Sheep River Falls/Bluerock, intermediate, 77K, Lyle O

         ROAD RIDE - INTERMEDIATE (DISTANCE AND ELEVATION)

Distance: 77 Km

Pace: 22-25 kph

Elevation Gain: 851 m

Ride format: No sweep, limited stops

Parking and Meeting Place: We start at the library/community centre in Turner Valley

Route description:

A hilly and scenic ride in the beautiful Sheep River Valley. We ride up the Sheep River Road (Hwy 546) to the end where we loop through the day use area and parking at the end of the road and return. On the way back, we stop at the Sheep River Falls viewpoint (see map; approximately 41.5 km) for a lunch break.

As this is an out-and-back ride with an obvious route, there will be no sweep.  Be prepared to be self-sufficient, with enough food and water, and equipped and able to change your own flat tire if needed. This is bear country and consider carrying bear spray.

The main road (Sunset Blvd/546) through Turner Valley is closed for construction this summer. We will detour via Edgar Ave and Windsor Ave to exit and return through Turner Valley. This is not shown on the map.

Social elements:

• Longer stop to snack and soak up the atmosphere at Sheep Falls on the return.
• Tailgate party at Turner Valley following our ride.

Safety:

• Ensure your emergency contact info is up to date. 
• Some parts of the route do not have cell service.
• Bring your own tools, spare tubes, etc.
• Consider bringing bear spray.
• We need to cross cattle guards several times.