Bicyclists will 'fall' for new WaCanId ride

BONNERS FERRY — Just as autumn colors are coming into their peak, bicyclists will take to the quiet byways of the renowned International Selkirk Loop for an inaugural five-day bike tour dubbed the WaCanId Ride.

The ride, slated for Oct. 1-5, traverses the states of Washington and Idaho, and the Canadian province of British Columbia, offering bicyclists a scenic ride along lakes and rivers amid the towering Selkirk Mountain range, dotted with charming towns along the way. It’s a benefit ride, with monies raised going to participating Rotary clubs of District 5080 in communities along the route.

The WaCanId ride covers 340 miles and bicyclists may either partake in free camping, or choose lodging. Cyclists’ gear will be transported by local Rotary groups during the ride.

Because it follows river and lake valleys, the grades are gentle to moderate with only a couple steeper climbs. The early October ride dates are generally dry with high temperatures typically in the 60s.

One rider looking forward to the WaCanId is Sandpoint resident Mel Dick, who logged over 10,000 miles last year on a coast-to-coast benefit ride of his own.

“I’ve ridden all over the U.S. and this is a ride I am truly looking forward to doing,” said Dick. “The ride has the potential to be one of the great all-time rides in terms of scenery and charming communities — all with an international flair.”

Riders may participate as individuals or in teams, and proceed around the Loop at their own pace. They will be attended to throughout the event by volunteers from Rotary groups along the route.

Riders may choose to begin at any one of seven starting points: Newport, Washington; Sandpoint or Bonners Ferry in Idaho; or Creston, Nelson, Fruitvale or Castlegar in British Columbia.

Information: online, www.WaCanId.org; or by phone,  1 (866) 732-1194