Millarville/Sheep River Falls/Bluerock, int/adv, 111 km, Lyle O

         ROAD RIDE - INTERMEDIATE (DISTANCE AND ELEVATION)

         Coordinators: Lyle Opseth

Difficulty:

Distance: 111 Km (advanced)

Pace: 22-25 kph (intermediate)

Elevation Gain: 1156 m (advanced; two climbs 16% grade)

Ride format: No sweep, limited stops

Parking and Meeting Place: Millarville Hockey Rink parking lot

E-Bikes: yes

Route description:

(Anonymous Club Member): When is the club going to schedule a ride on the classic Sheep River valley road, or highway 546? It got cancelled in May as the road was closed. It is a quieter, scenic road I love to cycle and I'm getting impatient. Will the snow fly before I get to ride it?

Wait no longer!!!

Celebrate Canada Day with a metric century ride from Millarville to Turner Valley and up the Sheep River Valley on highway 546 to the end, returning the same way. On the way back, we stop at the Sheep River Falls viewpoint for a lunch break (see map; approximately 54.8 km). This is an extended bike ride because, with the long days, the fireworks won't be until late evening. So let's enjoy one of the most scenic cycling routes in Alberta as we venture up and down the Sheep River valley.

As this is an out-and-back ride. On the way out we will use 192 St to Black Diamond and the Friendship Pathway from BD to Turner Valley. On the return we will use highway 22 from TV to Millarville. 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.

Social elements:

• Longer stop at Sheep Falls day use area on the return.
• Tailgate party at Millarville following our ride. We hope to join with the 155/160 km group at the end for the tailgate party.

Safety:

• No cell service in Blue Rock and Sheep River PPs.
• Bring your own tools, spare tubes, etc.
• Consider bringing bear spray.
• We need to cross cattle guards several times.
• Water/food can be obtained in Turner Valley.