miles per day on Sierra Cascade

[StuartB]

Hi there,

I'm interested to know what people think is reasonable to cover in a day, consistently. I am preparing to complete legs 3, 2 and 1 of the Sierra Cascade route through August, 25 days allowed for. By my calculation that is about 55 mi per day, not allowing for and rest, sight seeing, or break down days etc. It seems ridiculous even writing this.

Perhaps there are some sections, I will need to get public transport. Just keen to read any feedback from anyone who has completed these sections and could offer up any advice.

Thanks in advance,
Stuart

[zzzz]

Stuart:

The exact question you asked is more specific about you than I could answer. I averaged 85 a day on my trip starting in Sumas to where I pulled off in LA and I'm not superman, so 55 a day certainly can be done. I think the best I can suggest is to take what you would expect to average on a less challenging route and knock 15-20% off of that. So if you are capable of averaging 70 miles a day on a less hilly route AND you don't find big climbs really daunting (either physically or psychologically) then you'll be fine planning for 55 a day.

This is a terrific route, you will have a great time,

Pete

[John Nettles]

I would suggest you look at the journals over on CrazyGuyonaBike.com for the SC route.  By reading several, you will get a feel for the route, see what their mileage was (sometimes, the overnight accommodations dictate where you will stop whether you want to stop or not), etc.

I would say that the generally overall riding average (not including rest days since some take none and others take 1 every other day), is about 55-60.  Most experienced cyclists have short miles the first few days until the body adjusts to the new routine.  Remember, some days you will do 40, others 75.

Also, since you imply you have a deadline, be sure to have a day or two as "buffer days" so you do not miss the plane, bus, etc. in case you are a little behind schedule.

Have a great tour!

[Inge]

Don't forget to take into account the amount of climbing you do a day into your mileage. I am cycling the Pacific coast this summer and am cycling between 15 and 90 km a day - not including rest and/or sightseeing days. It simply depends on what I want to see and where my campground is.

[StuartB]

Thanks everyone for your comments.