Tour de Poway
October 6, 2002
This is a 50 mile ride that is advertised as being a hilly ride from the beginning with an 8 percent grade for about 3 miles leaving Poway on the way to Ramona. Once the first climb is completed there is a nice descent into Ramona with the route swinging to the east and circling back to Ramona. After riding down Main Street in Ramona the route goes north on a nice country road through range land followed by winding hilly roads. The pictures were taken after the ride so no bicycles appear in the pictures.
| Looking back toward the Poway area from about one third of the way up the grade leading to Ramona. |
After a series of short hill climbs there an quick descent on a very windy road under a canopy of oak trees. There are a number of scenic views in this area; but it was difficult to get pictures, since there were few turnouts where one could park a vehicle to take pictures. It would be necessary to ride the course again at a leisurely pace to capture some of the better scenes.
| Looking back up one of the descents through a grove of oaks trees providing a canopy cover of the road.. |
Finally there is a very steep descent down to where the San Luis Rey River crosses under Interstate 15 just south of Escondido. The grade is posted at 9% as shown in the photo below, and the road is cut into the side of the hill providing a very steep drop off on the left side while descending.
| The descent toward the San Luis Rey River. As noted in the sign the grade is 9%, but very windy so speed is limited. |
Food at the two rest stops consisted of sliced oranges, banana halves and water. Those accustomed to more food while riding might wish to pack some food of their selection. The remainder of the ride is along parkways featuring ample room for both bicyclists and vehicles. This ride uses a group start, so be there at the appointed time. At separate times there are two shorter routes available. For more information check their web page at http://www.bikelink.com/. Tee shirts may be purchased to commemorate your ride.