCB

THU DEC 28 2/T/13.6 Thursday TI Lap (repeats weekly) 
Leader: Anne Gulley     (707) 330-5933
Leader: David Gould     (206) 471-3272    text
Leader: Rick Patterson     (510) 978-1786    text
Meet at 5:30 pm
Start Location: Emeryville - Opposite IKEA
Pre-registration

We won't call it a hot lap unless you want to time yourself. Short and sweaty ride to ward off winter apathy.

Route Link

SUN DEC 31 3/L/28 Berkeley to Port Costa Brunch 
Leader: Anne Gulley     (707) 330-5933
Meet at 8:30 am for a 8:40 am start
Start Location: North Berkeley BART
Pre-registration
UPDATE:

With this much rain on Fri/Sat Briones will be too muddy to cut through on Sunday. Route is updated to avoid the trails.

Bull Valley Roadhouse Sunday brunch finale to 2023! The plan is to ride Amtrak back to Berkeley after a bite in Port Costa. This was a super ride last year but there are some "unknowns." The route is updated this year, only a short 2.5 miles unpaved trail through Briones Regional park (91% road ride) to avoid mud. Come out for fun and food!

Amtrak is $13 Martinez to Berkeley and departs at 1:55 pm.

Ride with GPS Route

SUN DEC 31 1/LT/15 New Year's Revolutions (NYR) 🍾- Warmup - Alameda 
Leader: Daniel Stoops     (206) 383-0904    text
Meet at 11:00 am
Start Location: Fruitvale BART
Pre-registration

New Year's Revolutions (NYR) rides are designed for people who are newer to cycling or who have been off their bikes for a bit. These rides are generally shorter and at an easier pace (LT = 9-10 MPH average on hilly rides / 11-12 MPH on flat rides). These rides are also no-drop, so you don't have to worry about being left behind!

This Warmup ride tours very scenic and very flat Alameda - cross a drawbridge, pass Victorian houses, ride through an old Naval base, next to an aircraft carrier to spectacular views of downtown SF, along the waterfront, make a quick stop for sustenance at Highwire Coffee Roasters, and return to Fruitvale BART.

RideWithGPS Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/41633969

Leader: Arleen Sakamoto
   phone
Leader: Kenneth Karda
   phone
Start Location:
Brickyard Cove, Berkeley
Pre-registration

We will ride to the Emeryville marina, then North on the Bay Trail for a clockwise loop to the Red Oak Victory Ship, Miller-Knox Park, Ferry Point Tunnel, & lunch @ Little Louie's. There will be an option to bypass the tunnel.

Leader: Siu Mak
   mobile    text
Start Location:
North Berkeley BART
Pre-registration
UPDATE:

With chance of showers through the night and Saturday morning, this ride is now canceled. Even if it stops drizzling the roads will be wet. Please join Sunday’s introductory ride!

Join our 1st-Saturday cafe ride over the Richmond-San Rafael Bridge for croissant and hot cocoa at Marin Country Mart. New riders and beginners are welcome! This is a NO-DROP ride with plenty of stops. Most of the route is on dedicated bike path. Watch out for train tracks in Richmond. Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/38019355

Leader: David Cone
   phone
Leader: Stephanie Clarke
   mobile    text
Start Location:
North Berkeley BART
Pre-registration
UPDATE:

30% chance of POP means we are postponing the ride until the rain date, Dec. 10th. Check back next week and hope for good post-holiday-party weather!

How spicy do you like it? With two leaders, this local ride is designed to support climbers at different levels of fitness, ambition and/or oxygen debt. The humane version, at a humane pace, does almost 3800 cumulative feet of climbing in 38 miles, including Arlington, back side of Hillcrest, Santa Rita, Mama Bear, Happy Valley, Toyonal. The extra-picante version adds in Amend and Lomas Cantadas, for 4300' in just 36 miles. We'll regroup in Dalewood Park to sort out who wants to climb all the way up to the steam trains and who wants to do Toyonal-Wildcat. Rain cancels; if the weather is iffy, check here for updates or text the leaders.

Leader: Daniel Stoops
   mobile    text
Leader: Abigail Cotton
   mobile    text
Start Location:
North Berkeley BART
Pre-registration

Come ride with us - non-members are welcome! This ride is intended to be an introduction to riding with GPC, and is appropriate for new / newer / getting-back-into it riders. Pace is Leisurely-Touring (LT), averaging ~12mph on this flat ride. To keep it fun for all, this is a NO DROP ride and will have several re-groups along the route.

Meet at North Berkeley BART and ride to Point Richmond and back, mostly along the Bay Trail. No hills on this one! We'll have a rest stop in Point Richmond where riders can refuel with the excellent offerings at Kaleidoscope Coffee.

RideWithGPS: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/41635843

Leader: Fletcher Stump Smith
   mobile    text
Start Location:
El Cerrito Plaza BART
Pre-registration

Bring big tires and bright lights and be prepared to climb. Most of the climbing will be on trails and in the dark, with a few section that are quite steep so come prepared. See last weeks ride for an example of what to expect, but the route might change a bit depending on trail conditions, time, and group size. Expect 2.5k - 3k feet of elevation gain

Pre-registration
This is a placeholder ride for planning only. The leader needs to update it with more information.

No official Ride this week due to high chance of precipitation.

Miles and smiles, hills and thrills, lunches and lattes. This listing will be updated when the route and leader have been determined, usually by Monday evening. Meet at 10:00 am (usually) for this ride. Rain cancels. You can also join our web forum and check the forum archives for the current information or contact Mark Sapiro at (415) 388-8910.

Rain Date: Fri Dec 8
Leader: Mark Nienberg
   mobile    text
GPC Route:
Marinwood to Petaluma via Spring Hill
Start Location:
San Rafael - Marinwood Community Center
UPDATE:

Postponed until tomorrow (Friday) due to likely rain. Pre-register on the Friday ride listing.

The weather looks a bit unsettled this week. Check back here for possible postponement to the Friday rain date.

From Miller Creek we'll ride through Nicasio, Hick's Valley, and Chileno Valley. Then into Petaluma on the beautifully paved Spring Hill Road for lunch at Ray's Deli & Tavern. Return via Red Hill.

Shorten the ride to 49 miles by meeting us in Nicasio, probably about 10:20.

There is often a faster (more like M pace) group on this ride, but we all come back together at frequent regroups and lunch. Faster riders should feel free to push on after lunch. Just tell the leader first. Arrive by the meeting time if you don't want to chase.

Leader: Anne Schonfield
   mobile    text
Leader: Mark Bauer
   phone
Start Location:
North Berkeley BART
Pre-registration
UPDATE:

The ride is happening tonight! Roads are wet so we probably won't do S. Park (too wet on the descent). Let's meet at 5:20 pm as planned, we'll ride to Spruce/Grizzly Peak then decide on the route from there. Please join us!

Please join us for a weekly Thursday evening ride. This is a short ride but with a steep climb! We’ll head up Virginia St and Spruce to Spruce/Grizzly Peak for our first regroup, then head out along Wildcat Canyon to South Park Rd. From there, we’ll climb South Park, descend, and climb it again as many times as the mood strikes us (usually two or three times is enough, but individual riders can shorten or lengthen the ride as desired). South Park is closed to cars starting November 1st, which makes it perfect for winter riding. If we complete two round trip ascents up South Park then back to N Berkeley Bart, expect about 2,300 feet of elevation gain. This is a great way to stay in shape over the winter!

NOTE: This is a night ride. Come with bright front and rear lights (and make sure they work). 20% chance or greater of rain cancels the ride. Please contact ride leaders with any questions.
https://ridewithgps.com/routes/41240468

Leader: Mike Wood
   mobile    text
Leader: Drew U
   mobile    text
GPC Route:
CCB Mixed Terrain Short
Start Location:
Canyon Club Brewery
Pre-registration

Fun group of ~8-10 people every week.

Mixed Terrain loop from Canyon Club Brewery (CCB) via roads and trails

CCB > South Pinehurst > East Ridge (Redwood) > Skyline > The View (Sibley) > Volcano Loop > Wild Dirt (Wilder) > Lost Valley > Mira Shortcut > Moraga Way > CCB

Leader: Julien Li
   phone
Leader: Anne Gulley
   phone
Start Location:
Emeryville - Opposite IKEA
Pre-registration

We won't call it a hot lap unless you want to time yourself. Short and sweaty ride to ward off winter apathy.

Route Link

Leader: Mark Nienberg
   mobile    text
Pre-registration
UPDATE:

Ride is on for Friday. Thursday was rained out.

See the listing for Thu Dec 7. If that ride was rained out, we will try again today. Contact the ride leader if you aren't sure.
Leader: Liz Kroboth
   mobile    text
Leader: Maggie Wang
   mobile    text
GPC Route:
ASSR - LT - Lamorinda CCW
Start Location:
Orinda BART NW corner of parking lot
Pre-registration

Ride with LT pace! Meet at 9:00 for socializing and introductions. After that, we split into five separate pace groups. See more information about this ride on our website.

This is a NO DROP ride with a Philz cafe stop at downtown Lafayette.

Leader: David Madson
   mobile    text
Leader: Brian Crowley
   phone
GPC Route:
ASSR - T - Classic Adagio
Start Location:
Orinda BART NW corner of parking lot
Pre-registration

Ride with T pace! Meet at 9:00 for socializing and introductions. After that, we split into five separate pace groups. See more information about this ride on our website.

This is a NO DROP ride with a Peets lunch stop at downtown Danville.

Leader: Ilan Eyman
   mobile    text
GPC Route:
ASSR - TM (short) - Classic Andante
Start Location:
Orinda BART NW corner of parking lot
Pre-registration

Ride with TM pace! Meet at 9:00 for socializing and introductions. After that, we split into five separate pace groups. See more information about this ride on our website.

Leader: Ted Ognibene
   mobile    text
Start Location:
Orinda BART NW corner of parking lot
Pre-registration

Ride with M / TM pace! Meet at 9:00 for socializing and introductions. After that, we split into five separate pace groups. See more information about this ride on our website.

Modified route so that we can make it to the GPC party: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/45127300

There would be no lunch stop as the goal would be to finish the ride before 2 pm.

Leader: Jessica Jensen
   mobile    text
Leader: Abigail Cotton
   mobile    text
Leader: Mary Ann Jawili
   mobile    text
UPDATE:

NOTE: The venue has changed since our GPC-Talk announcement on November 16. We’ll now be at the Albany Community Center.

Come one, come all to the annual club holiday party! This year we're switching things up a bit - while the party will be held on the second Saturday in December, we won't be having the party in conjunction with the ride. Instead, you can ride ASSR in the morning, go home, get dolled up, and then come join us at the Albany Community Center and have a jolly good time for the evening with your fellow festive Grizzlies!

The party will be catered with heavy appetizers and beverages, but please bring your favorite holiday dish to share as well! The venue has a kitchen and patio for us to use (e.g. refrigeration, bike parking, outdoor socializing) if needed during our party.

Please RSVP so that we can plan accordingly: https://bit.ly/2023-gpc-holiday-rsvp

Date, time: Saturday, December 9th, 4 to 7PM

Location: Albany Community Center, 1249 Marin Ave, Albany, CA 94706

Leader: David Cone
   phone
Leader: Stephanie Clarke
   mobile    text
Start Location:
North Berkeley BART
Pre-registration

(Re-scheduled due to damp weather on Dec. 2)
How spicy do you like it? With two leaders, this local ride is designed to support climbers at different levels of fitness, ambition and/or oxygen debt. The humane version, at a humane pace, does almost 3800 cumulative feet of climbing in 38 miles, including Arlington, back side of Hillcrest, Santa Rita, Mama Bear, Happy Valley, Toyonal. The extra-picante version adds in Amend and Lomas Cantadas, for 4300' in just 36 miles. We'll regroup in Dalewood Park to sort out who wants to climb all the way up to the steam trains and who wants to do Toyonal-Wildcat. Rain cancels; if the weather is iffy, check here for updates or text the leaders.

Leader: Jaz Zaitlin
   mobile    text
GPC Route:
Cheese Factory from Miller Creek
Start Location:
San Rafael - Marinwood Community Center
Pre-registration

We will ride from Miller Creek Community Center out through Novato, to Stafford Lake for a regroup, and then stop for lunch at Marin French Cheese Co., formerly known as the Cheese Factory. Then we'll head back through Nicasio and Lucas Valley Road. Ride is 35 miles with just under 2000 ft of climbing. You may extend the ride by adding an out-and-back to Point Reyes Station which will add 12 more miles. Current forecast is partly sunny but cool so dress accordingly. Bring or buy lunch at the Marin French Cheese company.

Restrooms and on-street parking at Marinwood Community Center.

Please pre-register.

Leader: Fletcher Stump Smith
   mobile    text
Start Location:
El Cerrito Plaza BART
Pre-registration

Bring big tires and bright lights and be prepared to climb. Most of the climbing will be on trails and in the dark, with a few section that are quite steep so come prepared. See last weeks ride for an example of what to expect, but the route might change a bit depending on trail conditions, time, and group size. Expect 2.5k - 3k feet of elevation gain. If you are interested in the ride but don't have a suitable light I have an extra one I can lend out, just email me ahead of time and plan on showing up a little early so we can set it up.

Leader: Mark Nienberg
   mobile    text
GPC Route:
Drake's Beach from Marinwood
Start Location:
San Rafael - Marinwood Community Center
Pre-registration

We'll ride through Nicasio and Olema on our way to Drakes beach in Point Reyes National Seashore. Pick up lunch at the Inverness Park Market on the way and take it with us to the beach. Order ahead if you like. We return through Pt. Reyes Station.

Shorten the ride by 20 miles by starting in Nicasio. We should roll through there at about 10:15. Pre-registration is appreciated.

There is often a faster (more like M pace) group on this ride, but we all come back together at frequent regroups and lunch. Faster riders should feel free to push on after lunch. Just tell the leader first. We will start when everyone who arrives by the meeting time is ready. If you arrive after the meeting time, you may have to chase. You can probably catch us in Nicasio or Inverness Park.

Leader: Anne Schonfield
   mobile    text
Leader: Mark Bauer
   phone
Start Location:
North Berkeley BART
Pre-registration

Please join us for a weekly Thursday evening ride. This is a short ride but with a steep climb! We’ll head up Virginia St and Spruce to Spruce/Grizzly Peak for our first regroup, then head out along Wildcat Canyon to South Park Rd. From there, we’ll climb South Park, descend, and climb it again as many times as the mood strikes us (usually two or three times is enough, but individual riders can shorten or lengthen the ride as desired). South Park is closed to cars starting November 1st, which makes it perfect for winter riding. If we complete two round trip ascents up South Park then back to N Berkeley Bart, expect about 2,300 feet of elevation gain. This is a great way to stay in shape over the winter!

NOTE: This is a night ride. Come with bright front and rear lights (and make sure they work). 20% chance or greater of rain cancels the ride. Please contact ride leaders with any questions.
https://ridewithgps.com/routes/41240468

Leader: Mike Wood
   mobile    text
Leader: Drew U
   mobile    text
GPC Route:
CCB Mixed Terrain Short
Start Location:
Canyon Club Brewery
Pre-registration

Fun group of ~8-10 people every week.

Mixed Terrain loop from Canyon Club Brewery (CCB) via roads and trails

CCB > South Pinehurst > East Ridge (Redwood) > Skyline > The View (Sibley) > Volcano Loop > Wild Dirt (Wilder) > Lost Valley > Mira Shortcut > Moraga Way > CCB

Leader: Anne Gulley
   phone
Leader: David Gould
   mobile    text
Leader: Rick Patterson
   mobile    text
Start Location:
Emeryville - Opposite IKEA
Pre-registration

We won't call it a hot lap unless you want to time yourself. Short and sweaty ride to ward off winter apathy.

Route Link

Leader: Terri Bimes
   phone
Leader: Abigail Cotton
   mobile    text
Leader: Stephen Cotton
   mobile    text
Leader: Anne Schonfield
   mobile    text
Mandatory pre-registration

Come join Team Epic Climb as we climb Pine Mountain and Geysers in Sonoma County on Saturday. Sonoma County is beautiful. If the climbs don't take your breath away, the scenery will. We'd love for you to join us.

Things to bring: 1. Sense of Adventure 2. Food and water 3. Lots of clothing layers. This is our first time doing this route. We know there are bathrooms at the start and the end of the ride. But we are unsure what the bathroom situation is mid-ride. Also make sure to bring your lunch and two bottles of water.

This ride will have a TM, T, and a TM/M option:

TM Pace: Terri and Anne Schonfield will be leading this pace group.

T Pace: Abby Cotton will be riding at a T pace and would love to have T-paced riders join her. This T group will start and regroup with TM, but will expect to ascend at a slower T pace. Please note we expect this to be a beautiful but challenging ride, so you should be a confident climber, ideally having tackled a summit like Mt Diablo or Mt Tam, or have the strong desire to do so.

TM/M Pace: Steve Cotton will be leading the super fast riders.

30% chance of rain cancels. Rain date is Dec. 23rd.

Pine Mountain and Geysers: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/45114484

53.4 miles // 5,948 feet of climbing

Start Place: Cloverdale City Park: 450 W 2nd St, Cloverdale, CA 95425 google map link

Meet: 9:00 a.m.

Roll: 9:15 a.m.

**Registration is mandatory -- so that we know you are coming. Plus, if it looks like rain on Saturday, we can more easily contact you.

More Information about Pine Mountain and the Geysers Climbs (Taken from various websites):

Pine Mountain

Ride 4.9 miles gaining 2,020’ at 7.4% average grade.

This is a very scenic and challenging climb in northern Sonoma County beginning at the eastern edge of Cloverdale. Though it’s beautiful year round, we recommend it most highly in the springtime. The most difficult section of the climb comes at the beginning (first mile at 11% and the first 2½ miles are 9.1%). The Pine Mountain climb is ranked #7 in Sonoma County.

Geysers Road South

This one is ALL climb - 8.7% gaining 1,840' with 0 descent! 61% (2.5 miles) of the climb is at 5-10% grade, and 31% (1.2 miles) is at 10-15%. The gradient profile does not register above 15%, but, according to my Garmin (unless I was hallucinating . . . a possibility ) the grade does briefly hit 16%. The steepest quarter-mile is 12.4% and steepest continuous mile 9.6%.

Leader: Jim O'Melia
   mobile    text
Leader: Geoffrey Shannon
   mobile    text
GPC Route:
Lunch at Blackhawk Plaza
Start Location:
Pleasant Hill BART
Pre-registration

https://ridewithgps.com/routes/29607773

A pleasant flat ride from Pleasant Hill BART to Blackhawk Plaza for lunch at Draeger's Market. Then, ride back taking Blackhawk Road.

Pace 12-13 mph.

Leader: Adele Madelo
   phone
Start Location:
Orinda BART NW corner of parking lot
Pre-registration
UPDATE:

Alas, after consulting with three different weather services, I am canceling today's ride. If we're out there, it will be cold and miserable.

Let's usher in those additional seconds of daylight with this ride a few days before the actual solstice. (This year Winter Solstice is Dec 21.) Note that this ride starts an hour early, so we can return to Orinda BART before it turns dark. See route here, which, like its name suggests, takes us down to San Ramon and Dublin and back up to Orinda. There will be several regroups and it'll be friendly, but please note that this is not a no-drop ride. A couple bailouts include Dublin/Pleasanton BART near mile 37.5 and Lafayette BART at mile 58.4.

Pre-registration
UPDATE:

Canceled due to rain.

Miles and smiles, hills and thrills, lunches and lattes. This listing will be updated when the route and leader have been determined, usually by Monday evening. Meet at 10:00 am (usually) for this ride. Rain cancels. You can also join our web forum and check the forum archives for the current information or contact Mark Sapiro at (415) 388-8910.

Rain Date: Fri Dec 22
Leader: Mark Nienberg
   mobile    text
GPC Route:
Rockville - Winters loop CW
Start Location:
Rockville Bike shop
Pre-registration

If the unsettled weather continues into Thursday, this ride might be postponed one day until the rain date Friday. Check back here to be sure.

We'll celebrate the Winter Solstice by riding to Winters. We'll also test the theory that riding this loop clockwise might be better, since most of the climbing will be before lunch, and perhaps a little easier.

Please park in the back of the lot at Rockville Bikes, not in front of the businesses. There is often a faster (more like M pace) group on this ride, but we all come back together at frequent regroups and lunch. Faster riders should feel free to push on after lunch. Just tell the leader first.

Leader: Anne Schonfield
   mobile    text
Leader: Mark Bauer
   phone
Start Location:
North Berkeley BART
Pre-registration
UPDATE:

We're on for tonight Dec. 21. Please join us for a solstice ride, shortest day of the year!

Please join us for a weekly Thursday evening ride. This is a short ride but with a steep climb! We’ll head up Virginia St and Spruce to Spruce/Grizzly Peak for our first regroup, then head out along Wildcat Canyon to South Park Rd. From there, we’ll climb South Park, descend, and climb it again as many times as the mood strikes us (usually two or three times is enough, but individual riders can shorten or lengthen the ride as desired). South Park is closed to cars starting November 1st, which makes it perfect for winter riding. If we complete two round trip ascents up South Park then back to N Berkeley Bart, expect about 2,300 feet of elevation gain. This is a great way to stay in shape over the winter!

NOTE: This is a night ride. Come with bright front and rear lights (and make sure they work). 20% chance or greater of rain cancels the ride. Please contact ride leaders with any questions.
https://ridewithgps.com/routes/41240468

Leader: Mike Wood
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Leader: Drew U
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GPC Route:
CCB Mixed Terrain Short
Start Location:
Canyon Club Brewery
Pre-registration

Fun group of ~8-10 people every week.

Mixed Terrain loop from Canyon Club Brewery (CCB) via roads and trails

CCB > South Pinehurst > East Ridge (Redwood) > Skyline > The View (Sibley) > Volcano Loop > Wild Dirt (Wilder) > Lost Valley > Mira Shortcut > Moraga Way > CCB

Leader: Anne Gulley
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Leader: David Gould
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Leader: Rick Patterson
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Start Location:
Emeryville - Opposite IKEA
Pre-registration

We won't call it a hot lap unless you want to time yourself. Short and sweaty ride to ward off winter apathy.

Route Link

Leader: Mark Nienberg
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See the listing for Thu Dec 21. If that ride was rained out, we will try again today. Contact the ride leader if you aren't sure.
Leader: Fletcher Stump Smith
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Leader: Mary Ann Jawili
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Start Location:
El Cerrito Plaza BART
Pre-registration

Ride with GPS Route

It's been raining earlier this week but let's get out and ride some fire roads. The route was chosen to minimize mud but I can't rule out the possibility. Depending on conditions some adjustments to the route may be made during the ride. Mud aside, I don't expect any of the dirt sections to be too difficult for a gravel bike but there might be a few brief steep sections. Days are getting shorter so we'll be keeping the stops relatively short but there will be time for lunch at Mile 41 at Good Earth foods.

Bring layers in case it gets cold and windy. We aim to be back before well before dark it's good to have lights just in case. At least 38mm wide tires recommended.

Leader: Terri Bimes
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Leader: Stephen Cotton
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Leader: Abigail Cotton
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Pre-registration
UPDATE:

Please bring lights. Also, there is an option to cut Jamison Creek climb and just meet the group in Boulder Creek for lunch. Bypassing Jamison cuts 1800 feet / 7-8 miles and some of the hardest climbing of the ride

Are you ready for some more epic climbing? This weekend we take on three epic climbs in the South Bay. We hope you can join! Finish off the year with an epic bike ride!

  1. Hwy 9 (Low-Key Hillclimbs) Saratoga -- 10.94 km (6.8 miles), 636 m elevation (2087 feet), Avg. grade is 5.8% with the steepest quarter at 8.1%
  2. Jamison Creek: 4.65 km (2.88 miles), 454 m elevation gain (1489 feet) Avg. grade is 9.8% with the steepest quarter at 15.1%
  3. Hwy 9 (Bear Creek to 35--Skyline) -- 21.26 km (13.2 miles), 633 m elevation (2076 feet), Avg. grade 3.0% Steepest quarter 7.3%

Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/45192120 63.4 miles / 7,865 feet of climbing

Start Place: Foothill Park next to Foothill Elementary School in Saratoga -- google map link *Not sure if there are bathrooms at start. Best to take care of business before we roll.

Lunch will be in Boulder Creek. There are a few markets where you can order a sandwich. This ride is not as remote as the Geysers. There will be places to get water along the way. Still a good idea to bring two bottles of water and some food. Also, bring lots of layers of clothing.

*30% chance of rain cancels.

Leader: Wendell Doman
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Leader: Mark A. Seedall
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Leader: Rick Patterson
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Leader: Geoffrey Fowler
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GPC Route:
Heather Farm to Diablo Junction
Start Location:
Walnut Creek - Heather Farm
Pre-registration

Time: 9am to 10am

Come join fellow Grizzlies who will help you learn how to maintain your bike and keep it in top running condition. We'll check out the condition of your bikes (i.e., tires, chain, brakes, wheels, cables, etc.), give you some advice and show you the tools you'd need.

We'll go for a ride to Diablo Junction via Northgate Rd. at 10:15am.

What to bring to the clinic: Please bring your bike and any questions regarding bike maintenance. We will do our best to take a look at everyone’s bike and give maintenance tips.

Bring a friend. We'll have coffee and bagels!

Leader: Fletcher Stump Smith
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Start Location:
Rockridge BART
Pre-registration

There has been a pause in the rain so let's take advantage of it and ride Chabot. See the Tentative Route, some adjustments to the route be made depending on trail conditions. 38mm or more tires are recommend and you should be comfortable riding on sometimes loose, bumpy, or steep terrain. There will be a stop at redwood canyon golf course for food, water and bathrooms, but selection is limited so bringing food is recommended. Note: RWGPS route shows 4267ft of elevation gain but strava shows 5107ft for the same route.

UPDATE:

Ride is canceled due to rain.

Miles and smiles, hills and thrills, lunches and lattes. This listing will be updated when the route and leader have been determined, usually by Monday evening. Meet at 10:00 am (usually) for this ride. Rain cancels. You can also join our web forum and check the forum archives for the current information or contact Mark Sapiro at (415) 388-8910.

Leader: Terri Bimes
   phone
Mandatory pre-registration

Do you have any gas left in the tank for one more epic climb ride this year? It looks like there may be a break in the rain on Thursday. If the weather forecast is correct, I'd love to have some company for this epic ride. The route is 37.8 miles and 5,943 feet of climbing. We will tackle three climbs:

1. Alba Climb: Segment in Ben Lomond. 6.12km (3.8 miles), 611m elevation gain (2004 feet) Average grade is 10.0% with the steepest quarter mile at 15.4%

2. Bonny Doon + Pine Flat to Empire: Segment in Santa Cruz. 9.94km (6.17 miles), 573m (1879 feet) elevation gain. Average grade is 5.8% with the steepest quarter mile at 10.0%.

3. Felton Empire: Segment in Felton. 5.87km (3.6 miles), 435m (1427 feet) elevation gain. Average grade is 7.4% with the steepest quarter mile at 12.3%.

https://ridewithgps.com/routes/45222342

Meeting Place: Felton Covered Bridge County Park. The park website says they have bathrooms but if not, there is a Shell station right next to the park. Google Map Link.

What to bring: Food, warm clothing, two bottles of water, helmet.

Given the late posting of this ride, I am going to make registration mandatory. Also, 30% chance of rain cancels.

Hope you can join me!

Leader: Mark Nienberg
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Start Location:
Berkeley - Spruce & Grizzly Peak Blvd - north side
Pre-registration
UPDATE:

The forecast as of Wednesday eve is for a dry day. If it looks dubious in the morning, check back here for a status update, otherwise assume we are on!

It looks like there might be a dry day between storms, but the chance of rain has been increasing, so check back here for possible cancellation.

We'll ride a loop out to Martinez via Wildcat, SPDR, Castro Ranch, the Bay Trail, and Carquinez Scenic. After lunch we return via Alhambra, Bear Creek, and Wildcat. Feel free to join at the bottom of Wildcat or whatever works for you. Let me know if you want us to look for you.

See the route on RideWithGPS.

There is often a faster (more like M pace) group on this ride, but we all come back together at frequent regroups and lunch. Faster riders should feel free to push on after lunch. Just tell the leader first.

Leader: Anne Schonfield
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Leader: Abigail Cotton
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Start Location:
North Berkeley BART
Pre-registration

[Note: Abby has kindly agreed to lead the ride on Dec. 28, since Anne and Mark are traveling).

Please join us for a weekly Thursday evening ride. This is a short ride but with a steep climb! We’ll head up Virginia St and Spruce to Spruce/Grizzly Peak for our first regroup, then head out along Wildcat Canyon to South Park Rd. From there, we’ll climb South Park, descend, and climb it again as many times as the mood strikes us (usually two or three times is enough, but individual riders can shorten or lengthen the ride as desired). South Park is closed to cars starting November 1st, which makes it perfect for winter riding. If we complete two round trip ascents up South Park then back to N Berkeley Bart, expect about 2,300 feet of elevation gain. This is a great way to stay in shape over the winter!

NOTE: This is a night ride. Come with bright front and rear lights (and make sure they work). 20% chance or greater of rain cancels the ride. Please contact ride leaders with any questions.
https://ridewithgps.com/routes/41240468

Leader: Mike Wood
   mobile    text
Leader: Drew U
   mobile    text
GPC Route:
CCB Mixed Terrain Short
Start Location:
Canyon Club Brewery
Pre-registration

Fun group of ~8-10 people every week.

Mixed Terrain loop from Canyon Club Brewery (CCB) via roads and trails

CCB > South Pinehurst > East Ridge (Redwood) > Skyline > The View (Sibley) > Volcano Loop > Wild Dirt (Wilder) > Lost Valley > Mira Shortcut > Moraga Way > CCB

Leader: Anne Gulley
   phone
Leader: David Gould
   mobile    text
Leader: Rick Patterson
   mobile    text
Start Location:
Emeryville - Opposite IKEA
Pre-registration

We won't call it a hot lap unless you want to time yourself. Short and sweaty ride to ward off winter apathy.

Route Link

Leader: Anne Gulley
   phone
Start Location:
North Berkeley BART
Pre-registration
UPDATE:

With this much rain on Fri/Sat Briones will be too muddy to cut through on Sunday. Route is updated to avoid the trails.

Bull Valley Roadhouse Sunday brunch finale to 2023! The plan is to ride Amtrak back to Berkeley after a bite in Port Costa. This was a super ride last year but there are some "unknowns." The route is updated this year, only a short 2.5 miles unpaved trail through Briones Regional park (91% road ride) to avoid mud. Come out for fun and food!

Amtrak is $13 Martinez to Berkeley and departs at 1:55 pm.

Ride with GPS Route

Leader: Daniel Stoops
   mobile    text
Start Location:
Fruitvale BART
Pre-registration

New Year's Revolutions (NYR) rides are designed for people who are newer to cycling or who have been off their bikes for a bit. These rides are generally shorter and at an easier pace (LT = 9-10 MPH average on hilly rides / 11-12 MPH on flat rides). These rides are also no-drop, so you don't have to worry about being left behind!

This Warmup ride tours very scenic and very flat Alameda - cross a drawbridge, pass Victorian houses, ride through an old Naval base, next to an aircraft carrier to spectacular views of downtown SF, along the waterfront, make a quick stop for sustenance at Highwire Coffee Roasters, and return to Fruitvale BART.

RideWithGPS Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/41633969

December 2023 Ride Statistics
WeekdayWeekendTotal
25 17 42