On May 31, cyclists participating in the Flying Wheels Fundraiser will mount their bikes and ride the streets of the Snoqualmie Valley, taking in views of the Snoqualmie River, the surrounding mountains and local farmland. Whether participants will take the 50, 70 or 100 mile route, it is a chance for individuals to get to know the area intimately, regardless of training level.

Being one of the staple events hosted by the Cascade Bicycle Club, this year it is anticipated that 1,200 people will register for the event. Cyclists have until May 29 to sign up. According to Elizabeth Lunderman, events director at Cascade Bicycle Club, a lot of participants in the event take it as the opportunity to prepare for the 208-mile ride from Seattle to Portland in July.

“The best way to really get to know a place, I believe, is through a bike,” Lunderman said.

No public road will be closed for the event. But before the ride begins, the team at Cascade Bicycle Club will put up route markers and signage along the three paths, ensuring cyclists will follow the correct route as well as following the rules of the road.

The bike ride will start and finish at Marymoor Park in Redmond, with a finish line celebration taking place at Jerry Baker Memorial Velodrome. Every 20 to 25 miles, volunteer-managed rest stops will be set up, fully stocked with food, refreshments, and portable toilets to give cyclists the opportunity to rest and reset before they get back on the road.

The Maltby Elementary rest stop is only on the 100 mile route, whereas the rest stops at Carnation Tree Farm and Fall City Elementary will serve all three routes.

“We would not be able to put these programs on if it wasn’t for the support of the community, and would not be able to highlight what we think is one of the most beautiful parts of Washington,” Lunderman said.

More information on the event can be found at cascade.org.