http://www.cyclocamping.com/ Simply the toughest, most reliable and most adapted bicycle touring gear and camping equipment. 50+ Top Quality Brands. Visit our friendly Forum, enjoy our free Articles, Information, Reviews, Tips, Advice written by some of the most experienced bicycle travelers http://www.cyclocamping.com/proddetail.asp?prod=1621-83SL http://www.cyclocamping.com/proddetail.asp?prod=1621-83SL http://www.cyclocamping.com/prodimages/small/1621-83SL-1.jpg Like the world famous SIGG bottles, these reusable durable aluminum water bottles are better than plastic bottles because they resist absorbing odors and taste as well as other bacteria build up. Made of lightweight aluminum, this promotional 26 oz. water bottle features a plastic cap with pull-out drinking spout. Contour grip. Food grade internal liner. Size: 10 in. h x 2.75 in diameter http://www.cyclocamping.com/proddetail.asp?prod=IRDM805SS http://www.cyclocamping.com/proddetail.asp?prod=IRDM805SS http://www.cyclocamping.com/prodimages/small/IRDM805SS-1.jpg i-RIDE Standard: 1 watt amplified with 3 AAA batteries, universal mounting bracket, neoprene pouch to hold IPOD/MP3 Player. Safe, versatile, compatible, one-size-fits-all, and secure. Versatile: mounts on handlebars and bike frames. It can even be mounted upside down. Use the motivational power of music to train better for those long distance rides or just kick back and make those recreational rides more enjoyable. SAFE: no earbuds required. tune in to your favorite music without tuning out the world around you...but please control your volume and always wear a helmet. Compatible: works with any IPOD™, MP3 player, Satellite radio, good ol' portable AM/FM, or any audio device with a standard headphone jack One size fits all: universal mounting bracket fits 21.8mm – 32mm handlebars, frames and also fits most jogging strollers and even beach chairs! Secure: instantly attaches and detaches to avoid theft. allows you to take your tunes with you once you reach your destination. Mounting Bracket Width: approximately 2" Diameter: accomodates 21.8 mm through 32mm (children through adult) Mounting position: securely holds speaker at any angle (even upside down). Can be mounted in vertical position on handlebars as on some beach cruisers and BMX style bikes. Dimensions: 6" 2.75" (15.2cm x 7cm) http://www.cyclocamping.com/proddetail.asp?prod=GOTBC-1212 http://www.cyclocamping.com/proddetail.asp?prod=GOTBC-1212 http://www.cyclocamping.com/prodimages/small/GOTBC-1212-1.jpg     Map Features     Adventure Cycling Association developed the best cross-country, loop, coastal and inland cycling routes available, with turn-by-turn directions, detailed navigational instructions for the tricky sections, and elevation profiles in the high country. The maps are also waterproof and sized to fit in a handlebar-bag window or jersey pocket.   ADVENTURE CYCLE MAP INCLUDE:   Service symbols indicating the locations of campgrounds, hostels, motels, gas stations, groceries, restaurants, post offices, and bike shops Narratives with turn-by-turn instructions for traveling in either direction Distances given in miles and kilometers Contour lines providing a general idea of elevation gains and losses Elevation profiles in mountainous regions with major ascents and descents indicated Details about the natural history and cultural heritage along the route A weather chart providing average monthly rainfall and mean temperatures at various points along the route Large-scale detail maps of urban or congested areas Summaries of riding conditions to provide information on road surfaces, traffic volumes, and areas of caution Our Online Addenda, where updates are always available and current These routes are available to you in 300 to 400-mile map sections, so you can plan anything from a weekend trip to a multi-month adventure. Our routes feature the backroads of America where you can experience the communities and rural landscapes that make our country unique. We want you to see a rural America that can't be seen from the freeways. Our generous members and supporters are helping to create and maintain our legacy and gift to the nation -- the Adventure Cycling Route Network.     THE FINER DETAILS OF ADVENTURE CYCLING MAPS   Adventure Cycling Association maps are divided in a dozen 40-60 miles sections (1/2 a day to 1 day biking), this is an example of one of those section:     Bi-directional Narratives: Narratives have detailed turn-by-turn instructions for traveling in either direction. The number preceding each directive indicates the distance you've come since the beginning of the map panel at the matchline. (The number following in parentheses is the distance in kilometers.) Changes in road names and numbers are marked by stars both in the narrative and on the map panel.     Locator Box: The locator box gives an idea of your progress on the map section. For an overview of the route, the Index Map shows a larger scale version of the route's location.     Matchlines: Matchlines are solid pink lines on each end of the map panel intersecting the route. The narrative leads you from matchline to matchline. Once you "reach" the matchline, turn to the next map panel and begin following its narrative, again proceeding from the near matchline to the far matchline.     Service Symbols: Symbols correspond with the service information on the text side of the map, and tell bicyclists what sort of services they will encounter along the route. These include campgrounds, bike shops, grocery stores, libraries, restaurants, post offices, hostels, motels, bed and breakfasts, and hotels.     Elevation Profiles: Elevation profiles indicate major ascents and descents. On the Lewis & Clark Trail maps (as shown here), the profile is attached to each map panel. On other maps, in the mountainous regions of the country, the profile appears in one continuous panel on the text side of the map. (Not all map sections have elevation profiles.)     North Arrow: The north arrow is not necessarily up as it is on most maps, and it changes orientation from panel to panel. This allows as many miles of the route as possible to be depicted on each map panel.     End Mileages: The mileage to either end of the route section is shown at the border of each map panel.     Annual Events and Points of Interest: For your information, selected museums, points of interest, and events are included, where space allows, on the map panels. Museums have a brief description of their exhibits. Annual events have a brief description and the time of year they occur.         Great Parks Route   Jasper, AB, to Durango, CO - 7 map set (2,518.5 mi.)         GREAT PARKS NORTH Even in the height of summer, cyclists must be prepared for cold nights and occasional snow in the higher elevations. The Canadian parks, with their wide road shoulders, provide excellent cycling conditions, though motorized traffic during the tourist season is heavy. Towns outside the parks, such as Fernie, British Columbia, offer information and ample opportunities for the off-road cycling enthusiast. Fascinating side trips abound for natural and geological sightseeing, which include aerial trams, hiking onto glaciers, and whitewater rafting. So, allow extra time beyond bicycling for these activities. This route should be ridden from early summer to mid-fall. Going-to-the-Sun Highway in Glacier National Park is usually closed until early June (and has limited hours for cyclists). Note that snow can occur at any time during the summer in the Rocky Mountains. Due to changing local conditions, it is difficult to predict any major wind patterns.     The route begins in Jasper, Alberta, a busy tourist center in the heart of Jasper National Park, one of the five Canadian Parks the route traverses. You will be amazed by the scenery: glacial lakes, dramatic waterfalls, piercingly steep mountains covered with glaciers, and a tremendous variety of wildlife; you will stop frequent just to marvel at the beauty. Be sure to ride cautiously among the tourists in recreational vehicles. As you head south, over several passes through the parks, take the time to go to Lake Louise and Banff, which both offer a wide variety of tourist services and charm. After 230 miles of amazing vistas, you'll leave Kootenay National Park and descend steeply into the town of Radium Hot Springs. Stop for an enjoyable soak in the soothing hot mineral pools. From Radium Hot Springs southward to Elko, the western side of the Rockies offers gentler cycling following the Columbia and Kootenay river systems. At Elko, the route turns east over the Continental Divide through a series of small mining communities. You'll see the prairies begin on the eastern slope and traverse the foothills through Waterton Lakes National Park, another mountain jewel of the Canadian Parks. The border crossing into the United States at Chief Mountain is only open from mid-May through mid-September, and then you're in Glacier National Park in Montana, crossing the Divide back to the western side on the spectacular Going-to-the-Sun Highway. You'll find no major climbs or descents after leaving the park, and the route mainly follows river valleys bracketed by mountain ranges all the way into Missoula.   Terrain The northern portion of the route is a series of climbs/descents over passes into various river valleys. In the south, you'll stay in the valleys and experience a more rolling terrain. The route crosses the Continental Divide three times.   Logistics To begin this route, Jasper can be reached by rail service from Edmonton, Alberta. Along its entire length, small towns at regular intervals provide ample services, but plan ahead due to crowded tourist conditions, especially in the Canadian Park System and in Glacier National Park. Reservations at both hostels and campgrounds are recommended. For off-road bicycling and primitive camping, a water purifier is necessary.   GREAT PARKS SOUTH The cyclist is rewarded by a continuous setting of dramatic mountain scenery, national forests, parks, monuments, and many climbs and descents over passes. Off-road mountain-biking opportunities abound at the various ski hills along the route, which offer singletrack riding on quiet forest trails, serviced by bustling tourist villages. This route can be ridden from early summer to mid-fall. Trail Ridge Road is closed between October and June. Note that snow can occur at any time during the summer in the Rocky Mountains. Due to changing local conditions, it is difficult to predict any major wind patterns. Altitude sickness can slow you down, so preparation for the high altitude is important. Arriving a few days before your trip begins is a good way to acclimate.   The route begins in northern Colorado in the ski town of Steamboat Springs. After a gut-busting climb out of Steamboat Springs to Rabbit Ears Pass, you'll find open grazing land and national forest lands heading into Kremmling. There is heavy summer tourist activity from Hot Sulpher Springs to Granby, the southern entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park. Traffic is heavy throughout the park, and the terrain is extreme. From Estes Park to Georgetown, this area is the playground for Denver, the surrounding communities on the Front Range and also much of the nation. Communities from Keystone to Breckenridge have become major year-round tourist destinations, so be prepared for traffic and recreational vehicles. South of Fairplay, the route becomes more rural and traverses the high, open land of South Park. After crossing Trout Creek Pass, the route drops into the Arkansas River Valley near Buena Vista. The western slope of the Colorado Rocky Mountains is old mining country, from Salida all the way into Durango. Around Dolores, the mountains give way to the dry, open Four Corners region, highlighted by Mesa Verde National Park. Durango is the southern terminus of the historic Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, the only remaining regularly scheduled narrow-gauge passenger train.   Terrain On this route, you will cross eleven mountain passes, and six of these will be over the Continental Divide. The highest point is at 12,183 feet in Rocky Mountain National Park. The route follows a few river valleys, but for the most part you will be either climbing or decending.   Logistics In Colorado, high-altitude services from campground water to grocery stores can shut down early in the autumn depending on weather. A water purifier is recommended. Due to high levels of tourist activity in the summer, reservations for accommodations and campgrounds are recommended.   PLEASE REMEMBER TO CHECK FOR UPDATED ADDENDA BEFORE STARTING A TRIP!       http://www.cyclocamping.com/proddetail.asp?prod=GOTBC-1201 http://www.cyclocamping.com/proddetail.asp?prod=GOTBC-1201 http://www.cyclocamping.com/prodimages/small/GOTBC-1201-1.jpg     Map Features     Adventure Cycling Association developed the best cross-country, loop, coastal and inland cycling routes available, with turn-by-turn directions, detailed navigational instructions for the tricky sections, and elevation profiles in the high country. The maps are also waterproof and sized to fit in a handlebar-bag window or jersey pocket.   ADVENTURE CYCLE MAP INCLUDE:   Service symbols indicating the locations of campgrounds, hostels, motels, gas stations, groceries, restaurants, post offices, and bike shops Narratives with turn-by-turn instructions for traveling in either direction Distances given in miles and kilometers Contour lines providing a general idea of elevation gains and losses Elevation profiles in mountainous regions with major ascents and descents indicated Details about the natural history and cultural heritage along the route A weather chart providing average monthly rainfall and mean temperatures at various points along the route Large-scale detail maps of urban or congested areas Summaries of riding conditions to provide information on road surfaces, traffic volumes, and areas of caution Our Online Addenda, where updates are always available and current These routes are available to you in 300 to 400-mile map sections, so you can plan anything from a weekend trip to a multi-month adventure. Our routes feature the backroads of America where you can experience the communities and rural landscapes that make our country unique. We want you to see a rural America that can't be seen from the freeways. Our generous members and supporters are helping to create and maintain our legacy and gift to the nation -- the Adventure Cycling Route Network.     THE FINER DETAILS OF ADVENTURE CYCLING MAPS   Adventure Cycling Association maps are divided in a dozen 40-60 miles sections (1/2 a day to 1 day biking), this is an example of one of those section:     Bi-directional Narratives: Narratives have detailed turn-by-turn instructions for traveling in either direction. The number preceding each directive indicates the distance you've come since the beginning of the map panel at the matchline. (The number following in parentheses is the distance in kilometers.) Changes in road names and numbers are marked by stars both in the narrative and on the map panel.     Locator Box: The locator box gives an idea of your progress on the map section. For an overview of the route, the Index Map shows a larger scale version of the route's location.     Matchlines: Matchlines are solid pink lines on each end of the map panel intersecting the route. The narrative leads you from matchline to matchline. Once you "reach" the matchline, turn to the next map panel and begin following its narrative, again proceeding from the near matchline to the far matchline.     Service Symbols: Symbols correspond with the service information on the text side of the map, and tell bicyclists what sort of services they will encounter along the route. These include campgrounds, bike shops, grocery stores, libraries, restaurants, post offices, hostels, motels, bed and breakfasts, and hotels.     Elevation Profiles: Elevation profiles indicate major ascents and descents. On the Lewis & Clark Trail maps (as shown here), the profile is attached to each map panel. On other maps, in the mountainous regions of the country, the profile appears in one continuous panel on the text side of the map. (Not all map sections have elevation profiles.)     North Arrow: The north arrow is not necessarily up as it is on most maps, and it changes orientation from panel to panel. This allows as many miles of the route as possible to be depicted on each map panel.     End Mileages: The mileage to either end of the route section is shown at the border of each map panel.     Annual Events and Points of Interest: For your information, selected museums, points of interest, and events are included, where space allows, on the map panels. Museums have a brief description of their exhibits. Annual events have a brief description and the time of year they occur.         Great Parks Route   Jasper, AB, to Durango, CO - 7 map set (2,518.5 mi.)         GREAT PARKS NORTH Even in the height of summer, cyclists must be prepared for cold nights and occasional snow in the higher elevations. The Canadian parks, with their wide road shoulders, provide excellent cycling conditions, though motorized traffic during the tourist season is heavy. Towns outside the parks, such as Fernie, British Columbia, offer information and ample opportunities for the off-road cycling enthusiast. Fascinating side trips abound for natural and geological sightseeing, which include aerial trams, hiking onto glaciers, and whitewater rafting. So, allow extra time beyond bicycling for these activities. This route should be ridden from early summer to mid-fall. Going-to-the-Sun Highway in Glacier National Park is usually closed until early June (and has limited hours for cyclists). Note that snow can occur at any time during the summer in the Rocky Mountains. Due to changing local conditions, it is difficult to predict any major wind patterns.     The route begins in Jasper, Alberta, a busy tourist center in the heart of Jasper National Park, one of the five Canadian Parks the route traverses. You will be amazed by the scenery: glacial lakes, dramatic waterfalls, piercingly steep mountains covered with glaciers, and a tremendous variety of wildlife; you will stop frequent just to marvel at the beauty. Be sure to ride cautiously among the tourists in recreational vehicles. As you head south, over several passes through the parks, take the time to go to Lake Louise and Banff, which both offer a wide variety of tourist services and charm. After 230 miles of amazing vistas, you'll leave Kootenay National Park and descend steeply into the town of Radium Hot Springs. Stop for an enjoyable soak in the soothing hot mineral pools. From Radium Hot Springs southward to Elko, the western side of the Rockies offers gentler cycling following the Columbia and Kootenay river systems. At Elko, the route turns east over the Continental Divide through a series of small mining communities. You'll see the prairies begin on the eastern slope and traverse the foothills through Waterton Lakes National Park, another mountain jewel of the Canadian Parks. The border crossing into the United States at Chief Mountain is only open from mid-May through mid-September, and then you're in Glacier National Park in Montana, crossing the Divide back to the western side on the spectacular Going-to-the-Sun Highway. You'll find no major climbs or descents after leaving the park, and the route mainly follows river valleys bracketed by mountain ranges all the way into Missoula.   Terrain The northern portion of the route is a series of climbs/descents over passes into various river valleys. In the south, you'll stay in the valleys and experience a more rolling terrain. The route crosses the Continental Divide three times.   Logistics To begin this route, Jasper can be reached by rail service from Edmonton, Alberta. Along its entire length, small towns at regular intervals provide ample services, but plan ahead due to crowded tourist conditions, especially in the Canadian Park System and in Glacier National Park. Reservations at both hostels and campgrounds are recommended. For off-road bicycling and primitive camping, a water purifier is necessary.   GREAT PARKS SOUTH The cyclist is rewarded by a continuous setting of dramatic mountain scenery, national forests, parks, monuments, and many climbs and descents over passes. Off-road mountain-biking opportunities abound at the various ski hills along the route, which offer singletrack riding on quiet forest trails, serviced by bustling tourist villages. This route can be ridden from early summer to mid-fall. Trail Ridge Road is closed between October and June. Note that snow can occur at any time during the summer in the Rocky Mountains. Due to changing local conditions, it is difficult to predict any major wind patterns. Altitude sickness can slow you down, so preparation for the high altitude is important. Arriving a few days before your trip begins is a good way to acclimate.   The route begins in northern Colorado in the ski town of Steamboat Springs. After a gut-busting climb out of Steamboat Springs to Rabbit Ears Pass, you'll find open grazing land and national forest lands heading into Kremmling. There is heavy summer tourist activity from Hot Sulpher Springs to Granby, the southern entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park. Traffic is heavy throughout the park, and the terrain is extreme. From Estes Park to Georgetown, this area is the playground for Denver, the surrounding communities on the Front Range and also much of the nation. Communities from Keystone to Breckenridge have become major year-round tourist destinations, so be prepared for traffic and recreational vehicles. South of Fairplay, the route becomes more rural and traverses the high, open land of South Park. After crossing Trout Creek Pass, the route drops into the Arkansas River Valley near Buena Vista. The western slope of the Colorado Rocky Mountains is old mining country, from Salida all the way into Durango. Around Dolores, the mountains give way to the dry, open Four Corners region, highlighted by Mesa Verde National Park. Durango is the southern terminus of the historic Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, the only remaining regularly scheduled narrow-gauge passenger train.   Terrain On this route, you will cross eleven mountain passes, and six of these will be over the Continental Divide. The highest point is at 12,183 feet in Rocky Mountain National Park. The route follows a few river valleys, but for the most part you will be either climbing or decending.   Logistics In Colorado, high-altitude services from campground water to grocery stores can shut down early in the autumn depending on weather. A water purifier is recommended. Due to high levels of tourist activity in the summer, reservations for accommodations and campgrounds are recommended.   PLEASE REMEMBER TO CHECK FOR UPDATED ADDENDA BEFORE STARTING A TRIP!       http://www.cyclocamping.com/proddetail.asp?prod=GOTBC-1201 http://www.cyclocamping.com/proddetail.asp?prod=GOTBC-1201 http://www.cyclocamping.com/prodimages/small/GOTBC-1201-1.jpg     Map Features     Adventure Cycling Association developed the best cross-country, loop, coastal and inland cycling routes available, with turn-by-turn directions, detailed navigational instructions for the tricky sections, and elevation profiles in the high country. The maps are also waterproof and sized to fit in a handlebar-bag window or jersey pocket.   ADVENTURE CYCLE MAP INCLUDE:   Service symbols indicating the locations of campgrounds, hostels, motels, gas stations, groceries, restaurants, post offices, and bike shops Narratives with turn-by-turn instructions for traveling in either direction Distances given in miles and kilometers Contour lines providing a general idea of elevation gains and losses Elevation profiles in mountainous regions with major ascents and descents indicated Details about the natural history and cultural heritage along the route A weather chart providing average monthly rainfall and mean temperatures at various points along the route Large-scale detail maps of urban or congested areas Summaries of riding conditions to provide information on road surfaces, traffic volumes, and areas of caution Our Online Addenda, where updates are always available and current These routes are available to you in 300 to 400-mile map sections, so you can plan anything from a weekend trip to a multi-month adventure. Our routes feature the backroads of America where you can experience the communities and rural landscapes that make our country unique. We want you to see a rural America that can't be seen from the freeways. Our generous members and supporters are helping to create and maintain our legacy and gift to the nation -- the Adventure Cycling Route Network.     THE FINER DETAILS OF ADVENTURE CYCLING MAPS   Adventure Cycling Association maps are divided in a dozen 40-60 miles sections (1/2 a day to 1 day biking), this is an example of one of those section:     Bi-directional Narratives: Narratives have detailed turn-by-turn instructions for traveling in either direction. The number preceding each directive indicates the distance you've come since the beginning of the map panel at the matchline. (The number following in parentheses is the distance in kilometers.) Changes in road names and numbers are marked by stars both in the narrative and on the map panel.     Locator Box: The locator box gives an idea of your progress on the map section. For an overview of the route, the Index Map shows a larger scale version of the route's location.     Matchlines: Matchlines are solid pink lines on each end of the map panel intersecting the route. The narrative leads you from matchline to matchline. Once you "reach" the matchline, turn to the next map panel and begin following its narrative, again proceeding from the near matchline to the far matchline.     Service Symbols: Symbols correspond with the service information on the text side of the map, and tell bicyclists what sort of services they will encounter along the route. These include campgrounds, bike shops, grocery stores, libraries, restaurants, post offices, hostels, motels, bed and breakfasts, and hotels.     Elevation Profiles: Elevation profiles indicate major ascents and descents. On the Lewis & Clark Trail maps (as shown here), the profile is attached to each map panel. On other maps, in the mountainous regions of the country, the profile appears in one continuous panel on the text side of the map. (Not all map sections have elevation profiles.)     North Arrow: The north arrow is not necessarily up as it is on most maps, and it changes orientation from panel to panel. This allows as many miles of the route as possible to be depicted on each map panel.     End Mileages: The mileage to either end of the route section is shown at the border of each map panel.     Annual Events and Points of Interest: For your information, selected museums, points of interest, and events are included, where space allows, on the map panels. Museums have a brief description of their exhibits. Annual events have a brief description and the time of year they occur.         Great Parks Route   Jasper, AB, to Durango, CO - 7 map set (2,518.5 mi.)         GREAT PARKS NORTH Even in the height of summer, cyclists must be prepared for cold nights and occasional snow in the higher elevations. The Canadian parks, with their wide road shoulders, provide excellent cycling conditions, though motorized traffic during the tourist season is heavy. Towns outside the parks, such as Fernie, British Columbia, offer information and ample opportunities for the off-road cycling enthusiast. Fascinating side trips abound for natural and geological sightseeing, which include aerial trams, hiking onto glaciers, and whitewater rafting. So, allow extra time beyond bicycling for these activities. This route should be ridden from early summer to mid-fall. Going-to-the-Sun Highway in Glacier National Park is usually closed until early June (and has limited hours for cyclists). Note that snow can occur at any time during the summer in the Rocky Mountains. Due to changing local conditions, it is difficult to predict any major wind patterns.     The route begins in Jasper, Alberta, a busy tourist center in the heart of Jasper National Park, one of the five Canadian Parks the route traverses. You will be amazed by the scenery: glacial lakes, dramatic waterfalls, piercingly steep mountains covered with glaciers, and a tremendous variety of wildlife; you will stop frequent just to marvel at the beauty. Be sure to ride cautiously among the tourists in recreational vehicles. As you head south, over several passes through the parks, take the time to go to Lake Louise and Banff, which both offer a wide variety of tourist services and charm. After 230 miles of amazing vistas, you'll leave Kootenay National Park and descend steeply into the town of Radium Hot Springs. Stop for an enjoyable soak in the soothing hot mineral pools. From Radium Hot Springs southward to Elko, the western side of the Rockies offers gentler cycling following the Columbia and Kootenay river systems. At Elko, the route turns east over the Continental Divide through a series of small mining communities. You'll see the prairies begin on the eastern slope and traverse the foothills through Waterton Lakes National Park, another mountain jewel of the Canadian Parks. The border crossing into the United States at Chief Mountain is only open from mid-May through mid-September, and then you're in Glacier National Park in Montana, crossing the Divide back to the western side on the spectacular Going-to-the-Sun Highway. You'll find no major climbs or descents after leaving the park, and the route mainly follows river valleys bracketed by mountain ranges all the way into Missoula.   Terrain The northern portion of the route is a series of climbs/descents over passes into various river valleys. In the south, you'll stay in the valleys and experience a more rolling terrain. The route crosses the Continental Divide three times.   Logistics To begin this route, Jasper can be reached by rail service from Edmonton, Alberta. Along its entire length, small towns at regular intervals provide ample services, but plan ahead due to crowded tourist conditions, especially in the Canadian Park System and in Glacier National Park. Reservations at both hostels and campgrounds are recommended. For off-road bicycling and primitive camping, a water purifier is necessary.   GREAT PARKS SOUTH The cyclist is rewarded by a continuous setting of dramatic mountain scenery, national forests, parks, monuments, and many climbs and descents over passes. Off-road mountain-biking opportunities abound at the various ski hills along the route, which offer singletrack riding on quiet forest trails, serviced by bustling tourist villages. This route can be ridden from early summer to mid-fall. Trail Ridge Road is closed between October and June. Note that snow can occur at any time during the summer in the Rocky Mountains. Due to changing local conditions, it is difficult to predict any major wind patterns. Altitude sickness can slow you down, so preparation for the high altitude is important. Arriving a few days before your trip begins is a good way to acclimate.   The route begins in northern Colorado in the ski town of Steamboat Springs. After a gut-busting climb out of Steamboat Springs to Rabbit Ears Pass, you'll find open grazing land and national forest lands heading into Kremmling. There is heavy summer tourist activity from Hot Sulpher Springs to Granby, the southern entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park. Traffic is heavy throughout the park, and the terrain is extreme. From Estes Park to Georgetown, this area is the playground for Denver, the surrounding communities on the Front Range and also much of the nation. Communities from Keystone to Breckenridge have become major year-round tourist destinations, so be prepared for traffic and recreational vehicles. South of Fairplay, the route becomes more rural and traverses the high, open land of South Park. After crossing Trout Creek Pass, the route drops into the Arkansas River Valley near Buena Vista. The western slope of the Colorado Rocky Mountains is old mining country, from Salida all the way into Durango. Around Dolores, the mountains give way to the dry, open Four Corners region, highlighted by Mesa Verde National Park. Durango is the southern terminus of the historic Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, the only remaining regularly scheduled narrow-gauge passenger train.   Terrain On this route, you will cross eleven mountain passes, and six of these will be over the Continental Divide. The highest point is at 12,183 feet in Rocky Mountain National Park. The route follows a few river valleys, but for the most part you will be either climbing or decending.   Logistics In Colorado, high-altitude services from campground water to grocery stores can shut down early in the autumn depending on weather. A water purifier is recommended. Due to high levels of tourist activity in the summer, reservations for accommodations and campgrounds are recommended.   PLEASE REMEMBER TO CHECK FOR UPDATED ADDENDA BEFORE STARTING A TRIP!       http://www.cyclocamping.com/proddetail.asp?prod=GOTBC-1202 http://www.cyclocamping.com/proddetail.asp?prod=GOTBC-1202 http://www.cyclocamping.com/prodimages/small/GOTBC-1202-1.jpg     Map Features     Adventure Cycling Association developed the best cross-country, loop, coastal and inland cycling routes available, with turn-by-turn directions, detailed navigational instructions for the tricky sections, and elevation profiles in the high country. The maps are also waterproof and sized to fit in a handlebar-bag window or jersey pocket.   ADVENTURE CYCLE MAP INCLUDE:   Service symbols indicating the locations of campgrounds, hostels, motels, gas stations, groceries, restaurants, post offices, and bike shops Narratives with turn-by-turn instructions for traveling in either direction Distances given in miles and kilometers Contour lines providing a general idea of elevation gains and losses Elevation profiles in mountainous regions with major ascents and descents indicated Details about the natural history and cultural heritage along the route A weather chart providing average monthly rainfall and mean temperatures at various points along the route Large-scale detail maps of urban or congested areas Summaries of riding conditions to provide information on road surfaces, traffic volumes, and areas of caution Our Online Addenda, where updates are always available and current These routes are available to you in 300 to 400-mile map sections, so you can plan anything from a weekend trip to a multi-month adventure. Our routes feature the backroads of America where you can experience the communities and rural landscapes that make our country unique. We want you to see a rural America that can't be seen from the freeways. Our generous members and supporters are helping to create and maintain our legacy and gift to the nation -- the Adventure Cycling Route Network.     THE FINER DETAILS OF ADVENTURE CYCLING MAPS   Adventure Cycling Association maps are divided in a dozen 40-60 miles sections (1/2 a day to 1 day biking), this is an example of one of those section:     Bi-directional Narratives: Narratives have detailed turn-by-turn instructions for traveling in either direction. The number preceding each directive indicates the distance you've come since the beginning of the map panel at the matchline. (The number following in parentheses is the distance in kilometers.) Changes in road names and numbers are marked by stars both in the narrative and on the map panel.     Locator Box: The locator box gives an idea of your progress on the map section. For an overview of the route, the Index Map shows a larger scale version of the route's location.     Matchlines: Matchlines are solid pink lines on each end of the map panel intersecting the route. The narrative leads you from matchline to matchline. Once you "reach" the matchline, turn to the next map panel and begin following its narrative, again proceeding from the near matchline to the far matchline.     Service Symbols: Symbols correspond with the service information on the text side of the map, and tell bicyclists what sort of services they will encounter along the route. These include campgrounds, bike shops, grocery stores, libraries, restaurants, post offices, hostels, motels, bed and breakfasts, and hotels.     Elevation Profiles: Elevation profiles indicate major ascents and descents. On the Lewis & Clark Trail maps (as shown here), the profile is attached to each map panel. On other maps, in the mountainous regions of the country, the profile appears in one continuous panel on the text side of the map. (Not all map sections have elevation profiles.)     North Arrow: The north arrow is not necessarily up as it is on most maps, and it changes orientation from panel to panel. This allows as many miles of the route as possible to be depicted on each map panel.     End Mileages: The mileage to either end of the route section is shown at the border of each map panel.     Annual Events and Points of Interest: For your information, selected museums, points of interest, and events are included, where space allows, on the map panels. Museums have a brief description of their exhibits. Annual events have a brief description and the time of year they occur.         Great Parks Route   Jasper, AB, to Durango, CO - 7 map set (2,518.5 mi.)         GREAT PARKS NORTH Even in the height of summer, cyclists must be prepared for cold nights and occasional snow in the higher elevations. The Canadian parks, with their wide road shoulders, provide excellent cycling conditions, though motorized traffic during the tourist season is heavy. Towns outside the parks, such as Fernie, British Columbia, offer information and ample opportunities for the off-road cycling enthusiast. Fascinating side trips abound for natural and geological sightseeing, which include aerial trams, hiking onto glaciers, and whitewater rafting. So, allow extra time beyond bicycling for these activities. This route should be ridden from early summer to mid-fall. Going-to-the-Sun Highway in Glacier National Park is usually closed until early June (and has limited hours for cyclists). Note that snow can occur at any time during the summer in the Rocky Mountains. Due to changing local conditions, it is difficult to predict any major wind patterns.     The route begins in Jasper, Alberta, a busy tourist center in the heart of Jasper National Park, one of the five Canadian Parks the route traverses. You will be amazed by the scenery: glacial lakes, dramatic waterfalls, piercingly steep mountains covered with glaciers, and a tremendous variety of wildlife; you will stop frequent just to marvel at the beauty. Be sure to ride cautiously among the tourists in recreational vehicles. As you head south, over several passes through the parks, take the time to go to Lake Louise and Banff, which both offer a wide variety of tourist services and charm. After 230 miles of amazing vistas, you'll leave Kootenay National Park and descend steeply into the town of Radium Hot Springs. Stop for an enjoyable soak in the soothing hot mineral pools. From Radium Hot Springs southward to Elko, the western side of the Rockies offers gentler cycling following the Columbia and Kootenay river systems. At Elko, the route turns east over the Continental Divide through a series of small mining communities. You'll see the prairies begin on the eastern slope and traverse the foothills through Waterton Lakes National Park, another mountain jewel of the Canadian Parks. The border crossing into the United States at Chief Mountain is only open from mid-May through mid-September, and then you're in Glacier National Park in Montana, crossing the Divide back to the western side on the spectacular Going-to-the-Sun Highway. You'll find no major climbs or descents after leaving the park, and the route mainly follows river valleys bracketed by mountain ranges all the way into Missoula.   Terrain The northern portion of the route is a series of climbs/descents over passes into various river valleys. In the south, you'll stay in the valleys and experience a more rolling terrain. The route crosses the Continental Divide three times.   Logistics To begin this route, Jasper can be reached by rail service from Edmonton, Alberta. Along its entire length, small towns at regular intervals provide ample services, but plan ahead due to crowded tourist conditions, especially in the Canadian Park System and in Glacier National Park. Reservations at both hostels and campgrounds are recommended. For off-road bicycling and primitive camping, a water purifier is necessary.   GREAT PARKS SOUTH The cyclist is rewarded by a continuous setting of dramatic mountain scenery, national forests, parks, monuments, and many climbs and descents over passes. Off-road mountain-biking opportunities abound at the various ski hills along the route, which offer singletrack riding on quiet forest trails, serviced by bustling tourist villages. This route can be ridden from early summer to mid-fall. Trail Ridge Road is closed between October and June. Note that snow can occur at any time during the summer in the Rocky Mountains. Due to changing local conditions, it is difficult to predict any major wind patterns. Altitude sickness can slow you down, so preparation for the high altitude is important. Arriving a few days before your trip begins is a good way to acclimate.   The route begins in northern Colorado in the ski town of Steamboat Springs. After a gut-busting climb out of Steamboat Springs to Rabbit Ears Pass, you'll find open grazing land and national forest lands heading into Kremmling. There is heavy summer tourist activity from Hot Sulpher Springs to Granby, the southern entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park. Traffic is heavy throughout the park, and the terrain is extreme. From Estes Park to Georgetown, this area is the playground for Denver, the surrounding communities on the Front Range and also much of the nation. Communities from Keystone to Breckenridge have become major year-round tourist destinations, so be prepared for traffic and recreational vehicles. South of Fairplay, the route becomes more rural and traverses the high, open land of South Park. After crossing Trout Creek Pass, the route drops into the Arkansas River Valley near Buena Vista. The western slope of the Colorado Rocky Mountains is old mining country, from Salida all the way into Durango. Around Dolores, the mountains give way to the dry, open Four Corners region, highlighted by Mesa Verde National Park. Durango is the southern terminus of the historic Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, the only remaining regularly scheduled narrow-gauge passenger train.   Terrain On this route, you will cross eleven mountain passes, and six of these will be over the Continental Divide. The highest point is at 12,183 feet in Rocky Mountain National Park. The route follows a few river valleys, but for the most part you will be either climbing or decending.   Logistics In Colorado, high-altitude services from campground water to grocery stores can shut down early in the autumn depending on weather. A water purifier is recommended. Due to high levels of tourist activity in the summer, reservations for accommodations and campgrounds are recommended.   PLEASE REMEMBER TO CHECK FOR UPDATED ADDENDA BEFORE STARTING A TRIP!       http://www.cyclocamping.com/proddetail.asp?prod=GOTBC-1121 http://www.cyclocamping.com/proddetail.asp?prod=GOTBC-1121 http://www.cyclocamping.com/prodimages/small/GOTBC-1121-1.jpg     Map Features      Adventure Cycling Association developed the best cross-country, loop, coastal and inland cycling routes available, with turn-by-turn directions, detailed navigational instructions for the tricky sections, and elevation profiles in the high country. The maps are also waterproof and sized to fit in a handlebar-bag window or jersey pocket.   ADVENTURE CYCLE MAP INCLUDE:   Service symbols indicating the locations of campgrounds, hostels, motels, gas stations, groceries, restaurants, post offices, and bike shops Narratives with turn-by-turn instructions for traveling in either direction Distances given in miles and kilometers Contour lines providing a general idea of elevation gains and losses Elevation profiles in mountainous regions with major ascents and descents indicated Details about the natural history and cultural heritage along the route A weather chart providing average monthly rainfall and mean temperatures at various points along the route Large-scale detail maps of urban or congested areas Summaries of riding conditions to provide information on road surfaces, traffic volumes, and areas of caution Our Online Addenda, where updates are always available and current These routes are available to you in 300 to 400-mile map sections, so you can plan anything from a weekend trip to a multi-month adventure. Our routes feature the backroads of America where you can experience the communities and rural landscapes that make our country unique. We want you to see a rural America that can't be seen from the freeways. Our generous members and supporters are helping to create and maintain our legacy and gift to the nation -- the Adventure Cycling Route Network.     THE FINER DETAILS OF ADVENTURE CYCLING MAPS   Adventure Cycling Association maps are divided in a dozen 40-60 miles sections (1/2 a day to 1 day biking), this is an example of one of those section:     Bi-directional Narratives: Narratives have detailed turn-by-turn instructions for traveling in either direction. The number preceding each directive indicates the distance you've come since the beginning of the map panel at the matchline. (The number following in parentheses is the distance in kilometers.) Changes in road names and numbers are marked by stars both in the narrative and on the map panel.     Locator Box: The locator box gives an idea of your progress on the map section. For an overview of the route, the Index Map shows a larger scale version of the route's location.     Matchlines: Matchlines are solid pink lines on each end of the map panel intersecting the route. The narrative leads you from matchline to matchline. Once you "reach" the matchline, turn to the next map panel and begin following its narrative, again proceeding from the near matchline to the far matchline.     Service Symbols: Symbols correspond with the service information on the text side of the map, and tell bicyclists what sort of services they will encounter along the route. These include campgrounds, bike shops, grocery stores, libraries, restaurants, post offices, hostels, motels, bed and breakfasts, and hotels.     Elevation Profiles: Elevation profiles indicate major ascents and descents. On the Lewis & Clark Trail maps (as shown here), the profile is attached to each map panel. On other maps, in the mountainous regions of the country, the profile appears in one continuous panel on the text side of the map. (Not all map sections have elevation profiles.)     North Arrow: The north arrow is not necessarily up as it is on most maps, and it changes orientation from panel to panel. This allows as many miles of the route as possible to be depicted on each map panel.     End Mileages: The mileage to either end of the route section is shown at the border of each map panel.     Annual Events and Points of Interest: For your information, selected museums, points of interest, and events are included, where space allows, on the map panels. Museums have a brief description of their exhibits. Annual events have a brief description and the time of year they occur.         Northern Tier Route    Anacortes, WA, to Bar Harbor, ME - 11 map set (4,316 mi.)         ANACORTES, WASHINGTON, TO FARGO, NORTH DAKOTA   This portion of the Northern Tier begins in Anacortes, Washington, which is located on a peninsula in Puget Sound. Anacortes is also the jumping-off point for folks going to the San Juan Islands, a favorite cycling destination. At the start, the combination of lush forest and ocean feeds and moistens the soul. Heading eastward along the rushing Skagit River, you carry that feeling up to the top of Rainy and Washington passes in the Cascade Mountains. Descending to the east side of the Cascades brings you into the drier part of the state and the widely known orchard country of the Okanogan Valley. Leaving this valley, you'll be climbing and descending several more passes full of ponderosa pines and finding many sleepy farming communities down along the rivers you cross. The river valleys tend to run in a north-south direction across the northwestern part of the United States, and because the route travels west to east, you will be working your way up and down. There are plenty of towns, rivers, lakes, mountains, and forests in eastern Washington, Idaho, and western Montana until you reach Cut Bank, on the eastern slope of the Rocky Mountains.   The spectacular Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park is a hard climb but well worth it for the scenery. The route takes a jump into Canada to access Waterton Lakes National Park, and then you'll head back into the States at Del Bonita, a little-used border crossing. Cut Bank is the beginning of the Great Plains, and from here on you'll start praying for tailwinds. Supposedly, heading eastward, tailwinds predominate in the summer. The route uses U.S. Highway 2, the main road through central and eastern Montana along the railroad, so camping spots can occasionally be somewhat loud. Wherever possible, side roads are used to relieve the monotony of being on the highway. Afternoon thundershowers are a constant companion out on the Plains. You'll follow the Missouri River from Havre, Montana, to New Town, North Dakota, and the plains of Montana eventually transform into the green rolling hills of western North Dakota. Sunflowers are everywhere, and they become the crop of choice as the terrain flattens out in eastern North Dakota. Fargo is located on the banks of the Red River, on the border of North Dakota and Minnesota.   Terrain The route lets you warm up slightly before the major climbing begins. There are four major passes in the first 300 miles, and Sherman Pass is the highest at 5,575 feet. It then becomes rolling, the route following river valleys until you reach Glacier National Park. Logan Pass, on Going-to-the-Sun Road, is the last major climb. There's a series of roller-coaster hills heading into Canada. Once you get about 20 miles east of the Rocky Mountains, it starts to become Big Sky country with moderately hilly plains. The plains roll out through Montana and become hilly in western North Dakota, and then the route flattens out in eastern North Dakota.   Logistics Services are generally good along this route. There is a 71-mile stretch of limited services between Cardston, Alberta, and Cut Bank, Montana. There are also some sporadic spots lacking services in central Montana, but nothing is farther apart than a day's ride. The people of the towns across the plains of Montana and North Dakota are super generous and genuine. Camping in town parks is not uncommon. Another 74-mile stretch of limited services occurs between Williston and New Town, North Dakota. Only a few bike shops exist between Whitefish, Montana, and Fargo, North Dakota, a distance of 1,150 miles.   FARGO, NORTH DAKOTA, TO MUSCATINE, IOWA This portion of the Northern Tier Route can be ridden from late spring to late fall. Due to changing local conditions, it is difficult to predict any major wind patterns, but tornadoes are common in Iowa. They mostly occur in May and June.   Heading east from Fargo and Moorhead in the Red River Valley, you begin to slowly leave the Great Plains. Lakes and hills become the standard scenery, and the resident mosquitos increase in number. The birthplace of the Mississippi River is in Lake Itasca State Park, in northern Minnesota. This area is so full of forests, lakes, and rivers that it draws many recreationalists during the summer months. The route follows the Mississippi River, until it heads east around the cities of Minneapolis, St. Paul, and surrounding towns. There is a spur into Minneapolis-St. Paul that ends with access to the airport. Along the St. Croix and Mississippi rivers, the towns are older and the buildings much more historic. At Prescott, Wisconsin, the St. Croix joins the Mississippi, and the route again follows that river southward for 175 miles. You'll leave the river occasionally on less-traveled roads, but these also mean climbing and descending the bluffs along the river. As you enter Iowa, you may think that the terrain is going to flatten out, but the hills continue after leaving the river. Small laid-back farm towns are abundant through Iowa. The route ends in Muscatine, an old industrial town located on the Mississippi.   Terrain The terrain is continuously rolling over the entire length of this route. Ask any Iowan if Iowa is flat, they will respond with a "No," especially in the northeastern part of the state.   Logistics Services are abundant throughout the route, and the townsfolk are friendly in the Midwest.   MUSCATINE, IOWA, TO BAR HARBOR, MAINE This portion of the Northern Tier can be ridden from early spring to late fall. Due to changing local conditions, it is difficult to predict any major wind patterns. The Midwest and Great Lakes summers can be hot, especially inland. Along the Great Lakes, breezes provide cooling and are sometimes a friend and sometimes a foe.   Beginning at the Mississippi River, the route traverses the large prairie farms of central Illinois and the smaller farms of Indiana and Ohio, eventually reaching the shore of Lake Erie at Huron, Ohio. Here a side trip takes you to nearby Cedar Point Amusement Park, where you can ride the greatest number of the most pulse-raising roller coasters in the country. Or you can take a ferry to one or more of the Lake Erie islands and visit the area where Admiral Perry defeated the British fleet in the War of 1812. Heading through busy Cleveland, you'll pass the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, the Science Center and its IMAX theater, a retired Great Lakes iron ore freighter, and a World War II submarine.   Along the lake shore in eastern Ohio and Pennsylvania, the route passes through small towns, where tourists flock to the shore during summer. In Erie, Pennsylvania, you can explore the miles of sand beach at Presque Isle State Park and the replica of the sailing ship Niagara, Admiral Perry's flagship in the War of 1812 Battle of Lake Erie. Leaving Erie, the route enters the fruit and wine region of Pennsylvania and New York and hugs the relatively rural lake shore to the outskirts of Buffalo, New York. Views across Lake Erie of the Buffalo skyline and Canada usher the cyclist into the bustle of the southern end of the metropolis. The route passes the magnificent Basilica of Our Lady of Victory in Lackawanna, and seeing its magnificent Italian Renaissance and French Baroque architecture is a must. Through the suburbs to the Peace Bridge, ride carefully through the city streets. The route takes you to the lakefront Buffalo Naval and Military Park with World War II vessels open for visits.   After crossing the Peace Bridge into Canada you'll follow one of the most scenic recreational trails in North America along the Niagara River to Niagara Falls. Take the cable car ride across the Whirlpool Rapids and visit the other attractions along the trail. Then you'll cross back into the U.S., enjoying the view of the Niagara Gorge. Heading east, the route uses the Erie Canalway Trail for 85 miles along a waterway dripping with history. Take the time to explore the towns along the canal. At Palmyra, the route turns north to Lake Ontario, where it follows the lake shore to Sodus Bay, dips inland to Fair Haven, and then leaves the Great Lakes to cross the Adirondack Mountains and arrive at Ticonderoga on Lake Champlain. A visit to Fort Ticonderoga will give meaning to Revolutionary War history.   After a short ferry ride over the lake, you are in New England, cycling through Vermont farmland, forested hills, and picturesque villages. In New Hampshire, the route follows the Connecticut River, passing through the villages of Orford with its ridge houses and Haverhill, a classic New England village with its fenced village commons and old homes. The route crosses the White Mountains, the backbone of New Hampshire, on the famous Kancamagus Highway. Mt. Washington, noted for its fierce weather, is just a few miles north, and the Kancamagus shares some of its weather reputation. Be prepared, even in summer. Entering Maine, you'll traverse forests and fields, arriving at Rockport on the coast. Allow time to savor the quintessential ambiance of the coastal towns. Before crossing the Penobscot River, stray off route to visit Ft. Knox, an exceptionally well-preserved unused Revolutionary War fort. Finally, don't end your trip without cycling the gravel carriage paths of Acadia National Park and viewing a sunrise from atop Cadillac Mountain. The park is near the town of Bar Harbor, at the end of the route.   Terrain The first 946 miles of this route (from the Mississippi River to Palmyra, New York) is virtually flat. Illinois has some gently rolling prairie and is treeless except in towns. The trees increase in Indiana. East of Cleveland, Ohio, the route climbs to a low ridge for a few miles and then descends back to the lake shore until Buffalo, New York. From Buffalo to Palmyra, the route experiences only slight elevation changes at the locks along the Erie Canal. The mountains in New York, Vermont, and New Hampshire extend north and south, and the route travels east-west so the remainder of the route has a lot a variety — flat sections along river valleys and several challenging climbs. The Kancamagus Pass at 2,855 feet is the highest point on this portion of the Northern Tier Route.   Logistics Overall most services along this route can be found only in towns. Campgrounds are reasonably plentiful, but there are a few gaps, and advanced planning is needed if you are camping. Some cyclists may want to do the eastern portions of this route during the colors of autumn. If you do, call ahead to verify campgrounds because many close after Labor Day. If staying indoors, make advance reservations.   PLEASE REMEMBER TO CHECK FOR UPDATED ADDENDA BEFORE STARTING A TRIP!       http://www.cyclocamping.com/proddetail.asp?prod=GOTBC-1103 http://www.cyclocamping.com/proddetail.asp?prod=GOTBC-1103 http://www.cyclocamping.com/prodimages/small/GOTBC-1103-1.jpg     Map Features      Adventure Cycling Association developed the best cross-country, loop, coastal and inland cycling routes available, with turn-by-turn directions, detailed navigational instructions for the tricky sections, and elevation profiles in the high country. The maps are also waterproof and sized to fit in a handlebar-bag window or jersey pocket.   ADVENTURE CYCLE MAP INCLUDE:   Service symbols indicating the locations of campgrounds, hostels, motels, gas stations, groceries, restaurants, post offices, and bike shops Narratives with turn-by-turn instructions for traveling in either direction Distances given in miles and kilometers Contour lines providing a general idea of elevation gains and losses Elevation profiles in mountainous regions with major ascents and descents indicated Details about the natural history and cultural heritage along the route A weather chart providing average monthly rainfall and mean temperatures at various points along the route Large-scale detail maps of urban or congested areas Summaries of riding conditions to provide information on road surfaces, traffic volumes, and areas of caution Our Online Addenda, where updates are always available and current These routes are available to you in 300 to 400-mile map sections, so you can plan anything from a weekend trip to a multi-month adventure. Our routes feature the backroads of America where you can experience the communities and rural landscapes that make our country unique. We want you to see a rural America that can't be seen from the freeways. Our generous members and supporters are helping to create and maintain our legacy and gift to the nation -- the Adventure Cycling Route Network.     THE FINER DETAILS OF ADVENTURE CYCLING MAPS   Adventure Cycling Association maps are divided in a dozen 40-60 miles sections (1/2 a day to 1 day biking), this is an example of one of those section:     Bi-directional Narratives: Narratives have detailed turn-by-turn instructions for traveling in either direction. The number preceding each directive indicates the distance you've come since the beginning of the map panel at the matchline. (The number following in parentheses is the distance in kilometers.) Changes in road names and numbers are marked by stars both in the narrative and on the map panel.     Locator Box: The locator box gives an idea of your progress on the map section. For an overview of the route, the Index Map shows a larger scale version of the route's location.     Matchlines: Matchlines are solid pink lines on each end of the map panel intersecting the route. The narrative leads you from matchline to matchline. Once you "reach" the matchline, turn to the next map panel and begin following its narrative, again proceeding from the near matchline to the far matchline.     Service Symbols: Symbols correspond with the service information on the text side of the map, and tell bicyclists what sort of services they will encounter along the route. These include campgrounds, bike shops, grocery stores, libraries, restaurants, post offices, hostels, motels, bed and breakfasts, and hotels.     Elevation Profiles: Elevation profiles indicate major ascents and descents. On the Lewis & Clark Trail maps (as shown here), the profile is attached to each map panel. On other maps, in the mountainous regions of the country, the profile appears in one continuous panel on the text side of the map. (Not all map sections have elevation profiles.)     North Arrow: The north arrow is not necessarily up as it is on most maps, and it changes orientation from panel to panel. This allows as many miles of the route as possible to be depicted on each map panel.     End Mileages: The mileage to either end of the route section is shown at the border of each map panel.     Annual Events and Points of Interest: For your information, selected museums, points of interest, and events are included, where space allows, on the map panels. Museums have a brief description of their exhibits. Annual events have a brief description and the time of year they occur.         Northern Tier Route    Anacortes, WA, to Bar Harbor, ME - 11 map set (4,316 mi.)         ANACORTES, WASHINGTON, TO FARGO, NORTH DAKOTA   This portion of the Northern Tier begins in Anacortes, Washington, which is located on a peninsula in Puget Sound. Anacortes is also the jumping-off point for folks going to the San Juan Islands, a favorite cycling destination. At the start, the combination of lush forest and ocean feeds and moistens the soul. Heading eastward along the rushing Skagit River, you carry that feeling up to the top of Rainy and Washington passes in the Cascade Mountains. Descending to the east side of the Cascades brings you into the drier part of the state and the widely known orchard country of the Okanogan Valley. Leaving this valley, you'll be climbing and descending several more passes full of ponderosa pines and finding many sleepy farming communities down along the rivers you cross. The river valleys tend to run in a north-south direction across the northwestern part of the United States, and because the route travels west to east, you will be working your way up and down. There are plenty of towns, rivers, lakes, mountains, and forests in eastern Washington, Idaho, and western Montana until you reach Cut Bank, on the eastern slope of the Rocky Mountains.   The spectacular Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park is a hard climb but well worth it for the scenery. The route takes a jump into Canada to access Waterton Lakes National Park, and then you'll head back into the States at Del Bonita, a little-used border crossing. Cut Bank is the beginning of the Great Plains, and from here on you'll start praying for tailwinds. Supposedly, heading eastward, tailwinds predominate in the summer. The route uses U.S. Highway 2, the main road through central and eastern Montana along the railroad, so camping spots can occasionally be somewhat loud. Wherever possible, side roads are used to relieve the monotony of being on the highway. Afternoon thundershowers are a constant companion out on the Plains. You'll follow the Missouri River from Havre, Montana, to New Town, North Dakota, and the plains of Montana eventually transform into the green rolling hills of western North Dakota. Sunflowers are everywhere, and they become the crop of choice as the terrain flattens out in eastern North Dakota. Fargo is located on the banks of the Red River, on the border of North Dakota and Minnesota.   Terrain The route lets you warm up slightly before the major climbing begins. There are four major passes in the first 300 miles, and Sherman Pass is the highest at 5,575 feet. It then becomes rolling, the route following river valleys until you reach Glacier National Park. Logan Pass, on Going-to-the-Sun Road, is the last major climb. There's a series of roller-coaster hills heading into Canada. Once you get about 20 miles east of the Rocky Mountains, it starts to become Big Sky country with moderately hilly plains. The plains roll out through Montana and become hilly in western North Dakota, and then the route flattens out in eastern North Dakota.   Logistics Services are generally good along this route. There is a 71-mile stretch of limited services between Cardston, Alberta, and Cut Bank, Montana. There are also some sporadic spots lacking services in central Montana, but nothing is farther apart than a day's ride. The people of the towns across the plains of Montana and North Dakota are super generous and genuine. Camping in town parks is not uncommon. Another 74-mile stretch of limited services occurs between Williston and New Town, North Dakota. Only a few bike shops exist between Whitefish, Montana, and Fargo, North Dakota, a distance of 1,150 miles.   FARGO, NORTH DAKOTA, TO MUSCATINE, IOWA This portion of the Northern Tier Route can be ridden from late spring to late fall. Due to changing local conditions, it is difficult to predict any major wind patterns, but tornadoes are common in Iowa. They mostly occur in May and June.   Heading east from Fargo and Moorhead in the Red River Valley, you begin to slowly leave the Great Plains. Lakes and hills become the standard scenery, and the resident mosquitos increase in number. The birthplace of the Mississippi River is in Lake Itasca State Park, in northern Minnesota. This area is so full of forests, lakes, and rivers that it draws many recreationalists during the summer months. The route follows the Mississippi River, until it heads east around the cities of Minneapolis, St. Paul, and surrounding towns. There is a spur into Minneapolis-St. Paul that ends with access to the airport. Along the St. Croix and Mississippi rivers, the towns are older and the buildings much more historic. At Prescott, Wisconsin, the St. Croix joins the Mississippi, and the route again follows that river southward for 175 miles. You'll leave the river occasionally on less-traveled roads, but these also mean climbing and descending the bluffs along the river. As you enter Iowa, you may think that the terrain is going to flatten out, but the hills continue after leaving the river. Small laid-back farm towns are abundant through Iowa. The route ends in Muscatine, an old industrial town located on the Mississippi.   Terrain The terrain is continuously rolling over the entire length of this route. Ask any Iowan if Iowa is flat, they will respond with a "No," especially in the northeastern part of the state.   Logistics Services are abundant throughout the route, and the townsfolk are friendly in the Midwest.   MUSCATINE, IOWA, TO BAR HARBOR, MAINE This portion of the Northern Tier can be ridden from early spring to late fall. Due to changing local conditions, it is difficult to predict any major wind patterns. The Midwest and Great Lakes summers can be hot, especially inland. Along the Great Lakes, breezes provide cooling and are sometimes a friend and sometimes a foe.   Beginning at the Mississippi River, the route traverses the large prairie farms of central Illinois and the smaller farms of Indiana and Ohio, eventually reaching the shore of Lake Erie at Huron, Ohio. Here a side trip takes you to nearby Cedar Point Amusement Park, where you can ride the greatest number of the most pulse-raising roller coasters in the country. Or you can take a ferry to one or more of the Lake Erie islands and visit the area where Admiral Perry defeated the British fleet in the War of 1812. Heading through busy Cleveland, you'll pass the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, the Science Center and its IMAX theater, a retired Great Lakes iron ore freighter, and a World War II submarine.   Along the lake shore in eastern Ohio and Pennsylvania, the route passes through small towns, where tourists flock to the shore during summer. In Erie, Pennsylvania, you can explore the miles of sand beach at Presque Isle State Park and the replica of the sailing ship Niagara, Admiral Perry's flagship in the War of 1812 Battle of Lake Erie. Leaving Erie, the route enters the fruit and wine region of Pennsylvania and New York and hugs the relatively rural lake shore to the outskirts of Buffalo, New York. Views across Lake Erie of the Buffalo skyline and Canada usher the cyclist into the bustle of the southern end of the metropolis. The route passes the magnificent Basilica of Our Lady of Victory in Lackawanna, and seeing its magnificent Italian Renaissance and French Baroque architecture is a must. Through the suburbs to the Peace Bridge, ride carefully through the city streets. The route takes you to the lakefront Buffalo Naval and Military Park with World War II vessels open for visits.   After crossing the Peace Bridge into Canada you'll follow one of the most scenic recreational trails in North America along the Niagara River to Niagara Falls. Take the cable car ride across the Whirlpool Rapids and visit the other attractions along the trail. Then you'll cross back into the U.S., enjoying the view of the Niagara Gorge. Heading east, the route uses the Erie Canalway Trail for 85 miles along a waterway dripping with history. Take the time to explore the towns along the canal. At Palmyra, the route turns north to Lake Ontario, where it follows the lake shore to Sodus Bay, dips inland to Fair Haven, and then leaves the Great Lakes to cross the Adirondack Mountains and arrive at Ticonderoga on Lake Champlain. A visit to Fort Ticonderoga will give meaning to Revolutionary War history.   After a short ferry ride over the lake, you are in New England, cycling through Vermont farmland, forested hills, and picturesque villages. In New Hampshire, the route follows the Connecticut River, passing through the villages of Orford with its ridge houses and Haverhill, a classic New England village with its fenced village commons and old homes. The route crosses the White Mountains, the backbone of New Hampshire, on the famous Kancamagus Highway. Mt. Washington, noted for its fierce weather, is just a few miles north, and the Kancamagus shares some of its weather reputation. Be prepared, even in summer. Entering Maine, you'll traverse forests and fields, arriving at Rockport on the coast. Allow time to savor the quintessential ambiance of the coastal towns. Before crossing the Penobscot River, stray off route to visit Ft. Knox, an exceptionally well-preserved unused Revolutionary War fort. Finally, don't end your trip without cycling the gravel carriage paths of Acadia National Park and viewing a sunrise from atop Cadillac Mountain. The park is near the town of Bar Harbor, at the end of the route.   Terrain The first 946 miles of this route (from the Mississippi River to Palmyra, New York) is virtually flat. Illinois has some gently rolling prairie and is treeless except in towns. The trees increase in Indiana. East of Cleveland, Ohio, the route climbs to a low ridge for a few miles and then descends back to the lake shore until Buffalo, New York. From Buffalo to Palmyra, the route experiences only slight elevation changes at the locks along the Erie Canal. The mountains in New York, Vermont, and New Hampshire extend north and south, and the route travels east-west so the remainder of the route has a lot a variety — flat sections along river valleys and several challenging climbs. The Kancamagus Pass at 2,855 feet is the highest point on this portion of the Northern Tier Route.   Logistics Overall most services along this route can be found only in towns. Campgrounds are reasonably plentiful, but there are a few gaps, and advanced planning is needed if you are camping. Some cyclists may want to do the eastern portions of this route during the colors of autumn. If you do, call ahead to verify campgrounds because many close after Labor Day. If staying indoors, make advance reservations.   PLEASE REMEMBER TO CHECK FOR UPDATED ADDENDA BEFORE STARTING A TRIP!       http://www.cyclocamping.com/proddetail.asp?prod=GOTBC-1104 http://www.cyclocamping.com/proddetail.asp?prod=GOTBC-1104 http://www.cyclocamping.com/prodimages/small/GOTBC-1104-1.jpg     Map Features      Adventure Cycling Association developed the best cross-country, loop, coastal and inland cycling routes available, with turn-by-turn directions, detailed navigational instructions for the tricky sections, and elevation profiles in the high country. The maps are also waterproof and sized to fit in a handlebar-bag window or jersey pocket.   ADVENTURE CYCLE MAP INCLUDE:   Service symbols indicating the locations of campgrounds, hostels, motels, gas stations, groceries, restaurants, post offices, and bike shops Narratives with turn-by-turn instructions for traveling in either direction Distances given in miles and kilometers Contour lines providing a general idea of elevation gains and losses Elevation profiles in mountainous regions with major ascents and descents indicated Details about the natural history and cultural heritage along the route A weather chart providing average monthly rainfall and mean temperatures at various points along the route Large-scale detail maps of urban or congested areas Summaries of riding conditions to provide information on road surfaces, traffic volumes, and areas of caution Our Online Addenda, where updates are always available and current These routes are available to you in 300 to 400-mile map sections, so you can plan anything from a weekend trip to a multi-month adventure. Our routes feature the backroads of America where you can experience the communities and rural landscapes that make our country unique. We want you to see a rural America that can't be seen from the freeways. Our generous members and supporters are helping to create and maintain our legacy and gift to the nation -- the Adventure Cycling Route Network.     THE FINER DETAILS OF ADVENTURE CYCLING MAPS   Adventure Cycling Association maps are divided in a dozen 40-60 miles sections (1/2 a day to 1 day biking), this is an example of one of those section:     Bi-directional Narratives: Narratives have detailed turn-by-turn instructions for traveling in either direction. The number preceding each directive indicates the distance you've come since the beginning of the map panel at the matchline. (The number following in parentheses is the distance in kilometers.) Changes in road names and numbers are marked by stars both in the narrative and on the map panel.     Locator Box: The locator box gives an idea of your progress on the map section. For an overview of the route, the Index Map shows a larger scale version of the route's location.     Matchlines: Matchlines are solid pink lines on each end of the map panel intersecting the route. The narrative leads you from matchline to matchline. Once you "reach" the matchline, turn to the next map panel and begin following its narrative, again proceeding from the near matchline to the far matchline.     Service Symbols: Symbols correspond with the service information on the text side of the map, and tell bicyclists what sort of services they will encounter along the route. These include campgrounds, bike shops, grocery stores, libraries, restaurants, post offices, hostels, motels, bed and breakfasts, and hotels.     Elevation Profiles: Elevation profiles indicate major ascents and descents. On the Lewis & Clark Trail maps (as shown here), the profile is attached to each map panel. On other maps, in the mountainous regions of the country, the profile appears in one continuous panel on the text side of the map. (Not all map sections have elevation profiles.)     North Arrow: The north arrow is not necessarily up as it is on most maps, and it changes orientation from panel to panel. This allows as many miles of the route as possible to be depicted on each map panel.     End Mileages: The mileage to either end of the route section is shown at the border of each map panel.     Annual Events and Points of Interest: For your information, selected museums, points of interest, and events are included, where space allows, on the map panels. Museums have a brief description of their exhibits. Annual events have a brief description and the time of year they occur.         Northern Tier Route    Anacortes, WA, to Bar Harbor, ME - 11 map set (4,316 mi.)         ANACORTES, WASHINGTON, TO FARGO, NORTH DAKOTA   This portion of the Northern Tier begins in Anacortes, Washington, which is located on a peninsula in Puget Sound. Anacortes is also the jumping-off point for folks going to the San Juan Islands, a favorite cycling destination. At the start, the combination of lush forest and ocean feeds and moistens the soul. Heading eastward along the rushing Skagit River, you carry that feeling up to the top of Rainy and Washington passes in the Cascade Mountains. Descending to the east side of the Cascades brings you into the drier part of the state and the widely known orchard country of the Okanogan Valley. Leaving this valley, you'll be climbing and descending several more passes full of ponderosa pines and finding many sleepy farming communities down along the rivers you cross. The river valleys tend to run in a north-south direction across the northwestern part of the United States, and because the route travels west to east, you will be working your way up and down. There are plenty of towns, rivers, lakes, mountains, and forests in eastern Washington, Idaho, and western Montana until you reach Cut Bank, on the eastern slope of the Rocky Mountains.   The spectacular Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park is a hard climb but well worth it for the scenery. The route takes a jump into Canada to access Waterton Lakes National Park, and then you'll head back into the States at Del Bonita, a little-used border crossing. Cut Bank is the beginning of the Great Plains, and from here on you'll start praying for tailwinds. Supposedly, heading eastward, tailwinds predominate in the summer. The route uses U.S. Highway 2, the main road through central and eastern Montana along the railroad, so camping spots can occasionally be somewhat loud. Wherever possible, side roads are used to relieve the monotony of being on the highway. Afternoon thundershowers are a constant companion out on the Plains. You'll follow the Missouri River from Havre, Montana, to New Town, North Dakota, and the plains of Montana eventually transform into the green rolling hills of western North Dakota. Sunflowers are everywhere, and they become the crop of choice as the terrain flattens out in eastern North Dakota. Fargo is located on the banks of the Red River, on the border of North Dakota and Minnesota.   Terrain The route lets you warm up slightly before the major climbing begins. There are four major passes in the first 300 miles, and Sherman Pass is the highest at 5,575 feet. It then becomes rolling, the route following river valleys until you reach Glacier National Park. Logan Pass, on Going-to-the-Sun Road, is the last major climb. There's a series of roller-coaster hills heading into Canada. Once you get about 20 miles east of the Rocky Mountains, it starts to become Big Sky country with moderately hilly plains. The plains roll out through Montana and become hilly in western North Dakota, and then the route flattens out in eastern North Dakota.   Logistics Services are generally good along this route. There is a 71-mile stretch of limited services between Cardston, Alberta, and Cut Bank, Montana. There are also some sporadic spots lacking services in central Montana, but nothing is farther apart than a day's ride. The people of the towns across the plains of Montana and North Dakota are super generous and genuine. Camping in town parks is not uncommon. Another 74-mile stretch of limited services occurs between Williston and New Town, North Dakota. Only a few bike shops exist between Whitefish, Montana, and Fargo, North Dakota, a distance of 1,150 miles.   FARGO, NORTH DAKOTA, TO MUSCATINE, IOWA This portion of the Northern Tier Route can be ridden from late spring to late fall. Due to changing local conditions, it is difficult to predict any major wind patterns, but tornadoes are common in Iowa. They mostly occur in May and June.   Heading east from Fargo and Moorhead in the Red River Valley, you begin to slowly leave the Great Plains. Lakes and hills become the standard scenery, and the resident mosquitos increase in number. The birthplace of the Mississippi River is in Lake Itasca State Park, in northern Minnesota. This area is so full of forests, lakes, and rivers that it draws many recreationalists during the summer months. The route follows the Mississippi River, until it heads east around the cities of Minneapolis, St. Paul, and surrounding towns. There is a spur into Minneapolis-St. Paul that ends with access to the airport. Along the St. Croix and Mississippi rivers, the towns are older and the buildings much more historic. At Prescott, Wisconsin, the St. Croix joins the Mississippi, and the route again follows that river southward for 175 miles. You'll leave the river occasionally on less-traveled roads, but these also mean climbing and descending the bluffs along the river. As you enter Iowa, you may think that the terrain is going to flatten out, but the hills continue after leaving the river. Small laid-back farm towns are abundant through Iowa. The route ends in Muscatine, an old industrial town located on the Mississippi.   Terrain The terrain is continuously rolling over the entire length of this route. Ask any Iowan if Iowa is flat, they will respond with a "No," especially in the northeastern part of the state.   Logistics Services are abundant throughout the route, and the townsfolk are friendly in the Midwest.   MUSCATINE, IOWA, TO BAR HARBOR, MAINE This portion of the Northern Tier can be ridden from early spring to late fall. Due to changing local conditions, it is difficult to predict any major wind patterns. The Midwest and Great Lakes summers can be hot, especially inland. Along the Great Lakes, breezes provide cooling and are sometimes a friend and sometimes a foe.   Beginning at the Mississippi River, the route traverses the large prairie farms of central Illinois and the smaller farms of Indiana and Ohio, eventually reaching the shore of Lake Erie at Huron, Ohio. Here a side trip takes you to nearby Cedar Point Amusement Park, where you can ride the greatest number of the most pulse-raising roller coasters in the country. Or you can take a ferry to one or more of the Lake Erie islands and visit the area where Admiral Perry defeated the British fleet in the War of 1812. Heading through busy Cleveland, you'll pass the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, the Science Center and its IMAX theater, a retired Great Lakes iron ore freighter, and a World War II submarine.   Along the lake shore in eastern Ohio and Pennsylvania, the route passes through small towns, where tourists flock to the shore during summer. In Erie, Pennsylvania, you can explore the miles of sand beach at Presque Isle State Park and the replica of the sailing ship Niagara, Admiral Perry's flagship in the War of 1812 Battle of Lake Erie. Leaving Erie, the route enters the fruit and wine region of Pennsylvania and New York and hugs the relatively rural lake shore to the outskirts of Buffalo, New York. Views across Lake Erie of the Buffalo skyline and Canada usher the cyclist into the bustle of the southern end of the metropolis. The route passes the magnificent Basilica of Our Lady of Victory in Lackawanna, and seeing its magnificent Italian Renaissance and French Baroque architecture is a must. Through the suburbs to the Peace Bridge, ride carefully through the city streets. The route takes you to the lakefront Buffalo Naval and Military Park with World War II vessels open for visits.   After crossing the Peace Bridge into Canada you'll follow one of the most scenic recreational trails in North America along the Niagara River to Niagara Falls. Take the cable car ride across the Whirlpool Rapids and visit the other attractions along the trail. Then you'll cross back into the U.S., enjoying the view of the Niagara Gorge. Heading east, the route uses the Erie Canalway Trail for 85 miles along a waterway dripping with history. Take the time to explore the towns along the canal. At Palmyra, the route turns north to Lake Ontario, where it follows the lake shore to Sodus Bay, dips inland to Fair Haven, and then leaves the Great Lakes to cross the Adirondack Mountains and arrive at Ticonderoga on Lake Champlain. A visit to Fort Ticonderoga will give meaning to Revolutionary War history.   After a short ferry ride over the lake, you are in New England, cycling through Vermont farmland, forested hills, and picturesque villages. In New Hampshire, the route follows the Connecticut River, passing through the villages of Orford with its ridge houses and Haverhill, a classic New England village with its fenced village commons and old homes. The route crosses the White Mountains, the backbone of New Hampshire, on the famous Kancamagus Highway. Mt. Washington, noted for its fierce weather, is just a few miles north, and the Kancamagus shares some of its weather reputation. Be prepared, even in summer. Entering Maine, you'll traverse forests and fields, arriving at Rockport on the coast. Allow time to savor the quintessential ambiance of the coastal towns. Before crossing the Penobscot River, stray off route to visit Ft. Knox, an exceptionally well-preserved unused Revolutionary War fort. Finally, don't end your trip without cycling the gravel carriage paths of Acadia National Park and viewing a sunrise from atop Cadillac Mountain. The park is near the town of Bar Harbor, at the end of the route.   Terrain The first 946 miles of this route (from the Mississippi River to Palmyra, New York) is virtually flat. Illinois has some gently rolling prairie and is treeless except in towns. The trees increase in Indiana. East of Cleveland, Ohio, the route climbs to a low ridge for a few miles and then descends back to the lake shore until Buffalo, New York. From Buffalo to Palmyra, the route experiences only slight elevation changes at the locks along the Erie Canal. The mountains in New York, Vermont, and New Hampshire extend north and south, and the route travels east-west so the remainder of the route has a lot a variety — flat sections along river valleys and several challenging climbs. The Kancamagus Pass at 2,855 feet is the highest point on this portion of the Northern Tier Route.   Logistics Overall most services along this route can be found only in towns. Campgrounds are reasonably plentiful, but there are a few gaps, and advanced planning is needed if you are camping. Some cyclists may want to do the eastern portions of this route during the colors of autumn. If you do, call ahead to verify campgrounds because many close after Labor Day. If staying indoors, make advance reservations.   PLEASE REMEMBER TO CHECK FOR UPDATED ADDENDA BEFORE STARTING A TRIP!       http://www.cyclocamping.com/proddetail.asp?prod=GOTBC-1122 http://www.cyclocamping.com/proddetail.asp?prod=GOTBC-1122 http://www.cyclocamping.com/prodimages/small/GOTBC-1122-1.jpg     Map Features      Adventure Cycling Association developed the best cross-country, loop, coastal and inland cycling routes available, with turn-by-turn directions, detailed navigational instructions for the tricky sections, and elevation profiles in the high country. The maps are also waterproof and sized to fit in a handlebar-bag window or jersey pocket.   ADVENTURE CYCLE MAP INCLUDE:   Service symbols indicating the locations of campgrounds, hostels, motels, gas stations, groceries, restaurants, post offices, and bike shops Narratives with turn-by-turn instructions for traveling in either direction Distances given in miles and kilometers Contour lines providing a general idea of elevation gains and losses Elevation profiles in mountainous regions with major ascents and descents indicated Details about the natural history and cultural heritage along the route A weather chart providing average monthly rainfall and mean temperatures at various points along the route Large-scale detail maps of urban or congested areas Summaries of riding conditions to provide information on road surfaces, traffic volumes, and areas of caution Our Online Addenda, where updates are always available and current These routes are available to you in 300 to 400-mile map sections, so you can plan anything from a weekend trip to a multi-month adventure. Our routes feature the backroads of America where you can experience the communities and rural landscapes that make our country unique. We want you to see a rural America that can't be seen from the freeways. Our generous members and supporters are helping to create and maintain our legacy and gift to the nation -- the Adventure Cycling Route Network.     THE FINER DETAILS OF ADVENTURE CYCLING MAPS   Adventure Cycling Association maps are divided in a dozen 40-60 miles sections (1/2 a day to 1 day biking), this is an example of one of those section:     Bi-directional Narratives: Narratives have detailed turn-by-turn instructions for traveling in either direction. The number preceding each directive indicates the distance you've come since the beginning of the map panel at the matchline. (The number following in parentheses is the distance in kilometers.) Changes in road names and numbers are marked by stars both in the narrative and on the map panel.     Locator Box: The locator box gives an idea of your progress on the map section. For an overview of the route, the Index Map shows a larger scale version of the route's location.     Matchlines: Matchlines are solid pink lines on each end of the map panel intersecting the route. The narrative leads you from matchline to matchline. Once you "reach" the matchline, turn to the next map panel and begin following its narrative, again proceeding from the near matchline to the far matchline.     Service Symbols: Symbols correspond with the service information on the text side of the map, and tell bicyclists what sort of services they will encounter along the route. These include campgrounds, bike shops, grocery stores, libraries, restaurants, post offices, hostels, motels, bed and breakfasts, and hotels.     Elevation Profiles: Elevation profiles indicate major ascents and descents. On the Lewis & Clark Trail maps (as shown here), the profile is attached to each map panel. On other maps, in the mountainous regions of the country, the profile appears in one continuous panel on the text side of the map. (Not all map sections have elevation profiles.)     North Arrow: The north arrow is not necessarily up as it is on most maps, and it changes orientation from panel to panel. This allows as many miles of the route as possible to be depicted on each map panel.     End Mileages: The mileage to either end of the route section is shown at the border of each map panel.     Annual Events and Points of Interest: For your information, selected museums, points of interest, and events are included, where space allows, on the map panels. Museums have a brief description of their exhibits. Annual events have a brief description and the time of year they occur.         Northern Tier Route    Anacortes, WA, to Bar Harbor, ME - 11 map set (4,316 mi.)         ANACORTES, WASHINGTON, TO FARGO, NORTH DAKOTA   This portion of the Northern Tier begins in Anacortes, Washington, which is located on a peninsula in Puget Sound. Anacortes is also the jumping-off point for folks going to the San Juan Islands, a favorite cycling destination. At the start, the combination of lush forest and ocean feeds and moistens the soul. Heading eastward along the rushing Skagit River, you carry that feeling up to the top of Rainy and Washington passes in the Cascade Mountains. Descending to the east side of the Cascades brings you into the drier part of the state and the widely known orchard country of the Okanogan Valley. Leaving this valley, you'll be climbing and descending several more passes full of ponderosa pines and finding many sleepy farming communities down along the rivers you cross. The river valleys tend to run in a north-south direction across the northwestern part of the United States, and because the route travels west to east, you will be working your way up and down. There are plenty of towns, rivers, lakes, mountains, and forests in eastern Washington, Idaho, and western Montana until you reach Cut Bank, on the eastern slope of the Rocky Mountains.   The spectacular Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park is a hard climb but well worth it for the scenery. The route takes a jump into Canada to access Waterton Lakes National Park, and then you'll head back into the States at Del Bonita, a little-used border crossing. Cut Bank is the beginning of the Great Plains, and from here on you'll start praying for tailwinds. Supposedly, heading eastward, tailwinds predominate in the summer. The route uses U.S. Highway 2, the main road through central and eastern Montana along the railroad, so camping spots can occasionally be somewhat loud. Wherever possible, side roads are used to relieve the monotony of being on the highway. Afternoon thundershowers are a constant companion out on the Plains. You'll follow the Missouri River from Havre, Montana, to New Town, North Dakota, and the plains of Montana eventually transform into the green rolling hills of western North Dakota. Sunflowers are everywhere, and they become the crop of choice as the terrain flattens out in eastern North Dakota. Fargo is located on the banks of the Red River, on the border of North Dakota and Minnesota.   Terrain The route lets you warm up slightly before the major climbing begins. There are four major passes in the first 300 miles, and Sherman Pass is the highest at 5,575 feet. It then becomes rolling, the route following river valleys until you reach Glacier National Park. Logan Pass, on Going-to-the-Sun Road, is the last major climb. There's a series of roller-coaster hills heading into Canada. Once you get about 20 miles east of the Rocky Mountains, it starts to become Big Sky country with moderately hilly plains. The plains roll out through Montana and become hilly in western North Dakota, and then the route flattens out in eastern North Dakota.   Logistics Services are generally good along this route. There is a 71-mile stretch of limited services between Cardston, Alberta, and Cut Bank, Montana. There are also some sporadic spots lacking services in central Montana, but nothing is farther apart than a day's ride. The people of the towns across the plains of Montana and North Dakota are super generous and genuine. Camping in town parks is not uncommon. Another 74-mile stretch of limited services occurs between Williston and New Town, North Dakota. Only a few bike shops exist between Whitefish, Montana, and Fargo, North Dakota, a distance of 1,150 miles.   FARGO, NORTH DAKOTA, TO MUSCATINE, IOWA This portion of the Northern Tier Route can be ridden from late spring to late fall. Due to changing local conditions, it is difficult to predict any major wind patterns, but tornadoes are common in Iowa. They mostly occur in May and June.   Heading east from Fargo and Moorhead in the Red River Valley, you begin to slowly leave the Great Plains. Lakes and hills become the standard scenery, and the resident mosquitos increase in number. The birthplace of the Mississippi River is in Lake Itasca State Park, in northern Minnesota. This area is so full of forests, lakes, and rivers that it draws many recreationalists during the summer months. The route follows the Mississippi River, until it heads east around the cities of Minneapolis, St. Paul, and surrounding towns. There is a spur into Minneapolis-St. Paul that ends with access to the airport. Along the St. Croix and Mississippi rivers, the towns are older and the buildings much more historic. At Prescott, Wisconsin, the St. Croix joins the Mississippi, and the route again follows that river southward for 175 miles. You'll leave the river occasionally on less-traveled roads, but these also mean climbing and descending the bluffs along the river. As you enter Iowa, you may think that the terrain is going to flatten out, but the hills continue after leaving the river. Small laid-back farm towns are abundant through Iowa. The route ends in Muscatine, an old industrial town located on the Mississippi.   Terrain The terrain is continuously rolling over the entire length of this route. Ask any Iowan if Iowa is flat, they will respond with a "No," especially in the northeastern part of the state.   Logistics Services are abundant throughout the route, and the townsfolk are friendly in the Midwest.   MUSCATINE, IOWA, TO BAR HARBOR, MAINE This portion of the Northern Tier can be ridden from early spring to late fall. Due to changing local conditions, it is difficult to predict any major wind patterns. The Midwest and Great Lakes summers can be hot, especially inland. Along the Great Lakes, breezes provide cooling and are sometimes a friend and sometimes a foe.   Beginning at the Mississippi River, the route traverses the large prairie farms of central Illinois and the smaller farms of Indiana and Ohio, eventually reaching the shore of Lake Erie at Huron, Ohio. Here a side trip takes you to nearby Cedar Point Amusement Park, where you can ride the greatest number of the most pulse-raising roller coasters in the country. Or you can take a ferry to one or more of the Lake Erie islands and visit the area where Admiral Perry defeated the British fleet in the War of 1812. Heading through busy Cleveland, you'll pass the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, the Science Center and its IMAX theater, a retired Great Lakes iron ore freighter, and a World War II submarine.   Along the lake shore in eastern Ohio and Pennsylvania, the route passes through small towns, where tourists flock to the shore during summer. In Erie, Pennsylvania, you can explore the miles of sand beach at Presque Isle State Park and the replica of the sailing ship Niagara, Admiral Perry's flagship in the War of 1812 Battle of Lake Erie. Leaving Erie, the route enters the fruit and wine region of Pennsylvania and New York and hugs the relatively rural lake shore to the outskirts of Buffalo, New York. Views across Lake Erie of the Buffalo skyline and Canada usher the cyclist into the bustle of the southern end of the metropolis. The route passes the magnificent Basilica of Our Lady of Victory in Lackawanna, and seeing its magnificent Italian Renaissance and French Baroque architecture is a must. Through the suburbs to the Peace Bridge, ride carefully through the city streets. The route takes you to the lakefront Buffalo Naval and Military Park with World War II vessels open for visits.   After crossing the Peace Bridge into Canada you'll follow one of the most scenic recreational trails in North America along the Niagara River to Niagara Falls. Take the cable car ride across the Whirlpool Rapids and visit the other attractions along the trail. Then you'll cross back into the U.S., enjoying the view of the Niagara Gorge. Heading east, the route uses the Erie Canalway Trail for 85 miles along a waterway dripping with history. Take the time to explore the towns along the canal. At Palmyra, the route turns north to Lake Ontario, where it follows the lake shore to Sodus Bay, dips inland to Fair Haven, and then leaves the Great Lakes to cross the Adirondack Mountains and arrive at Ticonderoga on Lake Champlain. A visit to Fort Ticonderoga will give meaning to Revolutionary War history.   After a short ferry ride over the lake, you are in New England, cycling through Vermont farmland, forested hills, and picturesque villages. In New Hampshire, the route follows the Connecticut River, passing through the villages of Orford with its ridge houses and Haverhill, a classic New England village with its fenced village commons and old homes. The route crosses the White Mountains, the backbone of New Hampshire, on the famous Kancamagus Highway. Mt. Washington, noted for its fierce weather, is just a few miles north, and the Kancamagus shares some of its weather reputation. Be prepared, even in summer. Entering Maine, you'll traverse forests and fields, arriving at Rockport on the coast. Allow time to savor the quintessential ambiance of the coastal towns. Before crossing the Penobscot River, stray off route to visit Ft. Knox, an exceptionally well-preserved unused Revolutionary War fort. Finally, don't end your trip without cycling the gravel carriage paths of Acadia National Park and viewing a sunrise from atop Cadillac Mountain. The park is near the town of Bar Harbor, at the end of the route.   Terrain The first 946 miles of this route (from the Mississippi River to Palmyra, New York) is virtually flat. Illinois has some gently rolling prairie and is treeless except in towns. The trees increase in Indiana. East of Cleveland, Ohio, the route climbs to a low ridge for a few miles and then descends back to the lake shore until Buffalo, New York. From Buffalo to Palmyra, the route experiences only slight elevation changes at the locks along the Erie Canal. The mountains in New York, Vermont, and New Hampshire extend north and south, and the route travels east-west so the remainder of the route has a lot a variety — flat sections along river valleys and several challenging climbs. The Kancamagus Pass at 2,855 feet is the highest point on this portion of the Northern Tier Route.   Logistics Overall most services along this route can be found only in towns. Campgrounds are reasonably plentiful, but there are a few gaps, and advanced planning is needed if you are camping. Some cyclists may want to do the eastern portions of this route during the colors of autumn. If you do, call ahead to verify campgrounds because many close after Labor Day. If staying indoors, make advance reservations.   PLEASE REMEMBER TO CHECK FOR UPDATED ADDENDA BEFORE STARTING A TRIP!       http://www.cyclocamping.com/proddetail.asp?prod=GOTBC-1123 http://www.cyclocamping.com/proddetail.asp?prod=GOTBC-1123 http://www.cyclocamping.com/prodimages/small/GOTBC-1123-1.jpg     Map Features      Adventure Cycling Association developed the best cross-country, loop, coastal and inland cycling routes available, with turn-by-turn directions, detailed navigational instructions for the tricky sections, and elevation profiles in the high country. The maps are also waterproof and sized to fit in a handlebar-bag window or jersey pocket.   ADVENTURE CYCLE MAP INCLUDE:   Service symbols indicating the locations of campgrounds, hostels, motels, gas stations, groceries, restaurants, post offices, and bike shops Narratives with turn-by-turn instructions for traveling in either direction Distances given in miles and kilometers Contour lines providing a general idea of elevation gains and losses Elevation profiles in mountainous regions with major ascents and descents indicated Details about the natural history and cultural heritage along the route A weather chart providing average monthly rainfall and mean temperatures at various points along the route Large-scale detail maps of urban or congested areas Summaries of riding conditions to provide information on road surfaces, traffic volumes, and areas of caution Our Online Addenda, where updates are always available and current These routes are available to you in 300 to 400-mile map sections, so you can plan anything from a weekend trip to a multi-month adventure. Our routes feature the backroads of America where you can experience the communities and rural landscapes that make our country unique. We want you to see a rural America that can't be seen from the freeways. Our generous members and supporters are helping to create and maintain our legacy and gift to the nation -- the Adventure Cycling Route Network.     THE FINER DETAILS OF ADVENTURE CYCLING MAPS   Adventure Cycling Association maps are divided in a dozen 40-60 miles sections (1/2 a day to 1 day biking), this is an example of one of those section:     Bi-directional Narratives: Narratives have detailed turn-by-turn instructions for traveling in either direction. The number preceding each directive indicates the distance you've come since the beginning of the map panel at the matchline. (The number following in parentheses is the distance in kilometers.) Changes in road names and numbers are marked by stars both in the narrative and on the map panel.     Locator Box: The locator box gives an idea of your progress on the map section. For an overview of the route, the Index Map shows a larger scale version of the route's location.     Matchlines: Matchlines are solid pink lines on each end of the map panel intersecting the route. The narrative leads you from matchline to matchline. Once you "reach" the matchline, turn to the next map panel and begin following its narrative, again proceeding from the near matchline to the far matchline.     Service Symbols: Symbols correspond with the service information on the text side of the map, and tell bicyclists what sort of services they will encounter along the route. These include campgrounds, bike shops, grocery stores, libraries, restaurants, post offices, hostels, motels, bed and breakfasts, and hotels.     Elevation Profiles: Elevation profiles indicate major ascents and descents. On the Lewis & Clark Trail maps (as shown here), the profile is attached to each map panel. On other maps, in the mountainous regions of the country, the profile appears in one continuous panel on the text side of the map. (Not all map sections have elevation profiles.)     North Arrow: The north arrow is not necessarily up as it is on most maps, and it changes orientation from panel to panel. This allows as many miles of the route as possible to be depicted on each map panel.     End Mileages: The mileage to either end of the route section is shown at the border of each map panel.     Annual Events and Points of Interest: For your information, selected museums, points of interest, and events are included, where space allows, on the map panels. Museums have a brief description of their exhibits. Annual events have a brief description and the time of year they occur.         Northern Tier Route    Anacortes, WA, to Bar Harbor, ME - 11 map set (4,316 mi.)         ANACORTES, WASHINGTON, TO FARGO, NORTH DAKOTA   This portion of the Northern Tier begins in Anacortes, Washington, which is located on a peninsula in Puget Sound. Anacortes is also the jumping-off point for folks going to the San Juan Islands, a favorite cycling destination. At the start, the combination of lush forest and ocean feeds and moistens the soul. Heading eastward along the rushing Skagit River, you carry that feeling up to the top of Rainy and Washington passes in the Cascade Mountains. Descending to the east side of the Cascades brings you into the drier part of the state and the widely known orchard country of the Okanogan Valley. Leaving this valley, you'll be climbing and descending several more passes full of ponderosa pines and finding many sleepy farming communities down along the rivers you cross. The river valleys tend to run in a north-south direction across the northwestern part of the United States, and because the route travels west to east, you will be working your way up and down. There are plenty of towns, rivers, lakes, mountains, and forests in eastern Washington, Idaho, and western Montana until you reach Cut Bank, on the eastern slope of the Rocky Mountains.   The spectacular Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park is a hard climb but well worth it for the scenery. The route takes a jump into Canada to access Waterton Lakes National Park, and then you'll head back into the States at Del Bonita, a little-used border crossing. Cut Bank is the beginning of the Great Plains, and from here on you'll start praying for tailwinds. Supposedly, heading eastward, tailwinds predominate in the summer. The route uses U.S. Highway 2, the main road through central and eastern Montana along the railroad, so camping spots can occasionally be somewhat loud. Wherever possible, side roads are used to relieve the monotony of being on the highway. Afternoon thundershowers are a constant companion out on the Plains. You'll follow the Missouri River from Havre, Montana, to New Town, North Dakota, and the plains of Montana eventually transform into the green rolling hills of western North Dakota. Sunflowers are everywhere, and they become the crop of choice as the terrain flattens out in eastern North Dakota. Fargo is located on the banks of the Red River, on the border of North Dakota and Minnesota.   Terrain The route lets you warm up slightly before the major climbing begins. There are four major passes in the first 300 miles, and Sherman Pass is the highest at 5,575 feet. It then becomes rolling, the route following river valleys until you reach Glacier National Park. Logan Pass, on Going-to-the-Sun Road, is the last major climb. There's a series of roller-coaster hills heading into Canada. Once you get about 20 miles east of the Rocky Mountains, it starts to become Big Sky country with moderately hilly plains. The plains roll out through Montana and become hilly in western North Dakota, and then the route flattens out in eastern North Dakota.   Logistics Services are generally good along this route. There is a 71-mile stretch of limited services between Cardston, Alberta, and Cut Bank, Montana. There are also some sporadic spots lacking services in central Montana, but nothing is farther apart than a day's ride. The people of the towns across the plains of Montana and North Dakota are super generous and genuine. Camping in town parks is not uncommon. Another 74-mile stretch of limited services occurs between Williston and New Town, North Dakota. Only a few bike shops exist between Whitefish, Montana, and Fargo, North Dakota, a distance of 1,150 miles.   FARGO, NORTH DAKOTA, TO MUSCATINE, IOWA This portion of the Northern Tier Route can be ridden from late spring to late fall. Due to changing local conditions, it is difficult to predict any major wind patterns, but tornadoes are common in Iowa. They mostly occur in May and June.   Heading east from Fargo and Moorhead in the Red River Valley, you begin to slowly leave the Great Plains. Lakes and hills become the standard scenery, and the resident mosquitos increase in number. The birthplace of the Mississippi River is in Lake Itasca State Park, in northern Minnesota. This area is so full of forests, lakes, and rivers that it draws many recreationalists during the summer months. The route follows the Mississippi River, until it heads east around the cities of Minneapolis, St. Paul, and surrounding towns. There is a spur into Minneapolis-St. Paul that ends with access to the airport. Along the St. Croix and Mississippi rivers, the towns are older and the buildings much more historic. At Prescott, Wisconsin, the St. Croix joins the Mississippi, and the route again follows that river southward for 175 miles. You'll leave the river occasionally on less-traveled roads, but these also mean climbing and descending the bluffs along the river. As you enter Iowa, you may think that the terrain is going to flatten out, but the hills continue after leaving the river. Small laid-back farm towns are abundant through Iowa. The route ends in Muscatine, an old industrial town located on the Mississippi.   Terrain The terrain is continuously rolling over the entire length of this route. Ask any Iowan if Iowa is flat, they will respond with a "No," especially in the northeastern part of the state.   Logistics Services are abundant throughout the route, and the townsfolk are friendly in the Midwest.   MUSCATINE, IOWA, TO BAR HARBOR, MAINE This portion of the Northern Tier can be ridden from early spring to late fall. Due to changing local conditions, it is difficult to predict any major wind patterns. The Midwest and Great Lakes summers can be hot, especially inland. Along the Great Lakes, breezes provide cooling and are sometimes a friend and sometimes a foe.   Beginning at the Mississippi River, the route traverses the large prairie farms of central Illinois and the smaller farms of Indiana and Ohio, eventually reaching the shore of Lake Erie at Huron, Ohio. Here a side trip takes you to nearby Cedar Point Amusement Park, where you can ride the greatest number of the most pulse-raising roller coasters in the country. Or you can take a ferry to one or more of the Lake Erie islands and visit the area where Admiral Perry defeated the British fleet in the War of 1812. Heading through busy Cleveland, you'll pass the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, the Science Center and its IMAX theater, a retired Great Lakes iron ore freighter, and a World War II submarine.   Along the lake shore in eastern Ohio and Pennsylvania, the route passes through small towns, where tourists flock to the shore during summer. In Erie, Pennsylvania, you can explore the miles of sand beach at Presque Isle State Park and the replica of the sailing ship Niagara, Admiral Perry's flagship in the War of 1812 Battle of Lake Erie. Leaving Erie, the route enters the fruit and wine region of Pennsylvania and New York and hugs the relatively rural lake shore to the outskirts of Buffalo, New York. Views across Lake Erie of the Buffalo skyline and Canada usher the cyclist into the bustle of the southern end of the metropolis. The route passes the magnificent Basilica of Our Lady of Victory in Lackawanna, and seeing its magnificent Italian Renaissance and French Baroque architecture is a must. Through the suburbs to the Peace Bridge, ride carefully through the city streets. The route takes you to the lakefront Buffalo Naval and Military Park with World War II vessels open for visits.   After crossing the Peace Bridge into Canada you'll follow one of the most scenic recreational trails in North America along the Niagara River to Niagara Falls. Take the cable car ride across the Whirlpool Rapids and visit the other attractions along the trail. Then you'll cross back into the U.S., enjoying the view of the Niagara Gorge. Heading east, the route uses the Erie Canalway Trail for 85 miles along a waterway dripping with history. Take the time to explore the towns along the canal. At Palmyra, the route turns north to Lake Ontario, where it follows the lake shore to Sodus Bay, dips inland to Fair Haven, and then leaves the Great Lakes to cross the Adirondack Mountains and arrive at Ticonderoga on Lake Champlain. A visit to Fort Ticonderoga will give meaning to Revolutionary War history.   After a short ferry ride over the lake, you are in New England, cycling through Vermont farmland, forested hills, and picturesque villages. In New Hampshire, the route follows the Connecticut River, passing through the villages of Orford with its ridge houses and Haverhill, a classic New England village with its fenced village commons and old homes. The route crosses the White Mountains, the backbone of New Hampshire, on the famous Kancamagus Highway. Mt. Washington, noted for its fierce weather, is just a few miles north, and the Kancamagus shares some of its weather reputation. Be prepared, even in summer. Entering Maine, you'll traverse forests and fields, arriving at Rockport on the coast. Allow time to savor the quintessential ambiance of the coastal towns. Before crossing the Penobscot River, stray off route to visit Ft. Knox, an exceptionally well-preserved unused Revolutionary War fort. Finally, don't end your trip without cycling the gravel carriage paths of Acadia National Park and viewing a sunrise from atop Cadillac Mountain. The park is near the town of Bar Harbor, at the end of the route.   Terrain The first 946 miles of this route (from the Mississippi River to Palmyra, New York) is virtually flat. Illinois has some gently rolling prairie and is treeless except in towns. The trees increase in Indiana. East of Cleveland, Ohio, the route climbs to a low ridge for a few miles and then descends back to the lake shore until Buffalo, New York. From Buffalo to Palmyra, the route experiences only slight elevation changes at the locks along the Erie Canal. The mountains in New York, Vermont, and New Hampshire extend north and south, and the route travels east-west so the remainder of the route has a lot a variety — flat sections along river valleys and several challenging climbs. The Kancamagus Pass at 2,855 feet is the highest point on this portion of the Northern Tier Route.   Logistics Overall most services along this route can be found only in towns. Campgrounds are reasonably plentiful, but there are a few gaps, and advanced planning is needed if you are camping. Some cyclists may want to do the eastern portions of this route during the colors of autumn. If you do, call ahead to verify campgrounds because many close after Labor Day. If staying indoors, make advance reservations.   PLEASE REMEMBER TO CHECK FOR UPDATED ADDENDA BEFORE STARTING A TRIP!       http://www.cyclocamping.com/proddetail.asp?prod=GOTBC-1124 http://www.cyclocamping.com/proddetail.asp?prod=GOTBC-1124 http://www.cyclocamping.com/prodimages/small/GOTBC-1124-1.jpg     Map Features      Adventure Cycling Association developed the best cross-country, loop, coastal and inland cycling routes available, with turn-by-turn directions, detailed navigational instructions for the tricky sections, and elevation profiles in the high country. The maps are also waterproof and sized to fit in a handlebar-bag window or jersey pocket.   ADVENTURE CYCLE MAP INCLUDE:   Service symbols indicating the locations of campgrounds, hostels, motels, gas stations, groceries, restaurants, post offices, and bike shops Narratives with turn-by-turn instructions for traveling in either direction Distances given in miles and kilometers Contour lines providing a general idea of elevation gains and losses Elevation profiles in mountainous regions with major ascents and descents indicated Details about the natural history and cultural heritage along the route A weather chart providing average monthly rainfall and mean temperatures at various points along the route Large-scale detail maps of urban or congested areas Summaries of riding conditions to provide information on road surfaces, traffic volumes, and areas of caution Our Online Addenda, where updates are always available and current These routes are available to you in 300 to 400-mile map sections, so you can plan anything from a weekend trip to a multi-month adventure. Our routes feature the backroads of America where you can experience the communities and rural landscapes that make our country unique. We want you to see a rural America that can't be seen from the freeways. Our generous members and supporters are helping to create and maintain our legacy and gift to the nation -- the Adventure Cycling Route Network.     THE FINER DETAILS OF ADVENTURE CYCLING MAPS   Adventure Cycling Association maps are divided in a dozen 40-60 miles sections (1/2 a day to 1 day biking), this is an example of one of those section:     Bi-directional Narratives: Narratives have detailed turn-by-turn instructions for traveling in either direction. The number preceding each directive indicates the distance you've come since the beginning of the map panel at the matchline. (The number following in parentheses is the distance in kilometers.) Changes in road names and numbers are marked by stars both in the narrative and on the map panel.     Locator Box: The locator box gives an idea of your progress on the map section. For an overview of the route, the Index Map shows a larger scale version of the route's location.     Matchlines: Matchlines are solid pink lines on each end of the map panel intersecting the route. The narrative leads you from matchline to matchline. Once you "reach" the matchline, turn to the next map panel and begin following its narrative, again proceeding from the near matchline to the far matchline.     Service Symbols: Symbols correspond with the service information on the text side of the map, and tell bicyclists what sort of services they will encounter along the route. These include campgrounds, bike shops, grocery stores, libraries, restaurants, post offices, hostels, motels, bed and breakfasts, and hotels.     Elevation Profiles: Elevation profiles indicate major ascents and descents. On the Lewis & Clark Trail maps (as shown here), the profile is attached to each map panel. On other maps, in the mountainous regions of the country, the profile appears in one continuous panel on the text side of the map. (Not all map sections have elevation profiles.)     North Arrow: The north arrow is not necessarily up as it is on most maps, and it changes orientation from panel to panel. This allows as many miles of the route as possible to be depicted on each map panel.     End Mileages: The mileage to either end of the route section is shown at the border of each map panel.     Annual Events and Points of Interest: For your information, selected museums, points of interest, and events are included, where space allows, on the map panels. Museums have a brief description of their exhibits. Annual events have a brief description and the time of year they occur.         Northern Tier Route    Anacortes, WA, to Bar Harbor, ME - 11 map set (4,316 mi.)         ANACORTES, WASHINGTON, TO FARGO, NORTH DAKOTA   This portion of the Northern Tier begins in Anacortes, Washington, which is located on a peninsula in Puget Sound. Anacortes is also the jumping-off point for folks going to the San Juan Islands, a favorite cycling destination. At the start, the combination of lush forest and ocean feeds and moistens the soul. Heading eastward along the rushing Skagit River, you carry that feeling up to the top of Rainy and Washington passes in the Cascade Mountains. Descending to the east side of the Cascades brings you into the drier part of the state and the widely known orchard country of the Okanogan Valley. Leaving this valley, you'll be climbing and descending several more passes full of ponderosa pines and finding many sleepy farming communities down along the rivers you cross. The river valleys tend to run in a north-south direction across the northwestern part of the United States, and because the route travels west to east, you will be working your way up and down. There are plenty of towns, rivers, lakes, mountains, and forests in eastern Washington, Idaho, and western Montana until you reach Cut Bank, on the eastern slope of the Rocky Mountains.   The spectacular Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park is a hard climb but well worth it for the scenery. The route takes a jump into Canada to access Waterton Lakes National Park, and then you'll head back into the States at Del Bonita, a little-used border crossing. Cut Bank is the beginning of the Great Plains, and from here on you'll start praying for tailwinds. Supposedly, heading eastward, tailwinds predominate in the summer. The route uses U.S. Highway 2, the main road through central and eastern Montana along the railroad, so camping spots can occasionally be somewhat loud. Wherever possible, side roads are used to relieve the monotony of being on the highway. Afternoon thundershowers are a constant companion out on the Plains. You'll follow the Missouri River from Havre, Montana, to New Town, North Dakota, and the plains of Montana eventually transform into the green rolling hills of western North Dakota. Sunflowers are everywhere, and they become the crop of choice as the terrain flattens out in eastern North Dakota. Fargo is located on the banks of the Red River, on the border of North Dakota and Minnesota.   Terrain The route lets you warm up slightly before the major climbing begins. There are four major passes in the first 300 miles, and Sherman Pass is the highest at 5,575 feet. It then becomes rolling, the route following river valleys until you reach Glacier National Park. Logan Pass, on Going-to-the-Sun Road, is the last major climb. There's a series of roller-coaster hills heading into Canada. Once you get about 20 miles east of the Rocky Mountains, it starts to become Big Sky country with moderately hilly plains. The plains roll out through Montana and become hilly in western North Dakota, and then the route flattens out in eastern North Dakota.   Logistics Services are generally good along this route. There is a 71-mile stretch of limited services between Cardston, Alberta, and Cut Bank, Montana. There are also some sporadic spots lacking services in central Montana, but nothing is farther apart than a day's ride. The people of the towns across the plains of Montana and North Dakota are super generous and genuine. Camping in town parks is not uncommon. Another 74-mile stretch of limited services occurs between Williston and New Town, North Dakota. Only a few bike shops exist between Whitefish, Montana, and Fargo, North Dakota, a distance of 1,150 miles.   FARGO, NORTH DAKOTA, TO MUSCATINE, IOWA This portion of the Northern Tier Route can be ridden from late spring to late fall. Due to changing local conditions, it is difficult to predict any major wind patterns, but tornadoes are common in Iowa. They mostly occur in May and June.   Heading east from Fargo and Moorhead in the Red River Valley, you begin to slowly leave the Great Plains. Lakes and hills become the standard scenery, and the resident mosquitos increase in number. The birthplace of the Mississippi River is in Lake Itasca State Park, in northern Minnesota. This area is so full of forests, lakes, and rivers that it draws many recreationalists during the summer months. The route follows the Mississippi River, until it heads east around the cities of Minneapolis, St. Paul, and surrounding towns. There is a spur into Minneapolis-St. Paul that ends with access to the airport. Along the St. Croix and Mississippi rivers, the towns are older and the buildings much more historic. At Prescott, Wisconsin, the St. Croix joins the Mississippi, and the route again follows that river southward for 175 miles. You'll leave the river occasionally on less-traveled roads, but these also mean climbing and descending the bluffs along the river. As you enter Iowa, you may think that the terrain is going to flatten out, but the hills continue after leaving the river. Small laid-back farm towns are abundant through Iowa. The route ends in Muscatine, an old industrial town located on the Mississippi.   Terrain The terrain is continuously rolling over the entire length of this route. Ask any Iowan if Iowa is flat, they will respond with a "No," especially in the northeastern part of the state.   Logistics Services are abundant throughout the route, and the townsfolk are friendly in the Midwest.   MUSCATINE, IOWA, TO BAR HARBOR, MAINE This portion of the Northern Tier can be ridden from early spring to late fall. Due to changing local conditions, it is difficult to predict any major wind patterns. The Midwest and Great Lakes summers can be hot, especially inland. Along the Great Lakes, breezes provide cooling and are sometimes a friend and sometimes a foe.   Beginning at the Mississippi River, the route traverses the large prairie farms of central Illinois and the smaller farms of Indiana and Ohio, eventually reaching the shore of Lake Erie at Huron, Ohio. Here a side trip takes you to nearby Cedar Point Amusement Park, where you can ride the greatest number of the most pulse-raising roller coasters in the country. Or you can take a ferry to one or more of the Lake Erie islands and visit the area where Admiral Perry defeated the British fleet in the War of 1812. Heading through busy Cleveland, you'll pass the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, the Science Center and its IMAX theater, a retired Great Lakes iron ore freighter, and a World War II submarine.   Along the lake shore in eastern Ohio and Pennsylvania, the route passes through small towns, where tourists flock to the shore during summer. In Erie, Pennsylvania, you can explore the miles of sand beach at Presque Isle State Park and the replica of the sailing ship Niagara, Admiral Perry's flagship in the War of 1812 Battle of Lake Erie. Leaving Erie, the route enters the fruit and wine region of Pennsylvania and New York and hugs the relatively rural lake shore to the outskirts of Buffalo, New York. Views across Lake Erie of the Buffalo skyline and Canada usher the cyclist into the bustle of the southern end of the metropolis. The route passes the magnificent Basilica of Our Lady of Victory in Lackawanna, and seeing its magnificent Italian Renaissance and French Baroque architecture is a must. Through the suburbs to the Peace Bridge, ride carefully through the city streets. The route takes you to the lakefront Buffalo Naval and Military Park with World War II vessels open for visits.   After crossing the Peace Bridge into Canada you'll follow one of the most scenic recreational trails in North America along the Niagara River to Niagara Falls. Take the cable car ride across the Whirlpool Rapids and visit the other attractions along the trail. Then you'll cross back into the U.S., enjoying the view of the Niagara Gorge. Heading east, the route uses the Erie Canalway Trail for 85 miles along a waterway dripping with history. Take the time to explore the towns along the canal. At Palmyra, the route turns north to Lake Ontario, where it follows the lake shore to Sodus Bay, dips inland to Fair Haven, and then leaves the Great Lakes to cross the Adirondack Mountains and arrive at Ticonderoga on Lake Champlain. A visit to Fort Ticonderoga will give meaning to Revolutionary War history.   After a short ferry ride over the lake, you are in New England, cycling through Vermont farmland, forested hills, and picturesque villages. In New Hampshire, the route follows the Connecticut River, passing through the villages of Orford with its ridge houses and Haverhill, a classic New England village with its fenced village commons and old homes. The route crosses the White Mountains, the backbone of New Hampshire, on the famous Kancamagus Highway. Mt. Washington, noted for its fierce weather, is just a few miles north, and the Kancamagus shares some of its weather reputation. Be prepared, even in summer. Entering Maine, you'll traverse forests and fields, arriving at Rockport on the coast. Allow time to savor the quintessential ambiance of the coastal towns. Before crossing the Penobscot River, stray off route to visit Ft. Knox, an exceptionally well-preserved unused Revolutionary War fort. Finally, don't end your trip without cycling the gravel carriage paths of Acadia National Park and viewing a sunrise from atop Cadillac Mountain. The park is near the town of Bar Harbor, at the end of the route.   Terrain The first 946 miles of this route (from the Mississippi River to Palmyra, New York) is virtually flat. Illinois has some gently rolling prairie and is treeless except in towns. The trees increase in Indiana. East of Cleveland, Ohio, the route climbs to a low ridge for a few miles and then descends back to the lake shore until Buffalo, New York. From Buffalo to Palmyra, the route experiences only slight elevation changes at the locks along the Erie Canal. The mountains in New York, Vermont, and New Hampshire extend north and south, and the route travels east-west so the remainder of the route has a lot a variety — flat sections along river valleys and several challenging climbs. The Kancamagus Pass at 2,855 feet is the highest point on this portion of the Northern Tier Route.   Logistics Overall most services along this route can be found only in towns. Campgrounds are reasonably plentiful, but there are a few gaps, and advanced planning is needed if you are camping. Some cyclists may want to do the eastern portions of this route during the colors of autumn. If you do, call ahead to verify campgrounds because many close after Labor Day. If staying indoors, make advance reservations.   PLEASE REMEMBER TO CHECK FOR UPDATED ADDENDA BEFORE STARTING A TRIP!       http://www.cyclocamping.com/proddetail.asp?prod=GOTBC-1301 http://www.cyclocamping.com/proddetail.asp?prod=GOTBC-1301 http://www.cyclocamping.com/prodimages/small/GOTBC-1301-1.jpg     Map Features      Adventure Cycling Association developed the best cross-country, loop, coastal and inland cycling routes available, with turn-by-turn directions, detailed navigational instructions for the tricky sections, and elevation profiles in the high country. The maps are also waterproof and sized to fit in a handlebar-bag window or jersey pocket.   ADVENTURE CYCLE MAP INCLUDE:   Service symbols indicating the locations of campgrounds, hostels, motels, gas stations, groceries, restaurants, post offices, and bike shops Narratives with turn-by-turn instructions for traveling in either direction Distances given in miles and kilometers Contour lines providing a general idea of elevation gains and losses Elevation profiles in mountainous regions with major ascents and descents indicated Details about the natural history and cultural heritage along the route A weather chart providing average monthly rainfall and mean temperatures at various points along the route Large-scale detail maps of urban or congested areas Summaries of riding conditions to provide information on road surfaces, traffic volumes, and areas of caution Our Online Addenda, where updates are always available and current These routes are available to you in 300 to 400-mile map sections, so you can plan anything from a weekend trip to a multi-month adventure. Our routes feature the backroads of America where you can experience the communities and rural landscapes that make our country unique. We want you to see a rural America that can't be seen from the freeways. Our generous members and supporters are helping to create and maintain our legacy and gift to the nation -- the Adventure Cycling Route Network.     THE FINER DETAILS OF ADVENTURE CYCLING MAPS   Adventure Cycling Association maps are divided in a dozen 40-60 miles sections (1/2 a day to 1 day biking), this is an example of one of those section:     Bi-directional Narratives: Narratives have detailed turn-by-turn instructions for traveling in either direction. The number preceding each directive indicates the distance you've come since the beginning of the map panel at the matchline. (The number following in parentheses is the distance in kilometers.) Changes in road names and numbers are marked by stars both in the narrative and on the map panel.     Locator Box: The locator box gives an idea of your progress on the map section. For an overview of the route, the Index Map shows a larger scale version of the route's location.     Matchlines: Matchlines are solid pink lines on each end of the map panel intersecting the route. The narrative leads you from matchline to matchline. Once you "reach" the matchline, turn to the next map panel and begin following its narrative, again proceeding from the near matchline to the far matchline.     Service Symbols: Symbols correspond with the service information on the text side of the map, and tell bicyclists what sort of services they will encounter along the route. These include campgrounds, bike shops, grocery stores, libraries, restaurants, post offices, hostels, motels, bed and breakfasts, and hotels.     Elevation Profiles: Elevation profiles indicate major ascents and descents. On the Lewis & Clark Trail maps (as shown here), the profile is attached to each map panel. On other maps, in the mountainous regions of the country, the profile appears in one continuous panel on the text side of the map. (Not all map sections have elevation profiles.)     North Arrow: The north arrow is not necessarily up as it is on most maps, and it changes orientation from panel to panel. This allows as many miles of the route as possible to be depicted on each map panel.     End Mileages: The mileage to either end of the route section is shown at the border of each map panel.     Annual Events and Points of Interest: For your information, selected museums, points of interest, and events are included, where space allows, on the map panels. Museums have a brief description of their exhibits. Annual events have a brief description and the time of year they occur.         Northern Tier Route    Anacortes, WA, to Bar Harbor, ME - 11 map set (4,316 mi.)         ANACORTES, WASHINGTON, TO FARGO, NORTH DAKOTA   This portion of the Northern Tier begins in Anacortes, Washington, which is located on a peninsula in Puget Sound. Anacortes is also the jumping-off point for folks going to the San Juan Islands, a favorite cycling destination. At the start, the combination of lush forest and ocean feeds and moistens the soul. Heading eastward along the rushing Skagit River, you carry that feeling up to the top of Rainy and Washington passes in the Cascade Mountains. Descending to the east side of the Cascades brings you into the drier part of the state and the widely known orchard country of the Okanogan Valley. Leaving this valley, you'll be climbing and descending several more passes full of ponderosa pines and finding many sleepy farming communities down along the rivers you cross. The river valleys tend to run in a north-south direction across the northwestern part of the United States, and because the route travels west to east, you will be working your way up and down. There are plenty of towns, rivers, lakes, mountains, and forests in eastern Washington, Idaho, and western Montana until you reach Cut Bank, on the eastern slope of the Rocky Mountains.   The spectacular Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park is a hard climb but well worth it for the scenery. The route takes a jump into Canada to access Waterton Lakes National Park, and then you'll head back into the States at Del Bonita, a little-used border crossing. Cut Bank is the beginning of the Great Plains, and from here on you'll start praying for tailwinds. Supposedly, heading eastward, tailwinds predominate in the summer. The route uses U.S. Highway 2, the main road through central and eastern Montana along the railroad, so camping spots can occasionally be somewhat loud. Wherever possible, side roads are used to relieve the monotony of being on the highway. Afternoon thundershowers are a constant companion out on the Plains. You'll follow the Missouri River from Havre, Montana, to New Town, North Dakota, and the plains of Montana eventually transform into the green rolling hills of western North Dakota. Sunflowers are everywhere, and they become the crop of choice as the terrain flattens out in eastern North Dakota. Fargo is located on the banks of the Red River, on the border of North Dakota and Minnesota.   Terrain The route lets you warm up slightly before the major climbing begins. There are four major passes in the first 300 miles, and Sherman Pass is the highest at 5,575 feet. It then becomes rolling, the route following river valleys until you reach Glacier National Park. Logan Pass, on Going-to-the-Sun Road, is the last major climb. There's a series of roller-coaster hills heading into Canada. Once you get about 20 miles east of the Rocky Mountains, it starts to become Big Sky country with moderately hilly plains. The plains roll out through Montana and become hilly in western North Dakota, and then the route flattens out in eastern North Dakota.   Logistics Services are generally good along this route. There is a 71-mile stretch of limited services between Cardston, Alberta, and Cut Bank, Montana. There are also some sporadic spots lacking services in central Montana, but nothing is farther apart than a day's ride. The people of the towns across the plains of Montana and North Dakota are super generous and genuine. Camping in town parks is not uncommon. Another 74-mile stretch of limited services occurs between Williston and New Town, North Dakota. Only a few bike shops exist between Whitefish, Montana, and Fargo, North Dakota, a distance of 1,150 miles.   FARGO, NORTH DAKOTA, TO MUSCATINE, IOWA This portion of the Northern Tier Route can be ridden from late spring to late fall. Due to changing local conditions, it is difficult to predict any major wind patterns, but tornadoes are common in Iowa. They mostly occur in May and June.   Heading east from Fargo and Moorhead in the Red River Valley, you begin to slowly leave the Great Plains. Lakes and hills become the standard scenery, and the resident mosquitos increase in number. The birthplace of the Mississippi River is in Lake Itasca State Park, in northern Minnesota. This area is so full of forests, lakes, and rivers that it draws many recreationalists during the summer months. The route follows the Mississippi River, until it heads east around the cities of Minneapolis, St. Paul, and surrounding towns. There is a spur into Minneapolis-St. Paul that ends with access to the airport. Along the St. Croix and Mississippi rivers, the towns are older and the buildings much more historic. At Prescott, Wisconsin, the St. Croix joins the Mississippi, and the route again follows that river southward for 175 miles. You'll leave the river occasionally on less-traveled roads, but these also mean climbing and descending the bluffs along the river. As you enter Iowa, you may think that the terrain is going to flatten out, but the hills continue after leaving the river. Small laid-back farm towns are abundant through Iowa. The route ends in Muscatine, an old industrial town located on the Mississippi.   Terrain The terrain is continuously rolling over the entire length of this route. Ask any Iowan if Iowa is flat, they will respond with a "No," especially in the northeastern part of the state.   Logistics Services are abundant throughout the route, and the townsfolk are friendly in the Midwest.   MUSCATINE, IOWA, TO BAR HARBOR, MAINE This portion of the Northern Tier can be ridden from early spring to late fall. Due to changing local conditions, it is difficult to predict any major wind patterns. The Midwest and Great Lakes summers can be hot, especially inland. Along the Great Lakes, breezes provide cooling and are sometimes a friend and sometimes a foe.   Beginning at the Mississippi River, the route traverses the large prairie farms of central Illinois and the smaller farms of Indiana and Ohio, eventually reaching the shore of Lake Erie at Huron, Ohio. Here a side trip takes you to nearby Cedar Point Amusement Park, where you can ride the greatest number of the most pulse-raising roller coasters in the country. Or you can take a ferry to one or more of the Lake Erie islands and visit the area where Admiral Perry defeated the British fleet in the War of 1812. Heading through busy Cleveland, you'll pass the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, the Science Center and its IMAX theater, a retired Great Lakes iron ore freighter, and a World War II submarine.   Along the lake shore in eastern Ohio and Pennsylvania, the route passes through small towns, where tourists flock to the shore during summer. In Erie, Pennsylvania, you can explore the miles of sand beach at Presque Isle State Park and the replica of the sailing ship Niagara, Admiral Perry's flagship in the War of 1812 Battle of Lake Erie. Leaving Erie, the route enters the fruit and wine region of Pennsylvania and New York and hugs the relatively rural lake shore to the outskirts of Buffalo, New York. Views across Lake Erie of the Buffalo skyline and Canada usher the cyclist into the bustle of the southern end of the metropolis. The route passes the magnificent Basilica of Our Lady of Victory in Lackawanna, and seeing its magnificent Italian Renaissance and French Baroque architecture is a must. Through the suburbs to the Peace Bridge, ride carefully through the city streets. The route takes you to the lakefront Buffalo Naval and Military Park with World War II vessels open for visits.   After crossing the Peace Bridge into Canada you'll follow one of the most scenic recreational trails in North America along the Niagara River to Niagara Falls. Take the cable car ride across the Whirlpool Rapids and visit the other attractions along the trail. Then you'll cross back into the U.S., enjoying the view of the Niagara Gorge. Heading east, the route uses the Erie Canalway Trail for 85 miles along a waterway dripping with history. Take the time to explore the towns along the canal. At Palmyra, the route turns north to Lake Ontario, where it follows the lake shore to Sodus Bay, dips inland to Fair Haven, and then leaves the Great Lakes to cross the Adirondack Mountains and arrive at Ticonderoga on Lake Champlain. A visit to Fort Ticonderoga will give meaning to Revolutionary War history.   After a short ferry ride over the lake, you are in New England, cycling through Vermont farmland, forested hills, and picturesque villages. In New Hampshire, the route follows the Connecticut River, passing through the villages of Orford with its ridge houses and Haverhill, a classic New England village with its fenced village commons and old homes. The route crosses the White Mountains, the backbone of New Hampshire, on the famous Kancamagus Highway. Mt. Washington, noted for its fierce weather, is just a few miles north, and the Kancamagus shares some of its weather reputation. Be prepared, even in summer. Entering Maine, you'll traverse forests and fields, arriving at Rockport on the coast. Allow time to savor the quintessential ambiance of the coastal towns. Before crossing the Penobscot River, stray off route to visit Ft. Knox, an exceptionally well-preserved unused Revolutionary War fort. Finally, don't end your trip without cycling the gravel carriage paths of Acadia National Park and viewing a sunrise from atop Cadillac Mountain. The park is near the town of Bar Harbor, at the end of the route.   Terrain The first 946 miles of this route (from the Mississippi River to Palmyra, New York) is virtually flat. Illinois has some gently rolling prairie and is treeless except in towns. The trees increase in Indiana. East of Cleveland, Ohio, the route climbs to a low ridge for a few miles and then descends back to the lake shore until Buffalo, New York. From Buffalo to Palmyra, the route experiences only slight elevation changes at the locks along the Erie Canal. The mountains in New York, Vermont, and New Hampshire extend north and south, and the route travels east-west so the remainder of the route has a lot a variety — flat sections along river valleys and several challenging climbs. The Kancamagus Pass at 2,855 feet is the highest point on this portion of the Northern Tier Route.   Logistics Overall most services along this route can be found only in towns. Campgrounds are reasonably plentiful, but there are a few gaps, and advanced planning is needed if you are camping. Some cyclists may want to do the eastern portions of this route during the colors of autumn. If you do, call ahead to verify campgrounds because many close after Labor Day. If staying indoors, make advance reservations.   PLEASE REMEMBER TO CHECK FOR UPDATED ADDENDA BEFORE STARTING A TRIP!       http://www.cyclocamping.com/proddetail.asp?prod=GOTBC-1302 http://www.cyclocamping.com/proddetail.asp?prod=GOTBC-1302 http://www.cyclocamping.com/prodimages/small/GOTBC-1302-1.jpg     Map Features      Adventure Cycling Association developed the best cross-country, loop, coastal and inland cycling routes available, with turn-by-turn directions, detailed navigational instructions for the tricky sections, and elevation profiles in the high country. The maps are also waterproof and sized to fit in a handlebar-bag window or jersey pocket.   ADVENTURE CYCLE MAP INCLUDE:   Service symbols indicating the locations of campgrounds, hostels, motels, gas stations, groceries, restaurants, post offices, and bike shops Narratives with turn-by-turn instructions for traveling in either direction Distances given in miles and kilometers Contour lines providing a general idea of elevation gains and losses Elevation profiles in mountainous regions with major ascents and descents indicated Details about the natural history and cultural heritage along the route A weather chart providing average monthly rainfall and mean temperatures at various points along the route Large-scale detail maps of urban or congested areas Summaries of riding conditions to provide information on road surfaces, traffic volumes, and areas of caution Our Online Addenda, where updates are always available and current These routes are available to you in 300 to 400-mile map sections, so you can plan anything from a weekend trip to a multi-month adventure. Our routes feature the backroads of America where you can experience the communities and rural landscapes that make our country unique. We want you to see a rural America that can't be seen from the freeways. Our generous members and supporters are helping to create and maintain our legacy and gift to the nation -- the Adventure Cycling Route Network.     THE FINER DETAILS OF ADVENTURE CYCLING MAPS   Adventure Cycling Association maps are divided in a dozen 40-60 miles sections (1/2 a day to 1 day biking), this is an example of one of those section:     Bi-directional Narratives: Narratives have detailed turn-by-turn instructions for traveling in either direction. The number preceding each directive indicates the distance you've come since the beginning of the map panel at the matchline. (The number following in parentheses is the distance in kilometers.) Changes in road names and numbers are marked by stars both in the narrative and on the map panel.     Locator Box: The locator box gives an idea of your progress on the map section. For an overview of the route, the Index Map shows a larger scale version of the route's location.     Matchlines: Matchlines are solid pink lines on each end of the map panel intersecting the route. The narrative leads you from matchline to matchline. Once you "reach" the matchline, turn to the next map panel and begin following its narrative, again proceeding from the near matchline to the far matchline.     Service Symbols: Symbols correspond with the service information on the text side of the map, and tell bicyclists what sort of services they will encounter along the route. These include campgrounds, bike shops, grocery stores, libraries, restaurants, post offices, hostels, motels, bed and breakfasts, and hotels.     Elevation Profiles: Elevation profiles indicate major ascents and descents. On the Lewis & Clark Trail maps (as shown here), the profile is attached to each map panel. On other maps, in the mountainous regions of the country, the profile appears in one continuous panel on the text side of the map. (Not all map sections have elevation profiles.)     North Arrow: The north arrow is not necessarily up as it is on most maps, and it changes orientation from panel to panel. This allows as many miles of the route as possible to be depicted on each map panel.     End Mileages: The mileage to either end of the route section is shown at the border of each map panel.     Annual Events and Points of Interest: For your information, selected museums, points of interest, and events are included, where space allows, on the map panels. Museums have a brief description of their exhibits. Annual events have a brief description and the time of year they occur.         Northern Tier Route    Anacortes, WA, to Bar Harbor, ME - 11 map set (4,316 mi.)         ANACORTES, WASHINGTON, TO FARGO, NORTH DAKOTA   This portion of the Northern Tier begins in Anacortes, Washington, which is located on a peninsula in Puget Sound. Anacortes is also the jumping-off point for folks going to the San Juan Islands, a favorite cycling destination. At the start, the combination of lush forest and ocean feeds and moistens the soul. Heading eastward along the rushing Skagit River, you carry that feeling up to the top of Rainy and Washington passes in the Cascade Mountains. Descending to the east side of the Cascades brings you into the drier part of the state and the widely known orchard country of the Okanogan Valley. Leaving this valley, you'll be climbing and descending several more passes full of ponderosa pines and finding many sleepy farming communities down along the rivers you cross. The river valleys tend to run in a north-south direction across the northwestern part of the United States, and because the route travels west to east, you will be working your way up and down. There are plenty of towns, rivers, lakes, mountains, and forests in eastern Washington, Idaho, and western Montana until you reach Cut Bank, on the eastern slope of the Rocky Mountains.   The spectacular Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park is a hard climb but well worth it for the scenery. The route takes a jump into Canada to access Waterton Lakes National Park, and then you'll head back into the States at Del Bonita, a little-used border crossing. Cut Bank is the beginning of the Great Plains, and from here on you'll start praying for tailwinds. Supposedly, heading eastward, tailwinds predominate in the summer. The route uses U.S. Highway 2, the main road through central and eastern Montana along the railroad, so camping spots can occasionally be somewhat loud. Wherever possible, side roads are used to relieve the monotony of being on the highway. Afternoon thundershowers are a constant companion out on the Plains. You'll follow the Missouri River from Havre, Montana, to New Town, North Dakota, and the plains of Montana eventually transform into the green rolling hills of western North Dakota. Sunflowers are everywhere, and they become the crop of choice as the terrain flattens out in eastern North Dakota. Fargo is located on the banks of the Red River, on the border of North Dakota and Minnesota.   Terrain The route lets you warm up slightly before the major climbing begins. There are four major passes in the first 300 miles, and Sherman Pass is the highest at 5,575 feet. It then becomes rolling, the route following river valleys until you reach Glacier National Park. Logan Pass, on Going-to-the-Sun Road, is the last major climb. There's a series of roller-coaster hills heading into Canada. Once you get about 20 miles east of the Rocky Mountains, it starts to become Big Sky country with moderately hilly plains. The plains roll out through Montana and become hilly in western North Dakota, and then the route flattens out in eastern North Dakota.   Logistics Services are generally good along this route. There is a 71-mile stretch of limited services between Cardston, Alberta, and Cut Bank, Montana. There are also some sporadic spots lacking services in central Montana, but nothing is farther apart than a day's ride. The people of the towns across the plains of Montana and North Dakota are super generous and genuine. Camping in town parks is not uncommon. Another 74-mile stretch of limited services occurs between Williston and New Town, North Dakota. Only a few bike shops exist between Whitefish, Montana, and Fargo, North Dakota, a distance of 1,150 miles.   FARGO, NORTH DAKOTA, TO MUSCATINE, IOWA This portion of the Northern Tier Route can be ridden from late spring to late fall. Due to changing local conditions, it is difficult to predict any major wind patterns, but tornadoes are common in Iowa. They mostly occur in May and June.   Heading east from Fargo and Moorhead in the Red River Valley, you begin to slowly leave the Great Plains. Lakes and hills become the standard scenery, and the resident mosquitos increase in number. The birthplace of the Mississippi River is in Lake Itasca State Park, in northern Minnesota. This area is so full of forests, lakes, and rivers that it draws many recreationalists during the summer months. The route follows the Mississippi River, until it heads east around the cities of Minneapolis, St. Paul, and surrounding towns. There is a spur into Minneapolis-St. Paul that ends with access to the airport. Along the St. Croix and Mississippi rivers, the towns are older and the buildings much more historic. At Prescott, Wisconsin, the St. Croix joins the Mississippi, and the route again follows that river southward for 175 miles. You'll leave the river occasionally on less-traveled roads, but these also mean climbing and descending the bluffs along the river. As you enter Iowa, you may think that the terrain is going to flatten out, but the hills continue after leaving the river. Small laid-back farm towns are abundant through Iowa. The route ends in Muscatine, an old industrial town located on the Mississippi.   Terrain The terrain is continuously rolling over the entire length of this route. Ask any Iowan if Iowa is flat, they will respond with a "No," especially in the northeastern part of the state.   Logistics Services are abundant throughout the route, and the townsfolk are friendly in the Midwest.   MUSCATINE, IOWA, TO BAR HARBOR, MAINE This portion of the Northern Tier can be ridden from early spring to late fall. Due to changing local conditions, it is difficult to predict any major wind patterns. The Midwest and Great Lakes summers can be hot, especially inland. Along the Great Lakes, breezes provide cooling and are sometimes a friend and sometimes a foe.   Beginning at the Mississippi River, the route traverses the large prairie farms of central Illinois and the smaller farms of Indiana and Ohio, eventually reaching the shore of Lake Erie at Huron, Ohio. Here a side trip takes you to nearby Cedar Point Amusement Park, where you can ride the greatest number of the most pulse-raising roller coasters in the country. Or you can take a ferry to one or more of the Lake Erie islands and visit the area where Admiral Perry defeated the British fleet in the War of 1812. Heading through busy Cleveland, you'll pass the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, the Science Center and its IMAX theater, a retired Great Lakes iron ore freighter, and a World War II submarine.   Along the lake shore in eastern Ohio and Pennsylvania, the route passes through small towns, where tourists flock to the shore during summer. In Erie, Pennsylvania, you can explore the miles of sand beach at Presque Isle State Park and the replica of the sailing ship Niagara, Admiral Perry's flagship in the War of 1812 Battle of Lake Erie. Leaving Erie, the route enters the fruit and wine region of Pennsylvania and New York and hugs the relatively rural lake shore to the outskirts of Buffalo, New York. Views across Lake Erie of the Buffalo skyline and Canada usher the cyclist into the bustle of the southern end of the metropolis. The route passes the magnificent Basilica of Our Lady of Victory in Lackawanna, and seeing its magnificent Italian Renaissance and French Baroque architecture is a must. Through the suburbs to the Peace Bridge, ride carefully through the city streets. The route takes you to the lakefront Buffalo Naval and Military Park with World War II vessels open for visits.   After crossing the Peace Bridge into Canada you'll follow one of the most scenic recreational trails in North America along the Niagara River to Niagara Falls. Take the cable car ride across the Whirlpool Rapids and visit the other attractions along the trail. Then you'll cross back into the U.S., enjoying the view of the Niagara Gorge. Heading east, the route uses the Erie Canalway Trail for 85 miles along a waterway dripping with history. Take the time to explore the towns along the canal. At Palmyra, the route turns north to Lake Ontario, where it follows the lake shore to Sodus Bay, dips inland to Fair Haven, and then leaves the Great Lakes to cross the Adirondack Mountains and arrive at Ticonderoga on Lake Champlain. A visit to Fort Ticonderoga will give meaning to Revolutionary War history.   After a short ferry ride over the lake, you are in New England, cycling through Vermont farmland, forested hills, and picturesque villages. In New Hampshire, the route follows the Connecticut River, passing through the villages of Orford with its ridge houses and Haverhill, a classic New England village with its fenced village commons and old homes. The route crosses the White Mountains, the backbone of New Hampshire, on the famous Kancamagus Highway. Mt. Washington, noted for its fierce weather, is just a few miles north, and the Kancamagus shares some of its weather reputation. Be prepared, even in summer. Entering Maine, you'll traverse forests and fields, arriving at Rockport on the coast. Allow time to savor the quintessential ambiance of the coastal towns. Before crossing the Penobscot River, stray off route to visit Ft. Knox, an exceptionally well-preserved unused Revolutionary War fort. Finally, don't end your trip without cycling the gravel carriage paths of Acadia National Park and viewing a sunrise from atop Cadillac Mountain. The park is near the town of Bar Harbor, at the end of the route.   Terrain The first 946 miles of this route (from the Mississippi River to Palmyra, New York) is virtually flat. Illinois has some gently rolling prairie and is treeless except in towns. The trees increase in Indiana. East of Cleveland, Ohio, the route climbs to a low ridge for a few miles and then descends back to the lake shore until Buffalo, New York. From Buffalo to Palmyra, the route experiences only slight elevation changes at the locks along the Erie Canal. The mountains in New York, Vermont, and New Hampshire extend north and south, and the route travels east-west so the remainder of the route has a lot a variety — flat sections along river valleys and several challenging climbs. The Kancamagus Pass at 2,855 feet is the highest point on this portion of the Northern Tier Route.   Logistics Overall most services along this route can be found only in towns. Campgrounds are reasonably plentiful, but there are a few gaps, and advanced planning is needed if you are camping. Some cyclists may want to do the eastern portions of this route during the colors of autumn. If you do, call ahead to verify campgrounds because many close after Labor Day. If staying indoors, make advance reservations.   PLEASE REMEMBER TO CHECK FOR UPDATED ADDENDA BEFORE STARTING A TRIP!       http://www.cyclocamping.com/proddetail.asp?prod=GOTBC-1303 http://www.cyclocamping.com/proddetail.asp?prod=GOTBC-1303 http://www.cyclocamping.com/prodimages/small/GOTBC-1303-1.jpg     Map Features      Adventure Cycling Association developed the best cross-country, loop, coastal and inland cycling routes available, with turn-by-turn directions, detailed navigational instructions for the tricky sections, and elevation profiles in the high country. The maps are also waterproof and sized to fit in a handlebar-bag window or jersey pocket.   ADVENTURE CYCLE MAP INCLUDE:   Service symbols indicating the locations of campgrounds, hostels, motels, gas stations, groceries, restaurants, post offices, and bike shops Narratives with turn-by-turn instructions for traveling in either direction Distances given in miles and kilometers Contour lines providing a general idea of elevation gains and losses Elevation profiles in mountainous regions with major ascents and descents indicated Details about the natural history and cultural heritage along the route A weather chart providing average monthly rainfall and mean temperatures at various points along the route Large-scale detail maps of urban or congested areas Summaries of riding conditions to provide information on road surfaces, traffic volumes, and areas of caution Our Online Addenda, where updates are always available and current These routes are available to you in 300 to 400-mile map sections, so you can plan anything from a weekend trip to a multi-month adventure. Our routes feature the backroads of America where you can experience the communities and rural landscapes that make our country unique. We want you to see a rural America that can't be seen from the freeways. Our generous members and supporters are helping to create and maintain our legacy and gift to the nation -- the Adventure Cycling Route Network.     THE FINER DETAILS OF ADVENTURE CYCLING MAPS   Adventure Cycling Association maps are divided in a dozen 40-60 miles sections (1/2 a day to 1 day biking), this is an example of one of those section:     Bi-directional Narratives: Narratives have detailed turn-by-turn instructions for traveling in either direction. The number preceding each directive indicates the distance you've come since the beginning of the map panel at the matchline. (The number following in parentheses is the distance in kilometers.) Changes in road names and numbers are marked by stars both in the narrative and on the map panel.     Locator Box: The locator box gives an idea of your progress on the map section. For an overview of the route, the Index Map shows a larger scale version of the route's location.     Matchlines: Matchlines are solid pink lines on each end of the map panel intersecting the route. The narrative leads you from matchline to matchline. Once you "reach" the matchline, turn to the next map panel and begin following its narrative, again proceeding from the near matchline to the far matchline.     Service Symbols: Symbols correspond with the service information on the text side of the map, and tell bicyclists what sort of services they will encounter along the route. These include campgrounds, bike shops, grocery stores, libraries, restaurants, post offices, hostels, motels, bed and breakfasts, and hotels.     Elevation Profiles: Elevation profiles indicate major ascents and descents. On the Lewis & Clark Trail maps (as shown here), the profile is attached to each map panel. On other maps, in the mountainous regions of the country, the profile appears in one continuous panel on the text side of the map. (Not all map sections have elevation profiles.)     North Arrow: The north arrow is not necessarily up as it is on most maps, and it changes orientation from panel to panel. This allows as many miles of the route as possible to be depicted on each map panel.     End Mileages: The mileage to either end of the route section is shown at the border of each map panel.     Annual Events and Points of Interest: For your information, selected museums, points of interest, and events are included, where space allows, on the map panels. Museums have a brief description of their exhibits. Annual events have a brief description and the time of year they occur.         Northern Tier Route    Anacortes, WA, to Bar Harbor, ME - 11 map set (4,316 mi.)         ANACORTES, WASHINGTON, TO FARGO, NORTH DAKOTA   This portion of the Northern Tier begins in Anacortes, Washington, which is located on a peninsula in Puget Sound. Anacortes is also the jumping-off point for folks going to the San Juan Islands, a favorite cycling destination. At the start, the combination of lush forest and ocean feeds and moistens the soul. Heading eastward along the rushing Skagit River, you carry that feeling up to the top of Rainy and Washington passes in the Cascade Mountains. Descending to the east side of the Cascades brings you into the drier part of the state and the widely known orchard country of the Okanogan Valley. Leaving this valley, you'll be climbing and descending several more passes full of ponderosa pines and finding many sleepy farming communities down along the rivers you cross. The river valleys tend to run in a north-south direction across the northwestern part of the United States, and because the route travels west to east, you will be working your way up and down. There are plenty of towns, rivers, lakes, mountains, and forests in eastern Washington, Idaho, and western Montana until you reach Cut Bank, on the eastern slope of the Rocky Mountains.   The spectacular Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park is a hard climb but well worth it for the scenery. The route takes a jump into Canada to access Waterton Lakes National Park, and then you'll head back into the States at Del Bonita, a little-used border crossing. Cut Bank is the beginning of the Great Plains, and from here on you'll start praying for tailwinds. Supposedly, heading eastward, tailwinds predominate in the summer. The route uses U.S. Highway 2, the main road through central and eastern Montana along the railroad, so camping spots can occasionally be somewhat loud. Wherever possible, side roads are used to relieve the monotony of being on the highway. Afternoon thundershowers are a constant companion out on the Plains. You'll follow the Missouri River from Havre, Montana, to New Town, North Dakota, and the plains of Montana eventually transform into the green rolling hills of western North Dakota. Sunflowers are everywhere, and they become the crop of choice as the terrain flattens out in eastern North Dakota. Fargo is located on the banks of the Red River, on the border of North Dakota and Minnesota.   Terrain The route lets you warm up slightly before the major climbing begins. There are four major passes in the first 300 miles, and Sherman Pass is the highest at 5,575 feet. It then becomes rolling, the route following river valleys until you reach Glacier National Park. Logan Pass, on Going-to-the-Sun Road, is the last major climb. There's a series of roller-coaster hills heading into Canada. Once you get about 20 miles east of the Rocky Mountains, it starts to become Big Sky country with moderately hilly plains. The plains roll out through Montana and become hilly in western North Dakota, and then the route flattens out in eastern North Dakota.   Logistics Services are generally good along this route. There is a 71-mile stretch of limited services between Cardston, Alberta, and Cut Bank, Montana. There are also some sporadic spots lacking services in central Montana, but nothing is farther apart than a day's ride. The people of the towns across the plains of Montana and North Dakota are super generous and genuine. Camping in town parks is not uncommon. Another 74-mile stretch of limited services occurs between Williston and New Town, North Dakota. Only a few bike shops exist between Whitefish, Montana, and Fargo, North Dakota, a distance of 1,150 miles.   FARGO, NORTH DAKOTA, TO MUSCATINE, IOWA This portion of the Northern Tier Route can be ridden from late spring to late fall. Due to changing local conditions, it is difficult to predict any major wind patterns, but tornadoes are common in Iowa. They mostly occur in May and June.   Heading east from Fargo and Moorhead in the Red River Valley, you begin to slowly leave the Great Plains. Lakes and hills become the standard scenery, and the resident mosquitos increase in number. The birthplace of the Mississippi River is in Lake Itasca State Park, in northern Minnesota. This area is so full of forests, lakes, and rivers that it draws many recreationalists during the summer months. The route follows the Mississippi River, until it heads east around the cities of Minneapolis, St. Paul, and surrounding towns. There is a spur into Minneapolis-St. Paul that ends with access to the airport. Along the St. Croix and Mississippi rivers, the towns are older and the buildings much more historic. At Prescott, Wisconsin, the St. Croix joins the Mississippi, and the route again follows that river southward for 175 miles. You'll leave the river occasionally on less-traveled roads, but these also mean climbing and descending the bluffs along the river. As you enter Iowa, you may think that the terrain is going to flatten out, but the hills continue after leaving the river. Small laid-back farm towns are abundant through Iowa. The route ends in Muscatine, an old industrial town located on the Mississippi.   Terrain The terrain is continuously rolling over the entire length of this route. Ask any Iowan if Iowa is flat, they will respond with a "No," especially in the northeastern part of the state.   Logistics Services are abundant throughout the route, and the townsfolk are friendly in the Midwest.   MUSCATINE, IOWA, TO BAR HARBOR, MAINE This portion of the Northern Tier can be ridden from early spring to late fall. Due to changing local conditions, it is difficult to predict any major wind patterns. The Midwest and Great Lakes summers can be hot, especially inland. Along the Great Lakes, breezes provide cooling and are sometimes a friend and sometimes a foe.   Beginning at the Mississippi River, the route traverses the large prairie farms of central Illinois and the smaller farms of Indiana and Ohio, eventually reaching the shore of Lake Erie at Huron, Ohio. Here a side trip takes you to nearby Cedar Point Amusement Park, where you can ride the greatest number of the most pulse-raising roller coasters in the country. Or you can take a ferry to one or more of the Lake Erie islands and visit the area where Admiral Perry defeated the British fleet in the War of 1812. Heading through busy Cleveland, you'll pass the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, the Science Center and its IMAX theater, a retired Great Lakes iron ore freighter, and a World War II submarine.   Along the lake shore in eastern Ohio and Pennsylvania, the route passes through small towns, where tourists flock to the shore during summer. In Erie, Pennsylvania, you can explore the miles of sand beach at Presque Isle State Park and the replica of the sailing ship Niagara, Admiral Perry's flagship in the War of 1812 Battle of Lake Erie. Leaving Erie, the route enters the fruit and wine region of Pennsylvania and New York and hugs the relatively rural lake shore to the outskirts of Buffalo, New York. Views across Lake Erie of the Buffalo skyline and Canada usher the cyclist into the bustle of the southern end of the metropolis. The route passes the magnificent Basilica of Our Lady of Victory in Lackawanna, and seeing its magnificent Italian Renaissance and French Baroque architecture is a must. Through the suburbs to the Peace Bridge, ride carefully through the city streets. The route takes you to the lakefront Buffalo Naval and Military Park with World War II vessels open for visits.   After crossing the Peace Bridge into Canada you'll follow one of the most scenic recreational trails in North America along the Niagara River to Niagara Falls. Take the cable car ride across the Whirlpool Rapids and visit the other attractions along the trail. Then you'll cross back into the U.S., enjoying the view of the Niagara Gorge. Heading east, the route uses the Erie Canalway Trail for 85 miles along a waterway dripping with history. Take the time to explore the towns along the canal. At Palmyra, the route turns north to Lake Ontario, where it follows the lake shore to Sodus Bay, dips inland to Fair Haven, and then leaves the Great Lakes to cross the Adirondack Mountains and arrive at Ticonderoga on Lake Champlain. A visit to Fort Ticonderoga will give meaning to Revolutionary War history.   After a short ferry ride over the lake, you are in New England, cycling through Vermont farmland, forested hills, and picturesque villages. In New Hampshire, the route follows the Connecticut River, passing through the villages of Orford with its ridge houses and Haverhill, a classic New England village with its fenced village commons and old homes. The route crosses the White Mountains, the backbone of New Hampshire, on the famous Kancamagus Highway. Mt. Washington, noted for its fierce weather, is just a few miles north, and the Kancamagus shares some of its weather reputation. Be prepared, even in summer. Entering Maine, you'll traverse forests and fields, arriving at Rockport on the coast. Allow time to savor the quintessential ambiance of the coastal towns. Before crossing the Penobscot River, stray off route to visit Ft. Knox, an exceptionally well-preserved unused Revolutionary War fort. Finally, don't end your trip without cycling the gravel carriage paths of Acadia National Park and viewing a sunrise from atop Cadillac Mountain. The park is near the town of Bar Harbor, at the end of the route.   Terrain The first 946 miles of this route (from the Mississippi River to Palmyra, New York) is virtually flat. Illinois has some gently rolling prairie and is treeless except in towns. The trees increase in Indiana. East of Cleveland, Ohio, the route climbs to a low ridge for a few miles and then descends back to the lake shore until Buffalo, New York. From Buffalo to Palmyra, the route experiences only slight elevation changes at the locks along the Erie Canal. The mountains in New York, Vermont, and New Hampshire extend north and south, and the route travels east-west so the remainder of the route has a lot a variety — flat sections along river valleys and several challenging climbs. The Kancamagus Pass at 2,855 feet is the highest point on this portion of the Northern Tier Route.   Logistics Overall most services along this route can be found only in towns. Campgrounds are reasonably plentiful, but there are a few gaps, and advanced planning is needed if you are camping. Some cyclists may want to do the eastern portions of this route during the colors of autumn. If you do, call ahead to verify campgrounds because many close after Labor Day. If staying indoors, make advance reservations.   PLEASE REMEMBER TO CHECK FOR UPDATED ADDENDA BEFORE STARTING A TRIP!       http://www.cyclocamping.com/proddetail.asp?prod=GOTBC-1101 http://www.cyclocamping.com/proddetail.asp?prod=GOTBC-1101 http://www.cyclocamping.com/prodimages/small/GOTBC-1101-1.jpg     Map Features      Adventure Cycling Association developed the best cross-country, loop, coastal and inland cycling routes available, with turn-by-turn directions, detailed navigational instructions for the tricky sections, and elevation profiles in the high country. The maps are also waterproof and sized to fit in a handlebar-bag window or jersey pocket.   ADVENTURE CYCLE MAP INCLUDE:   Service symbols indicating the locations of campgrounds, hostels, motels, gas stations, groceries, restaurants, post offices, and bike shops Narratives with turn-by-turn instructions for traveling in either direction Distances given in miles and kilometers Contour lines providing a general idea of elevation gains and losses Elevation profiles in mountainous regions with major ascents and descents indicated Details about the natural history and cultural heritage along the route A weather chart providing average monthly rainfall and mean temperatures at various points along the route Large-scale detail maps of urban or congested areas Summaries of riding conditions to provide information on road surfaces, traffic volumes, and areas of caution Our Online Addenda, where updates are always available and current These routes are available to you in 300 to 400-mile map sections, so you can plan anything from a weekend trip to a multi-month adventure. Our routes feature the backroads of America where you can experience the communities and rural landscapes that make our country unique. We want you to see a rural America that can't be seen from the freeways. Our generous members and supporters are helping to create and maintain our legacy and gift to the nation -- the Adventure Cycling Route Network.     THE FINER DETAILS OF ADVENTURE CYCLING MAPS   Adventure Cycling Association maps are divided in a dozen 40-60 miles sections (1/2 a day to 1 day biking), this is an example of one of those section:     Bi-directional Narratives: Narratives have detailed turn-by-turn instructions for traveling in either direction. The number preceding each directive indicates the distance you've come since the beginning of the map panel at the matchline. (The number following in parentheses is the distance in kilometers.) Changes in road names and numbers are marked by stars both in the narrative and on the map panel.     Locator Box: The locator box gives an idea of your progress on the map section. For an overview of the route, the Index Map shows a larger scale version of the route's location.     Matchlines: Matchlines are solid pink lines on each end of the map panel intersecting the route. The narrative leads you from matchline to matchline. Once you "reach" the matchline, turn to the next map panel and begin following its narrative, again proceeding from the near matchline to the far matchline.     Service Symbols: Symbols correspond with the service information on the text side of the map, and tell bicyclists what sort of services they will encounter along the route. These include campgrounds, bike shops, grocery stores, libraries, restaurants, post offices, hostels, motels, bed and breakfasts, and hotels.     Elevation Profiles: Elevation profiles indicate major ascents and descents. On the Lewis & Clark Trail maps (as shown here), the profile is attached to each map panel. On other maps, in the mountainous regions of the country, the profile appears in one continuous panel on the text side of the map. (Not all map sections have elevation profiles.)     North Arrow: The north arrow is not necessarily up as it is on most maps, and it changes orientation from panel to panel. This allows as many miles of the route as possible to be depicted on each map panel.     End Mileages: The mileage to either end of the route section is shown at the border of each map panel.     Annual Events and Points of Interest: For your information, selected museums, points of interest, and events are included, where space allows, on the map panels. Museums have a brief description of their exhibits. Annual events have a brief description and the time of year they occur.         Northern Tier Route    Anacortes, WA, to Bar Harbor, ME - 11 map set (4,316 mi.)         ANACORTES, WASHINGTON, TO FARGO, NORTH DAKOTA   This portion of the Northern Tier begins in Anacortes, Washington, which is located on a peninsula in Puget Sound. Anacortes is also the jumping-off point for folks going to the San Juan Islands, a favorite cycling destination. At the start, the combination of lush forest and ocean feeds and moistens the soul. Heading eastward along the rushing Skagit River, you carry that feeling up to the top of Rainy and Washington passes in the Cascade Mountains. Descending to the east side of the Cascades brings you into the drier part of the state and the widely known orchard country of the Okanogan Valley. Leaving this valley, you'll be climbing and descending several more passes full of ponderosa pines and finding many sleepy farming communities down along the rivers you cross. The river valleys tend to run in a north-south direction across the northwestern part of the United States, and because the route travels west to east, you will be working your way up and down. There are plenty of towns, rivers, lakes, mountains, and forests in eastern Washington, Idaho, and western Montana until you reach Cut Bank, on the eastern slope of the Rocky Mountains.   The spectacular Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park is a hard climb but well worth it for the scenery. The route takes a jump into Canada to access Waterton Lakes National Park, and then you'll head back into the States at Del Bonita, a little-used border crossing. Cut Bank is the beginning of the Great Plains, and from here on you'll start praying for tailwinds. Supposedly, heading eastward, tailwinds predominate in the summer. The route uses U.S. Highway 2, the main road through central and eastern Montana along the railroad, so camping spots can occasionally be somewhat loud. Wherever possible, side roads are used to relieve the monotony of being on the highway. Afternoon thundershowers are a constant companion out on the Plains. You'll follow the Missouri River from Havre, Montana, to New Town, North Dakota, and the plains of Montana eventually transform into the green rolling hills of western North Dakota. Sunflowers are everywhere, and they become the crop of choice as the terrain flattens out in eastern North Dakota. Fargo is located on the banks of the Red River, on the border of North Dakota and Minnesota.   Terrain The route lets you warm up slightly before the major climbing begins. There are four major passes in the first 300 miles, and Sherman Pass is the highest at 5,575 feet. It then becomes rolling, the route following river valleys until you reach Glacier National Park. Logan Pass, on Going-to-the-Sun Road, is the last major climb. There's a series of roller-coaster hills heading into Canada. Once you get about 20 miles east of the Rocky Mountains, it starts to become Big Sky country with moderately hilly plains. The plains roll out through Montana and become hilly in western North Dakota, and then the route flattens out in eastern North Dakota.   Logistics Services are generally good along this route. There is a 71-mile stretch of limited services between Cardston, Alberta, and Cut Bank, Montana. There are also some sporadic spots lacking services in central Montana, but nothing is farther apart than a day's ride. The people of the towns across the plains of Montana and North Dakota are super generous and genuine. Camping in town parks is not uncommon. Another 74-mile stretch of limited services occurs between Williston and New Town, North Dakota. Only a few bike shops exist between Whitefish, Montana, and Fargo, North Dakota, a distance of 1,150 miles.   FARGO, NORTH DAKOTA, TO MUSCATINE, IOWA This portion of the Northern Tier Route can be ridden from late spring to late fall. Due to changing local conditions, it is difficult to predict any major wind patterns, but tornadoes are common in Iowa. They mostly occur in May and June.   Heading east from Fargo and Moorhead in the Red River Valley, you begin to slowly leave the Great Plains. Lakes and hills become the standard scenery, and the resident mosquitos increase in number. The birthplace of the Mississippi River is in Lake Itasca State Park, in northern Minnesota. This area is so full of forests, lakes, and rivers that it draws many recreationalists during the summer months. The route follows the Mississippi River, until it heads east around the cities of Minneapolis, St. Paul, and surrounding towns. There is a spur into Minneapolis-St. Paul that ends with access to the airport. Along the St. Croix and Mississippi rivers, the towns are older and the buildings much more historic. At Prescott, Wisconsin, the St. Croix joins the Mississippi, and the route again follows that river southward for 175 miles. You'll leave the river occasionally on less-traveled roads, but these also mean climbing and descending the bluffs along the river. As you enter Iowa, you may think that the terrain is going to flatten out, but the hills continue after leaving the river. Small laid-back farm towns are abundant through Iowa. The route ends in Muscatine, an old industrial town located on the Mississippi.   Terrain The terrain is continuously rolling over the entire length of this route. Ask any Iowan if Iowa is flat, they will respond with a "No," especially in the northeastern part of the state.   Logistics Services are abundant throughout the route, and the townsfolk are friendly in the Midwest.   MUSCATINE, IOWA, TO BAR HARBOR, MAINE This portion of the Northern Tier can be ridden from early spring to late fall. Due to changing local conditions, it is difficult to predict any major wind patterns. The Midwest and Great Lakes summers can be hot, especially inland. Along the Great Lakes, breezes provide cooling and are sometimes a friend and sometimes a foe.   Beginning at the Mississippi River, the route traverses the large prairie farms of central Illinois and the smaller farms of Indiana and Ohio, eventually reaching the shore of Lake Erie at Huron, Ohio. Here a side trip takes you to nearby Cedar Point Amusement Park, where you can ride the greatest number of the most pulse-raising roller coasters in the country. Or you can take a ferry to one or more of the Lake Erie islands and visit the area where Admiral Perry defeated the British fleet in the War of 1812. Heading through busy Cleveland, you'll pass the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, the Science Center and its IMAX theater, a retired Great Lakes iron ore freighter, and a World War II submarine.   Along the lake shore in eastern Ohio and Pennsylvania, the route passes through small towns, where tourists flock to the shore during summer. In Erie, Pennsylvania, you can explore the miles of sand beach at Presque Isle State Park and the replica of the sailing ship Niagara, Admiral Perry's flagship in the War of 1812 Battle of Lake Erie. Leaving Erie, the route enters the fruit and wine region of Pennsylvania and New York and hugs the relatively rural lake shore to the outskirts of Buffalo, New York. Views across Lake Erie of the Buffalo skyline and Canada usher the cyclist into the bustle of the southern end of the metropolis. The route passes the magnificent Basilica of Our Lady of Victory in Lackawanna, and seeing its magnificent Italian Renaissance and French Baroque architecture is a must. Through the suburbs to the Peace Bridge, ride carefully through the city streets. The route takes you to the lakefront Buffalo Naval and Military Park with World War II vessels open for visits.   After crossing the Peace Bridge into Canada you'll follow one of the most scenic recreational trails in North America along the Niagara River to Niagara Falls. Take the cable car ride across the Whirlpool Rapids and visit the other attractions along the trail. Then you'll cross back into the U.S., enjoying the view of the Niagara Gorge. Heading east, the route uses the Erie Canalway Trail for 85 miles along a waterway dripping with history. Take the time to explore the towns along the canal. At Palmyra, the route turns north to Lake Ontario, where it follows the lake shore to Sodus Bay, dips inland to Fair Haven, and then leaves the Great Lakes to cross the Adirondack Mountains and arrive at Ticonderoga on Lake Champlain. A visit to Fort Ticonderoga will give meaning to Revolutionary War history.   After a short ferry ride over the lake, you are in New England, cycling through Vermont farmland, forested hills, and picturesque villages. In New Hampshire, the route follows the Connecticut River, passing through the villages of Orford with its ridge houses and Haverhill, a classic New England village with its fenced village commons and old homes. The route crosses the White Mountains, the backbone of New Hampshire, on the famous Kancamagus Highway. Mt. Washington, noted for its fierce weather, is just a few miles north, and the Kancamagus shares some of its weather reputation. Be prepared, even in summer. Entering Maine, you'll traverse forests and fields, arriving at Rockport on the coast. Allow time to savor the quintessential ambiance of the coastal towns. Before crossing the Penobscot River, stray off route to visit Ft. Knox, an exceptionally well-preserved unused Revolutionary War fort. Finally, don't end your trip without cycling the gravel carriage paths of Acadia National Park and viewing a sunrise from atop Cadillac Mountain. The park is near the town of Bar Harbor, at the end of the route.   Terrain The first 946 miles of this route (from the Mississippi River to Palmyra, New York) is virtually flat. Illinois has some gently rolling prairie and is treeless except in towns. The trees increase in Indiana. East of Cleveland, Ohio, the route climbs to a low ridge for a few miles and then descends back to the lake shore until Buffalo, New York. From Buffalo to Palmyra, the route experiences only slight elevation changes at the locks along the Erie Canal. The mountains in New York, Vermont, and New Hampshire extend north and south, and the route travels east-west so the remainder of the route has a lot a variety — flat sections along river valleys and several challenging climbs. The Kancamagus Pass at 2,855 feet is the highest point on this portion of the Northern Tier Route.   Logistics Overall most services along this route can be found only in towns. Campgrounds are reasonably plentiful, but there are a few gaps, and advanced planning is needed if you are camping. Some cyclists may want to do the eastern portions of this route during the colors of autumn. If you do, call ahead to verify campgrounds because many close after Labor Day. If staying indoors, make advance reservations.   PLEASE REMEMBER TO CHECK FOR UPDATED ADDENDA BEFORE STARTING A TRIP!       http://www.cyclocamping.com/proddetail.asp?prod=GOTBC-1102 http://www.cyclocamping.com/proddetail.asp?prod=GOTBC-1102 http://www.cyclocamping.com/prodimages/small/GOTBC-1102-1.jpg     Map Features      Adventure Cycling Association developed the best cross-country, loop, coastal and inland cycling routes available, with turn-by-turn directions, detailed navigational instructions for the tricky sections, and elevation profiles in the high country. The maps are also waterproof and sized to fit in a handlebar-bag window or jersey pocket.   ADVENTURE CYCLE MAP INCLUDE:   Service symbols indicating the locations of campgrounds, hostels, motels, gas stations, groceries, restaurants, post offices, and bike shops Narratives with turn-by-turn instructions for traveling in either direction Distances given in miles and kilometers Contour lines providing a general idea of elevation gains and losses Elevation profiles in mountainous regions with major ascents and descents indicated Details about the natural history and cultural heritage along the route A weather chart providing average monthly rainfall and mean temperatures at various points along the route Large-scale detail maps of urban or congested areas Summaries of riding conditions to provide information on road surfaces, traffic volumes, and areas of caution Our Online Addenda, where updates are always available and current These routes are available to you in 300 to 400-mile map sections, so you can plan anything from a weekend trip to a multi-month adventure. Our routes feature the backroads of America where you can experience the communities and rural landscapes that make our country unique. We want you to see a rural America that can't be seen from the freeways. Our generous members and supporters are helping to create and maintain our legacy and gift to the nation -- the Adventure Cycling Route Network.     THE FINER DETAILS OF ADVENTURE CYCLING MAPS   Adventure Cycling Association maps are divided in a dozen 40-60 miles sections (1/2 a day to 1 day biking), this is an example of one of those section:     Bi-directional Narratives: Narratives have detailed turn-by-turn instructions for traveling in either direction. The number preceding each directive indicates the distance you've come since the beginning of the map panel at the matchline. (The number following in parentheses is the distance in kilometers.) Changes in road names and numbers are marked by stars both in the narrative and on the map panel.     Locator Box: The locator box gives an idea of your progress on the map section. For an overview of the route, the Index Map shows a larger scale version of the route's location.     Matchlines: Matchlines are solid pink lines on each end of the map panel intersecting the route. The narrative leads you from matchline to matchline. Once you "reach" the matchline, turn to the next map panel and begin following its narrative, again proceeding from the near matchline to the far matchline.     Service Symbols: Symbols correspond with the service information on the text side of the map, and tell bicyclists what sort of services they will encounter along the route. These include campgrounds, bike shops, grocery stores, libraries, restaurants, post offices, hostels, motels, bed and breakfasts, and hotels.     Elevation Profiles: Elevation profiles indicate major ascents and descents. On the Lewis & Clark Trail maps (as shown here), the profile is attached to each map panel. On other maps, in the mountainous regions of the country, the profile appears in one continuous panel on the text side of the map. (Not all map sections have elevation profiles.)     North Arrow: The north arrow is not necessarily up as it is on most maps, and it changes orientation from panel to panel. This allows as many miles of the route as possible to be depicted on each map panel.     End Mileages: The mileage to either end of the route section is shown at the border of each map panel.     Annual Events and Points of Interest: For your information, selected museums, points of interest, and events are included, where space allows, on the map panels. Museums have a brief description of their exhibits. Annual events have a brief description and the time of year they occur.         Northern Tier Route    Anacortes, WA, to Bar Harbor, ME - 11 map set (4,316 mi.)         ANACORTES, WASHINGTON, TO FARGO, NORTH DAKOTA   This portion of the Northern Tier begins in Anacortes, Washington, which is located on a peninsula in Puget Sound. Anacortes is also the jumping-off point for folks going to the San Juan Islands, a favorite cycling destination. At the start, the combination of lush forest and ocean feeds and moistens the soul. Heading eastward along the rushing Skagit River, you carry that feeling up to the top of Rainy and Washington passes in the Cascade Mountains. Descending to the east side of the Cascades brings you into the drier part of the state and the widely known orchard country of the Okanogan Valley. Leaving this valley, you'll be climbing and descending several more passes full of ponderosa pines and finding many sleepy farming communities down along the rivers you cross. The river valleys tend to run in a north-south direction across the northwestern part of the United States, and because the route travels west to east, you will be working your way up and down. There are plenty of towns, rivers, lakes, mountains, and forests in eastern Washington, Idaho, and western Montana until you reach Cut Bank, on the eastern slope of the Rocky Mountains.   The spectacular Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park is a hard climb but well worth it for the scenery. The route takes a jump into Canada to access Waterton Lakes National Park, and then you'll head back into the States at Del Bonita, a little-used border crossing. Cut Bank is the beginning of the Great Plains, and from here on you'll start praying for tailwinds. Supposedly, heading eastward, tailwinds predominate in the summer. The route uses U.S. Highway 2, the main road through central and eastern Montana along the railroad, so camping spots can occasionally be somewhat loud. Wherever possible, side roads are used to relieve the monotony of being on the highway. Afternoon thundershowers are a constant companion out on the Plains. You'll follow the Missouri River from Havre, Montana, to New Town, North Dakota, and the plains of Montana eventually transform into the green rolling hills of western North Dakota. Sunflowers are everywhere, and they become the crop of choice as the terrain flattens out in eastern North Dakota. Fargo is located on the banks of the Red River, on the border of North Dakota and Minnesota.   Terrain The route lets you warm up slightly before the major climbing begins. There are four major passes in the first 300 miles, and Sherman Pass is the highest at 5,575 feet. It then becomes rolling, the route following river valleys until you reach Glacier National Park. Logan Pass, on Going-to-the-Sun Road, is the last major climb. There's a series of roller-coaster hills heading into Canada. Once you get about 20 miles east of the Rocky Mountains, it starts to become Big Sky country with moderately hilly plains. The plains roll out through Montana and become hilly in western North Dakota, and then the route flattens out in eastern North Dakota.   Logistics Services are generally good along this route. There is a 71-mile stretch of limited services between Cardston, Alberta, and Cut Bank, Montana. There are also some sporadic spots lacking services in central Montana, but nothing is farther apart than a day's ride. The people of the towns across the plains of Montana and North Dakota are super generous and genuine. Camping in town parks is not uncommon. Another 74-mile stretch of limited services occurs between Williston and New Town, North Dakota. Only a few bike shops exist between Whitefish, Montana, and Fargo, North Dakota, a distance of 1,150 miles.   FARGO, NORTH DAKOTA, TO MUSCATINE, IOWA This portion of the Northern Tier Route can be ridden from late spring to late fall. Due to changing local conditions, it is difficult to predict any major wind patterns, but tornadoes are common in Iowa. They mostly occur in May and June.   Heading east from Fargo and Moorhead in the Red River Valley, you begin to slowly leave the Great Plains. Lakes and hills become the standard scenery, and the resident mosquitos increase in number. The birthplace of the Mississippi River is in Lake Itasca State Park, in northern Minnesota. This area is so full of forests, lakes, and rivers that it draws many recreationalists during the summer months. The route follows the Mississippi River, until it heads east around the cities of Minneapolis, St. Paul, and surrounding towns. There is a spur into Minneapolis-St. Paul that ends with access to the airport. Along the St. Croix and Mississippi rivers, the towns are older and the buildings much more historic. At Prescott, Wisconsin, the St. Croix joins the Mississippi, and the route again follows that river southward for 175 miles. You'll leave the river occasionally on less-traveled roads, but these also mean climbing and descending the bluffs along the river. As you enter Iowa, you may think that the terrain is going to flatten out, but the hills continue after leaving the river. Small laid-back farm towns are abundant through Iowa. The route ends in Muscatine, an old industrial town located on the Mississippi.   Terrain The terrain is continuously rolling over the entire length of this route. Ask any Iowan if Iowa is flat, they will respond with a "No," especially in the northeastern part of the state.   Logistics Services are abundant throughout the route, and the townsfolk are friendly in the Midwest.   MUSCATINE, IOWA, TO BAR HARBOR, MAINE This portion of the Northern Tier can be ridden from early spring to late fall. Due to changing local conditions, it is difficult to predict any major wind patterns. The Midwest and Great Lakes summers can be hot, especially inland. Along the Great Lakes, breezes provide cooling and are sometimes a friend and sometimes a foe.   Beginning at the Mississippi River, the route traverses the large prairie farms of central Illinois and the smaller farms of Indiana and Ohio, eventually reaching the shore of Lake Erie at Huron, Ohio. Here a side trip takes you to nearby Cedar Point Amusement Park, where you can ride the greatest number of the most pulse-raising roller coasters in the country. Or you can take a ferry to one or more of the Lake Erie islands and visit the area where Admiral Perry defeated the British fleet in the War of 1812. Heading through busy Cleveland, you'll pass the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, the Science Center and its IMAX theater, a retired Great Lakes iron ore freighter, and a World War II submarine.   Along the lake shore in eastern Ohio and Pennsylvania, the route passes through small towns, where tourists flock to the shore during summer. In Erie, Pennsylvania, you can explore the miles of sand beach at Presque Isle State Park and the replica of the sailing ship Niagara, Admiral Perry's flagship in the War of 1812 Battle of Lake Erie. Leaving Erie, the route enters the fruit and wine region of Pennsylvania and New York and hugs the relatively rural lake shore to the outskirts of Buffalo, New York. Views across Lake Erie of the Buffalo skyline and Canada usher the cyclist into the bustle of the southern end of the metropolis. The route passes the magnificent Basilica of Our Lady of Victory in Lackawanna, and seeing its magnificent Italian Renaissance and French Baroque architecture is a must. Through the suburbs to the Peace Bridge, ride carefully through the city streets. The route takes you to the lakefront Buffalo Naval and Military Park with World War II vessels open for visits.   After crossing the Peace Bridge into Canada you'll follow one of the most scenic recreational trails in North America along the Niagara River to Niagara Falls. Take the cable car ride across the Whirlpool Rapids and visit the other attractions along the trail. Then you'll cross back into the U.S., enjoying the view of the Niagara Gorge. Heading east, the route uses the Erie Canalway Trail for 85 miles along a waterway dripping with history. Take the time to explore the towns along the canal. At Palmyra, the route turns north to Lake Ontario, where it follows the lake shore to Sodus Bay, dips inland to Fair Haven, and then leaves the Great Lakes to cross the Adirondack Mountains and arrive at Ticonderoga on Lake Champlain. A visit to Fort Ticonderoga will give meaning to Revolutionary War history.   After a short ferry ride over the lake, you are in New England, cycling through Vermont farmland, forested hills, and picturesque villages. In New Hampshire, the route follows the Connecticut River, passing through the villages of Orford with its ridge houses and Haverhill, a classic New England village with its fenced village commons and old homes. The route crosses the White Mountains, the backbone of New Hampshire, on the famous Kancamagus Highway. Mt. Washington, noted for its fierce weather, is just a few miles north, and the Kancamagus shares some of its weather reputation. Be prepared, even in summer. Entering Maine, you'll traverse forests and fields, arriving at Rockport on the coast. Allow time to savor the quintessential ambiance of the coastal towns. Before crossing the Penobscot River, stray off route to visit Ft. Knox, an exceptionally well-preserved unused Revolutionary War fort. Finally, don't end your trip without cycling the gravel carriage paths of Acadia National Park and viewing a sunrise from atop Cadillac Mountain. The park is near the town of Bar Harbor, at the end of the route.   Terrain The first 946 miles of this route (from the Mississippi River to Palmyra, New York) is virtually flat. Illinois has some gently rolling prairie and is treeless except in towns. The trees increase in Indiana. East of Cleveland, Ohio, the route climbs to a low ridge for a few miles and then descends back to the lake shore until Buffalo, New York. From Buffalo to Palmyra, the route experiences only slight elevation changes at the locks along the Erie Canal. The mountains in New York, Vermont, and New Hampshire extend north and south, and the route travels east-west so the remainder of the route has a lot a variety — flat sections along river valleys and several challenging climbs. The Kancamagus Pass at 2,855 feet is the highest point on this portion of the Northern Tier Route.   Logistics Overall most services along this route can be found only in towns. Campgrounds are reasonably plentiful, but there are a few gaps, and advanced planning is needed if you are camping. Some cyclists may want to do the eastern portions of this route during the colors of autumn. If you do, call ahead to verify campgrounds because many close after Labor Day. If staying indoors, make advance reservations.   PLEASE REMEMBER TO CHECK FOR UPDATED ADDENDA BEFORE STARTING A TRIP!       http://www.cyclocamping.com/proddetail.asp?prod=GOTBC-1611 http://www.cyclocamping.com/proddetail.asp?prod=GOTBC-1611 http://www.cyclocamping.com/prodimages/small/GOTBC-1611-1.jpg     Map Features      Adventure Cycling Association developed the best cross-country, loop, coastal and inland cycling routes available, with turn-by-turn directions, detailed navigational instructions for the tricky sections, and elevation profiles in the high country. The maps are also waterproof and sized to fit in a handlebar-bag window or jersey pocket.   ADVENTURE CYCLE MAP INCLUDE:   Service symbols indicating the locations of campgrounds, hostels, motels, gas stations, groceries, restaurants, post offices, and bike shops Narratives with turn-by-turn instructions for traveling in either direction Distances given in miles and kilometers Contour lines providing a general idea of elevation gains and losses Elevation profiles in mountainous regions with major ascents and descents indicated Details about the natural history and cultural heritage along the route A weather chart providing average monthly rainfall and mean temperatures at various points along the route Large-scale detail maps of urban or congested areas Summaries of riding conditions to provide information on road surfaces, traffic volumes, and areas of caution Our Online Addenda, where updates are always available and current These routes are available to you in 300 to 400-mile map sections, so you can plan anything from a weekend trip to a multi-month adventure. Our routes feature the backroads of America where you can experience the communities and rural landscapes that make our country unique. We want you to see a rural America that can't be seen from the freeways. Our generous members and supporters are helping to create and maintain our legacy and gift to the nation -- the Adventure Cycling Route Network.     THE FINER DETAILS OF ADVENTURE CYCLING MAPS   Adventure Cycling Association maps are divided in a dozen 40-60 miles sections (1/2 a day to 1 day biking), this is an example of one of those section:     Bi-directional Narratives: Narratives have detailed turn-by-turn instructions for traveling in either direction. The number preceding each directive indicates the distance you've come since the beginning of the map panel at the matchline. (The number following in parentheses is the distance in kilometers.) Changes in road names and numbers are marked by stars both in the narrative and on the map panel.     Locator Box: The locator box gives an idea of your progress on the map section. For an overview of the route, the Index Map shows a larger scale version of the route's location.     Matchlines: Matchlines are solid pink lines on each end of the map panel intersecting the route. The narrative leads you from matchline to matchline. Once you "reach" the matchline, turn to the next map panel and begin following its narrative, again proceeding from the near matchline to the far matchline.     Service Symbols: Symbols correspond with the service information on the text side of the map, and tell bicyclists what sort of services they will encounter along the route. These include campgrounds, bike shops, grocery stores, libraries, restaurants, post offices, hostels, motels, bed and breakfasts, and hotels.     Elevation Profiles: Elevation profiles indicate major ascents and descents. On the Lewis & Clark Trail maps (as shown here), the profile is attached to each map panel. On other maps, in the mountainous regions of the country, the profile appears in one continuous panel on the text side of the map. (Not all map sections have elevation profiles.)     North Arrow: The north arrow is not necessarily up as it is on most maps, and it changes orientation from panel to panel. This allows as many miles of the route as possible to be depicted on each map panel.     End Mileages: The mileage to either end of the route section is shown at the border of each map panel.     Annual Events and Points of Interest: For your information, selected museums, points of interest, and events are included, where space allows, on the map panels. Museums have a brief description of their exhibits. Annual events have a brief description and the time of year they occur.         Pacific Coast Route    Vancouver, BC, to Imperial Beach, CA - 5 map set (1,853.5 mi.)           WASHINGTON AND OREGON Along the Pacific Coast Route, you'll get to see marine wildlife such as sea lions, and as you pass you can hear them barking. Take the time to watch as one by one they dive off their rocks in search of their daily meal of fish from the ocean. During the peak tourist season, there is heavy recreational vehicle traffic along U.S. Highway 101 along the coast, so cyclists must ride cautiously and defensively. This route can be ridden from early spring to late fall. Heavy winter rains can cause flooding and mud slides and may close roads, especially along the coast in the spring. Fog can also be a problem during any season. Due to changing local conditions, it is difficult to predict any major wind patterns.     The route begins in Vancouver, British Columbia and heads south through the suburbs of this large city. Farmlands appear before crossing the border at Blaine into the United States, and you'll continue through more rural country after entering Washington. After crossing Deception Pass, the route is on Whidbey Island, where there is a large U.S. Naval Reservation, and the loud noise of test jets flying overhead can be heard. There's a pleasant ferry ride over to Port Townsend, which is back on the mainland. The route then winds southward through a series of small towns on the eastern side of the Olympic Peninsula. In Bremerton, if you're interested, you can catch a ferry that takes you directly to downtown Seattle and its attractions. You'll then head into logging country and see forest plantations in various stages of development: recently clear-cut, newly planted, middle-aged, or ready to be harvested. At Castle Rock, a five-mile side trip leads to the Mount St. Helens Visitor Center, which tells the tale of the volcano's eruption in 1981.   A short ferry ride crosses the Columbia River into Oregon to begin a magnificent ride down the coast. You'll bike along the shoreline and headlands and see mile after mile of spectacular scenery including lighthouses, craggy coastal pines, and rock formations in the water. Innumerable parks dot the coast and invite one to stop and take hikes down to the water for tide pool viewing. Small towns are abundant and cater to the tourists who invade the coast from spring to fall.   Terrain The route's terrain in Canada and Washington is flat to rolling hills, with a few climbs. Biking along the Oregon coast means hills, and some of them are steep, but it also means that your spectacular views will be well-earned. Don't forget that your uphills on one side of a coastal headland mean a downhill on the other side.   Logistics There are plenty of services along the route. The Oregon Coast draws a large amount of tourists, so it has the facilities to cater to them. For those who are camping, there are many state park campgrounds near the beaches with hiker/biker sites.   CALIFORNIA COAST The curvy, winding roads along the Pacific Coast Route are shared with farm and logging trucks, cars, and recreational vehicles, so extra caution is needed by cyclists. There are bike paths in some of the large cities the route goes through, and you'll need all your defensive urban cycling skills to contend with the heavy traffic. But this is California, land of sun and fun (especially along the southern portion of the route). Take advantage and go jump into the Pacific on a whim or watch a beautiful sunset. This route can be ridden at any time of the year, but spring and autumn are optimal periods to avoid the increased tourist traffic in the summer. And be forewarned: heavy winter rains can cause flooding and mud slides and may close roads, especially along the coast. Heavy fog can also be a problem during any season. Due to changing local conditions, it is difficult to predict any major wind patterns, but during summer, strong winds will prevail from north to south.   Soon after passing through Crescent City, you will be biking through awe-inspiring redwood country on roads shaded by trees reaching high into the sky. A herd of elk live near Orick and are usually easy to spot. The redwoods are a big tourist area, so you'll have the opportunity to bike through trees that most people drive their cars through. After leaving the redwoods, you'll enjoy scenic riding along the Pacific Ocean, where the route climbs and descends along the coastal headlands.   Biking over the Golden Gate Bridge into San Francisco is a real treat, and the route stays on the western edge of the city. Heading southward along the coast, there are numerous state beaches. If you're at the Año Nuevo State Reserve during the elephant seal mating season in January, viewing the seals is not to be missed. North of Monterey, acres of farms begin to appear in the Salinas Valley, a prime agricultural area known as the "Artichoke Capital of the World."   After leaving Carmel, the ride south along the Pacific Coast Highway is the most spectacular portion of the route for many cyclists. This winding, scenic road high above the Pacific has been seen many times in television shows, commercials, and movies. Leaving the Santa Lucia Mountains and the coast, it is evident that you've reached "southern" California. You'll encounter many fertile farms and areas with various degrees of development. Santa Barbara is an easy town to cycle through. When you reach Malibu, you'll find tremendous congestion and view hundreds of trophy homes built into the hillsides or along the beaches. This is the northern end of the Los Angeles megalopolis.   Beginning in Santa Monica, the route uses some beautiful bike paths that go right through the middle of the sandy beaches, and then you'll ride through residential and industrial areas before rejoining the Pacific Coast Highway south of the city. All the way to San Diego, there will be a mix of urban cycling through towns, bike paths, highways, and shore roads. Through San Diego and its suburbs, the route follows residential streets and bike paths to the Coronado Pedestrian-Bicycle Ferry, which takes you to Coronado and a bike path along Silver Strand State Beach, then to the route's end near the Mexican border.   Terrain This route segment is generally hilly, with lots of ups and downs following the coastline in the northern part of the state. Some sections in the southern part of the route are rolling to flat, especially along the various cities' bike paths along the beaches.   Logistics Services abound on this ride. There is a stretch between Half Moon Bay and Davenport that doesn't have much to offer, so plan ahead with extra drinks and snacks. The California Coast is a high-profile tourist area, so it has facilities that cater to tourists, but be prepared for higher prices. For those who like to camp, there are many appealing campgrounds at state parks near the beaches, perfect for watching dramatic sunsets. PLEASE REMEMBER TO CHECK FOR UPDATED ADDENDA BEFORE STARTING A TRIP!       http://www.cyclocamping.com/proddetail.asp?prod=GOTBC-1612 http://www.cyclocamping.com/proddetail.asp?prod=GOTBC-1612 http://www.cyclocamping.com/prodimages/small/GOTBC-1612-1.jpg     Map Features      Adventure Cycling Association developed the best cross-country, loop, coastal and inland cycling routes available, with turn-by-turn directions, detailed navigational instructions for the tricky sections, and elevation profiles in the high country. The maps are also waterproof and sized to fit in a handlebar-bag window or jersey pocket.   ADVENTURE CYCLE MAP INCLUDE:   Service symbols indicating the locations of campgrounds, hostels, motels, gas stations, groceries, restaurants, post offices, and bike shops Narratives with turn-by-turn instructions for traveling in either direction Distances given in miles and kilometers Contour lines providing a general idea of elevation gains and losses Elevation profiles in mountainous regions with major ascents and descents indicated Details about the natural history and cultural heritage along the route A weather chart providing average monthly rainfall and mean temperatures at various points along the route Large-scale detail maps of urban or congested areas Summaries of riding conditions to provide information on road surfaces, traffic volumes, and areas of caution Our Online Addenda, where updates are always available and current These routes are available to you in 300 to 400-mile map sections, so you can plan anything from a weekend trip to a multi-month adventure. Our routes feature the backroads of America where you can experience the communities and rural landscapes that make our country unique. We want you to see a rural America that can't be seen from the freeways. Our generous members and supporters are helping to create and maintain our legacy and gift to the nation -- the Adventure Cycling Route Network.     THE FINER DETAILS OF ADVENTURE CYCLING MAPS   Adventure Cycling Association maps are divided in a dozen 40-60 miles sections (1/2 a day to 1 day biking), this is an example of one of those section:     Bi-directional Narratives: Narratives have detailed turn-by-turn instructions for traveling in either direction. The number preceding each directive indicates the distance you've come since the beginning of the map panel at the matchline. (The number following in parentheses is the distance in kilometers.) Changes in road names and numbers are marked by stars both in the narrative and on the map panel.     Locator Box: The locator box gives an idea of your progress on the map section. For an overview of the route, the Index Map shows a larger scale version of the route's location.     Matchlines: Matchlines are solid pink lines on each end of the map panel intersecting the route. The narrative leads you from matchline to matchline. Once you "reach" the matchline, turn to the next map panel and begin following its narrative, again proceeding from the near matchline to the far matchline.     Service Symbols: Symbols correspond with the service information on the text side of the map, and tell bicyclists what sort of services they will encounter along the route. These include campgrounds, bike shops, grocery stores, libraries, restaurants, post offices, hostels, motels, bed and breakfasts, and hotels.     Elevation Profiles: Elevation profiles indicate major ascents and descents. On the Lewis & Clark Trail maps (as shown here), the profile is attached to each map panel. On other maps, in the mountainous regions of the country, the profile appears in one continuous panel on the text side of the map. (Not all map sections have elevation profiles.)     North Arrow: The north arrow is not necessarily up as it is on most maps, and it changes orientation from panel to panel. This allows as many miles of the route as possible to be depicted on each map panel.     End Mileages: The mileage to either end of the route section is shown at the border of each map panel.     Annual Events and Points of Interest: For your information, selected museums, points of interest, and events are included, where space allows, on the map panels. Museums have a brief description of their exhibits. Annual events have a brief description and the time of year they occur.         Pacific Coast Route    Vancouver, BC, to Imperial Beach, CA - 5 map set (1,853.5 mi.)           WASHINGTON AND OREGON Along the Pacific Coast Route, you'll get to see marine wildlife such as sea lions, and as you pass you can hear them barking. Take the time to watch as one by one they dive off their rocks in search of their daily meal of fish from the ocean. During the peak tourist season, there is heavy recreational vehicle traffic along U.S. Highway 101 along the coast, so cyclists must ride cautiously and defensively. This route can be ridden from early spring to late fall. Heavy winter rains can cause flooding and mud slides and may close roads, especially along the coast in the spring. Fog can also be a problem during any season. Due to changing local conditions, it is difficult to predict any major wind patterns.     The route begins in Vancouver, British Columbia and heads south through the suburbs of this large city. Farmlands appear before crossing the border at Blaine into the United States, and you'll continue through more rural country after entering Washington. After crossing Deception Pass, the route is on Whidbey Island, where there is a large U.S. Naval Reservation, and the loud noise of test jets flying overhead can be heard. There's a pleasant ferry ride over to Port Townsend, which is back on the mainland. The route then winds southward through a series of small towns on the eastern side of the Olympic Peninsula. In Bremerton, if you're interested, you can catch a ferry that takes you directly to downtown Seattle and its attractions. You'll then head into logging country and see forest plantations in various stages of development: recently clear-cut, newly planted, middle-aged, or ready to be harvested. At Castle Rock, a five-mile side trip leads to the Mount St. Helens Visitor Center, which tells the tale of the volcano's eruption in 1981.   A short ferry ride crosses the Columbia River into Oregon to begin a magnificent ride down the coast. You'll bike along the shoreline and headlands and see mile after mile of spectacular scenery including lighthouses, craggy coastal pines, and rock formations in the water. Innumerable parks dot the coast and invite one to stop and take hikes down to the water for tide pool viewing. Small towns are abundant and cater to the tourists who invade the coast from spring to fall.   Terrain The route's terrain in Canada and Washington is flat to rolling hills, with a few climbs. Biking along the Oregon coast means hills, and some of them are steep, but it also means that your spectacular views will be well-earned. Don't forget that your uphills on one side of a coastal headland mean a downhill on the other side.   Logistics There are plenty of services along the route. The Oregon Coast draws a large amount of tourists, so it has the facilities to cater to them. For those who are camping, there are many state park campgrounds near the beaches with hiker/biker sites.   CALIFORNIA COAST The curvy, winding roads along the Pacific Coast Route are shared with farm and logging trucks, cars, and recreational vehicles, so extra caution is needed by cyclists. There are bike paths in some of the large cities the route goes through, and you'll need all your defensive urban cycling skills to contend with the heavy traffic. But this is California, land of sun and fun (especially along the southern portion of the route). Take advantage and go jump into the Pacific on a whim or watch a beautiful sunset. This route can be ridden at any time of the year, but spring and autumn are optimal periods to avoid the increased tourist traffic in the summer. And be forewarned: heavy winter rains can cause flooding and mud slides and may close roads, especially along the coast. Heavy fog can also be a problem during any season. Due to changing local conditions, it is difficult to predict any major wind patterns, but during summer, strong winds will prevail from north to south.   Soon after passing through Crescent City, you will be biking through awe-inspiring redwood country on roads shaded by trees reaching high into the sky. A herd of elk live near Orick and are usually easy to spot. The redwoods are a big tourist area, so you'll have the opportunity to bike through trees that most people drive their cars through. After leaving the redwoods, you'll enjoy scenic riding along the Pacific Ocean, where the route climbs and descends along the coastal headlands.   Biking over the Golden Gate Bridge into San Francisco is a real treat, and the route stays on the western edge of the city. Heading southward along the coast, there are numerous state beaches. If you're at the Año Nuevo State Reserve during the elephant seal mating season in January, viewing the seals is not to be missed. North of Monterey, acres of farms begin to appear in the Salinas Valley, a prime agricultural area known as the "Artichoke Capital of the World."   After leaving Carmel, the ride south along the Pacific Coast Highway is the most spectacular portion of the route for many cyclists. This winding, scenic road high above the Pacific has been seen many times in television shows, commercials, and movies. Leaving the Santa Lucia Mountains and the coast, it is evident that you've reached "southern" California. You'll encounter many fertile farms and areas with various degrees of development. Santa Barbara is an easy town to cycle through. When you reach Malibu, you'll find tremendous congestion and view hundreds of trophy homes built into the hillsides or along the beaches. This is the northern end of the Los Angeles megalopolis.   Beginning in Santa Monica, the route uses some beautiful bike paths that go right through the middle of the sandy beaches, and then you'll ride through residential and industrial areas before rejoining the Pacific Coast Highway south of the city. All the way to San Diego, there will be a mix of urban cycling through towns, bike paths, highways, and shore roads. Through San Diego and its suburbs, the route follows residential streets and bike paths to the Coronado Pedestrian-Bicycle Ferry, which takes you to Coronado and a bike path along Silver Strand State Beach, then to the route's end near the Mexican border.   Terrain This route segment is generally hilly, with lots of ups and downs following the coastline in the northern part of the state. Some sections in the southern part of the route are rolling to flat, especially along the various cities' bike paths along the beaches.   Logistics Services abound on this ride. There is a stretch between Half Moon Bay and Davenport that doesn't have much to offer, so plan ahead with extra drinks and snacks. The California Coast is a high-profile tourist area, so it has facilities that cater to tourists, but be prepared for higher prices. For those who like to camp, there are many appealing campgrounds at state parks near the beaches, perfect for watching dramatic sunsets. PLEASE REMEMBER TO CHECK FOR UPDATED ADDENDA BEFORE STARTING A TRIP!       http://www.cyclocamping.com/proddetail.asp?prod=GOTBC-1621 http://www.cyclocamping.com/proddetail.asp?prod=GOTBC-1621 http://www.cyclocamping.com/prodimages/small/GOTBC-1621-1.jpg     Map Features      Adventure Cycling Association developed the best cross-country, loop, coastal and inland cycling routes available, with turn-by-turn directions, detailed navigational instructions for the tricky sections, and elevation profiles in the high country. The maps are also waterproof and sized to fit in a handlebar-bag window or jersey pocket.   ADVENTURE CYCLE MAP INCLUDE:   Service symbols indicating the locations of campgrounds, hostels, motels, gas stations, groceries, restaurants, post offices, and bike shops Narratives with turn-by-turn instructions for traveling in either direction Distances given in miles and kilometers Contour lines providing a general idea of elevation gains and losses Elevation profiles in mountainous regions with major ascents and descents indicated Details about the natural history and cultural heritage along the route A weather chart providing average monthly rainfall and mean temperatures at various points along the route Large-scale detail maps of urban or congested areas Summaries of riding conditions to provide information on road surfaces, traffic volumes, and areas of caution Our Online Addenda, where updates are always available and current These routes are available to you in 300 to 400-mile map sections, so you can plan anything from a weekend trip to a multi-month adventure. Our routes feature the backroads of America where you can experience the communities and rural landscapes that make our country unique. We want you to see a rural America that can't be seen from the freeways. Our generous members and supporters are helping to create and maintain our legacy and gift to the nation -- the Adventure Cycling Route Network.     THE FINER DETAILS OF ADVENTURE CYCLING MAPS   Adventure Cycling Association maps are divided in a dozen 40-60 miles sections (1/2 a day to 1 day biking), this is an example of one of those section:     Bi-directional Narratives: Narratives have detailed turn-by-turn instructions for traveling in either direction. The number preceding each directive indicates the distance you've come since the beginning of the map panel at the matchline. (The number following in parentheses is the distance in kilometers.) Changes in road names and numbers are marked by stars both in the narrative and on the map panel.     Locator Box: The locator box gives an idea of your progress on the map section. For an overview of the route, the Index Map shows a larger scale version of the route's location.     Matchlines: Matchlines are solid pink lines on each end of the map panel intersecting the route. The narrative leads you from matchline to matchline. Once you "reach" the matchline, turn to the next map panel and begin following its narrative, again proceeding from the near matchline to the far matchline.     Service Symbols: Symbols correspond with the service information on the text side of the map, and tell bicyclists what sort of services they will encounter along the route. These include campgrounds, bike shops, grocery stores, libraries, restaurants, post offices, hostels, motels, bed and breakfasts, and hotels.     Elevation Profiles: Elevation profiles indicate major ascents and descents. On the Lewis & Clark Trail maps (as shown here), the profile is attached to each map panel. On other maps, in the mountainous regions of the country, the profile appears in one continuous panel on the text side of the map. (Not all map sections have elevation profiles.)     North Arrow: The north arrow is not necessarily up as it is on most maps, and it changes orientation from panel to panel. This allows as many miles of the route as possible to be depicted on each map panel.     End Mileages: The mileage to either end of the route section is shown at the border of each map panel.     Annual Events and Points of Interest: For your information, selected museums, points of interest, and events are included, where space allows, on the map panels. Museums have a brief description of their exhibits. Annual events have a brief description and the time of year they occur.         Pacific Coast Route    Vancouver, BC, to Imperial Beach, CA - 5 map set (1,853.5 mi.)           WASHINGTON AND OREGON Along the Pacific Coast Route, you'll get to see marine wildlife such as sea lions, and as you pass you can hear them barking. Take the time to watch as one by one they dive off their rocks in search of their daily meal of fish from the ocean. During the peak tourist season, there is heavy recreational vehicle traffic along U.S. Highway 101 along the coast, so cyclists must ride cautiously and defensively. This route can be ridden from early spring to late fall. Heavy winter rains can cause flooding and mud slides and may close roads, especially along the coast in the spring. Fog can also be a problem during any season. Due to changing local conditions, it is difficult to predict any major wind patterns.     The route begins in Vancouver, British Columbia and heads south through the suburbs of this large city. Farmlands appear before crossing the border at Blaine into the United States, and you'll continue through more rural country after entering Washington. After crossing Deception Pass, the route is on Whidbey Island, where there is a large U.S. Naval Reservation, and the loud noise of test jets flying overhead can be heard. There's a pleasant ferry ride over to Port Townsend, which is back on the mainland. The route then winds southward through a series of small towns on the eastern side of the Olympic Peninsula. In Bremerton, if you're interested, you can catch a ferry that takes you directly to downtown Seattle and its attractions. You'll then head into logging country and see forest plantations in various stages of development: recently clear-cut, newly planted, middle-aged, or ready to be harvested. At Castle Rock, a five-mile side trip leads to the Mount St. Helens Visitor Center, which tells the tale of the volcano's eruption in 1981.   A short ferry ride crosses the Columbia River into Oregon to begin a magnificent ride down the coast. You'll bike along the shoreline and headlands and see mile after mile of spectacular scenery including lighthouses, craggy coastal pines, and rock formations in the water. Innumerable parks dot the coast and invite one to stop and take hikes down to the water for tide pool viewing. Small towns are abundant and cater to the tourists who invade the coast from spring to fall.   Terrain The route's terrain in Canada and Washington is flat to rolling hills, with a few climbs. Biking along the Oregon coast means hills, and some of them are steep, but it also means that your spectacular views will be well-earned. Don't forget that your uphills on one side of a coastal headland mean a downhill on the other side.   Logistics There are plenty of services along the route. The Oregon Coast draws a large amount of tourists, so it has the facilities to cater to them. For those who are camping, there are many state park campgrounds near the beaches with hiker/biker sites.   CALIFORNIA COAST The curvy, winding roads along the Pacific Coast Route are shared with farm and logging trucks, cars, and recreational vehicles, so extra caution is needed by cyclists. There are bike paths in some of the large cities the route goes through, and you'll need all your defensive urban cycling skills to contend with the heavy traffic. But this is California, land of sun and fun (especially along the southern portion of the route). Take advantage and go jump into the Pacific on a whim or watch a beautiful sunset. This route can be ridden at any time of the year, but spring and autumn are optimal periods to avoid the increased tourist traffic in the summer. And be forewarned: heavy winter rains can cause flooding and mud slides and may close roads, especially along the coast. Heavy fog can also be a problem during any season. Due to changing local conditions, it is difficult to predict any major wind patterns, but during summer, strong winds will prevail from north to south.   Soon after passing through Crescent City, you will be biking through awe-inspiring redwood country on roads shaded by trees reaching high into the sky. A herd of elk live near Orick and are usually easy to spot. The redwoods are a big tourist area, so you'll have the opportunity to bike through trees that most people drive their cars through. After leaving the redwoods, you'll enjoy scenic riding along the Pacific Ocean, where the route climbs and descends along the coastal headlands.   Biking over the Golden Gate Bridge into San Francisco is a real treat, and the route stays on the western edge of the city. Heading southward along the coast, there are numerous state beaches. If you're at the Año Nuevo State Reserve during the elephant seal mating season in January, viewing the seals is not to be missed. North of Monterey, acres of farms begin to appear in the Salinas Valley, a prime agricultural area known as the "Artichoke Capital of the World."   After leaving Carmel, the ride south along the Pacific Coast Highway is the most spectacular portion of the route for many cyclists. This winding, scenic road high above the Pacific has been seen many times in television shows, commercials, and movies. Leaving the Santa Lucia Mountains and the coast, it is evident that you've reached "southern" California. You'll encounter many fertile farms and areas with various degrees of development. Santa Barbara is an easy town to cycle through. When you reach Malibu, you'll find tremendous congestion and view hundreds of trophy homes built into the hillsides or along the beaches. This is the northern end of the Los Angeles megalopolis.   Beginning in Santa Monica, the route uses some beautiful bike paths that go right through the middle of the sandy beaches, and then you'll ride through residential and industrial areas before rejoining the Pacific Coast Highway south of the city. All the way to San Diego, there will be a mix of urban cycling through towns, bike paths, highways, and shore roads. Through San Diego and its suburbs, the route follows residential streets and bike paths to the Coronado Pedestrian-Bicycle Ferry, which takes you to Coronado and a bike path along Silver Strand State Beach, then to the route's end near the Mexican border.   Terrain This route segment is generally hilly, with lots of ups and downs following the coastline in the northern part of the state. Some sections in the southern part of the route are rolling to flat, especially along the various cities' bike paths along the beaches.   Logistics Services abound on this ride. There is a stretch between Half Moon Bay and Davenport that doesn't have much to offer, so plan ahead with extra drinks and snacks. The California Coast is a high-profile tourist area, so it has facilities that cater to tourists, but be prepared for higher prices. For those who like to camp, there are many appealing campgrounds at state parks near the beaches, perfect for watching dramatic sunsets. PLEASE REMEMBER TO CHECK FOR UPDATED ADDENDA BEFORE STARTING A TRIP!       http://www.cyclocamping.com/proddetail.asp?prod=GOTBC-1622 http://www.cyclocamping.com/proddetail.asp?prod=GOTBC-1622 http://www.cyclocamping.com/prodimages/small/GOTBC-1622-1.jpg     Map Features      Adventure Cycling Association developed the best cross-country, loop, coastal and inland cycling routes available, with turn-by-turn directions, detailed navigational instructions for the tricky sections, and elevation profiles in the high country. The maps are also waterproof and sized to fit in a handlebar-bag window or jersey pocket.   ADVENTURE CYCLE MAP INCLUDE:   Service symbols indicating the locations of campgrounds, hostels, motels, gas stations, groceries, restaurants, post offices, and bike shops Narratives with turn-by-turn instructions for traveling in either direction Distances given in miles and kilometers Contour lines providing a general idea of elevation gains and losses Elevation profiles in mountainous regions with major ascents and descents indicated Details about the natural history and cultural heritage along the route A weather chart providing average monthly rainfall and mean temperatures at various points along the route Large-scale detail maps of urban or congested areas Summaries of riding conditions to provide information on road surfaces, traffic volumes, and areas of caution Our Online Addenda, where updates are always available and current These routes are available to you in 300 to 400-mile map sections, so you can plan anything from a weekend trip to a multi-month adventure. Our routes feature the backroads of America where you can experience the communities and rural landscapes that make our country unique. We want you to see a rural America that can't be seen from the freeways. Our generous members and supporters are helping to create and maintain our legacy and gift to the nation -- the Adventure Cycling Route Network.     THE FINER DETAILS OF ADVENTURE CYCLING MAPS   Adventure Cycling Association maps are divided in a dozen 40-60 miles sections (1/2 a day to 1 day biking), this is an example of one of those section:     Bi-directional Narratives: Narratives have detailed turn-by-turn instructions for traveling in either direction. The number preceding each directive indicates the distance you've come since the beginning of the map panel at the matchline. (The number following in parentheses is the distance in kilometers.) Changes in road names and numbers are marked by stars both in the narrative and on the map panel.     Locator Box: The locator box gives an idea of your progress on the map section. For an overview of the route, the Index Map shows a larger scale version of the route's location.     Matchlines: Matchlines are solid pink lines on each end of the map panel intersecting the route. The narrative leads you from matchline to matchline. Once you "reach" the matchline, turn to the next map panel and begin following its narrative, again proceeding from the near matchline to the far matchline.     Service Symbols: Symbols correspond with the service information on the text side of the map, and tell bicyclists what sort of services they will encounter along the route. These include campgrounds, bike shops, grocery stores, libraries, restaurants, post offices, hostels, motels, bed and breakfasts, and hotels.     Elevation Profiles: Elevation profiles indicate major ascents and descents. On the Lewis & Clark Trail maps (as shown here), the profile is attached to each map panel. On other maps, in the mountainous regions of the country, the profile appears in one continuous panel on the text side of the map. (Not all map sections have elevation profiles.)     North Arrow: The north arrow is not necessarily up as it is on most maps, and it changes orientation from panel to panel. This allows as many miles of the route as possible to be depicted on each map panel.     End Mileages: The mileage to either end of the route section is shown at the border of each map panel.     Annual Events and Points of Interest: For your information, selected museums, points of interest, and events are included, where space allows, on the map panels. Museums have a brief description of their exhibits. Annual events have a brief description and the time of year they occur.         Pacific Coast Route    Vancouver, BC, to Imperial Beach, CA - 5 map set (1,853.5 mi.)           WASHINGTON AND OREGON Along the Pacific Coast Route, you'll get to see marine wildlife such as sea lions, and as you pass you can hear them barking. Take the time to watch as one by one they dive off their rocks in search of their daily meal of fish from the ocean. During the peak tourist season, there is heavy recreational vehicle traffic along U.S. Highway 101 along the coast, so cyclists must ride cautiously and defensively. This route can be ridden from early spring to late fall. Heavy winter rains can cause flooding and mud slides and may close roads, especially along the coast in the spring. Fog can also be a problem during any season. Due to changing local conditions, it is difficult to predict any major wind patterns.     The route begins in Vancouver, British Columbia and heads south through the suburbs of this large city. Farmlands appear before crossing the border at Blaine into the United States, and you'll continue through more rural country after entering Washington. After crossing Deception Pass, the route is on Whidbey Island, where there is a large U.S. Naval Reservation, and the loud noise of test jets flying overhead can be heard. There's a pleasant ferry ride over to Port Townsend, which is back on the mainland. The route then winds southward through a series of small towns on the eastern side of the Olympic Peninsula. In Bremerton, if you're interested, you can catch a ferry that takes you directly to downtown Seattle and its attractions. You'll then head into logging country and see forest plantations in various stages of development: recently clear-cut, newly planted, middle-aged, or ready to be harvested. At Castle Rock, a five-mile side trip leads to the Mount St. Helens Visitor Center, which tells the tale of the volcano's eruption in 1981.   A short ferry ride crosses the Columbia River into Oregon to begin a magnificent ride down the coast. You'll bike along the shoreline and headlands and see mile after mile of spectacular scenery including lighthouses, craggy coastal pines, and rock formations in the water. Innumerable parks dot the coast and invite one to stop and take hikes down to the water for tide pool viewing. Small towns are abundant and cater to the tourists who invade the coast from spring to fall.   Terrain The route's terrain in Canada and Washington is flat to rolling hills, with a few climbs. Biking along the Oregon coast means hills, and some of them are steep, but it also means that your spectacular views will be well-earned. Don't forget that your uphills on one side of a coastal headland mean a downhill on the other side.   Logistics There are plenty of services along the route. The Oregon Coast draws a large amount of tourists, so it has the facilities to cater to them. For those who are camping, there are many state park campgrounds near the beaches with hiker/biker sites.   CALIFORNIA COAST The curvy, winding roads along the Pacific Coast Route are shared with farm and logging trucks, cars, and recreational vehicles, so extra caution is needed by cyclists. There are bike paths in some of the large cities the route goes through, and you'll need all your defensive urban cycling skills to contend with the heavy traffic. But this is California, land of sun and fun (especially along the southern portion of the route). Take advantage and go jump into the Pacific on a whim or watch a beautiful sunset. This route can be ridden at any time of the year, but spring and autumn are optimal periods to avoid the increased tourist traffic in the summer. And be forewarned: heavy winter rains can cause flooding and mud slides and may close roads, especially along the coast. Heavy fog can also be a problem during any season. Due to changing local conditions, it is difficult to predict any major wind patterns, but during summer, strong winds will prevail from north to south.   Soon after passing through Crescent City, you will be biking through awe-inspiring redwood country on roads shaded by trees reaching high into the sky. A herd of elk live near Orick and are usually easy to spot. The redwoods are a big tourist area, so you'll have the opportunity to bike through trees that most people drive their cars through. After leaving the redwoods, you'll enjoy scenic riding along the Pacific Ocean, where the route climbs and descends along the coastal headlands.   Biking over the Golden Gate Bridge into San Francisco is a real treat, and the route stays on the western edge of the city. Heading southward along the coast, there are numerous state beaches. If you're at the Año Nuevo State Reserve during the elephant seal mating season in January, viewing the seals is not to be missed. North of Monterey, acres of farms begin to appear in the Salinas Valley, a prime agricultural area known as the "Artichoke Capital of the World."   After leaving Carmel, the ride south along the Pacific Coast Highway is the most spectacular portion of the route for many cyclists. This winding, scenic road high above the Pacific has been seen many times in television shows, commercials, and movies. Leaving the Santa Lucia Mountains and the coast, it is evident that you've reached "southern" California. You'll encounter many fertile farms and areas with various degrees of development. Santa Barbara is an easy town to cycle through. When you reach Malibu, you'll find tremendous congestion and view hundreds of trophy homes built into the hillsides or along the beaches. This is the northern end of the Los Angeles megalopolis.   Beginning in Santa Monica, the route uses some beautiful bike paths that go right through the middle of the sandy beaches, and then you'll ride through residential and industrial areas before rejoining the Pacific Coast Highway south of the city. All the way to San Diego, there will be a mix of urban cycling through towns, bike paths, highways, and shore roads. Through San Diego and its suburbs, the route follows residential streets and bike paths to the Coronado Pedestrian-Bicycle Ferry, which takes you to Coronado and a bike path along Silver Strand State Beach, then to the route's end near the Mexican border.   Terrain This route segment is generally hilly, with lots of ups and downs following the coastline in the northern part of the state. Some sections in the southern part of the route are rolling to flat, especially along the various cities' bike paths along the beaches.   Logistics Services abound on this ride. There is a stretch between Half Moon Bay and Davenport that doesn't have much to offer, so plan ahead with extra drinks and snacks. The California Coast is a high-profile tourist area, so it has facilities that cater to tourists, but be prepared for higher prices. For those who like to camp, there are many appealing campgrounds at state parks near the beaches, perfect for watching dramatic sunsets. PLEASE REMEMBER TO CHECK FOR UPDATED ADDENDA BEFORE STARTING A TRIP!       http://www.cyclocamping.com/proddetail.asp?prod=GOTBC-1623 http://www.cyclocamping.com/proddetail.asp?prod=GOTBC-1623 http://www.cyclocamping.com/prodimages/small/GOTBC-1623-1.jpg     Map Features      Adventure Cycling Association developed the best cross-country, loop, coastal and inland cycling routes available, with turn-by-turn directions, detailed navigational instructions for the tricky sections, and elevation profiles in the high country. The maps are also waterproof and sized to fit in a handlebar-bag window or jersey pocket.   ADVENTURE CYCLE MAP INCLUDE:   Service symbols indicating the locations of campgrounds, hostels, motels, gas stations, groceries, restaurants, post offices, and bike shops Narratives with turn-by-turn instructions for traveling in either direction Distances given in miles and kilometers Contour lines providing a general idea of elevation gains and losses Elevation profiles in mountainous regions with major ascents and descents indicated Details about the natural history and cultural heritage along the route A weather chart providing average monthly rainfall and mean temperatures at various points along the route Large-scale detail maps of urban or congested areas Summaries of riding conditions to provide information on road surfaces, traffic volumes, and areas of caution Our Online Addenda, where updates are always available and current These routes are available to you in 300 to 400-mile map sections, so you can plan anything from a weekend trip to a multi-month adventure. Our routes feature the backroads of America where you can experience the communities and rural landscapes that make our country unique. We want you to see a rural America that can't be seen from the freeways. Our generous members and supporters are helping to create and maintain our legacy and gift to the nation -- the Adventure Cycling Route Network.     THE FINER DETAILS OF ADVENTURE CYCLING MAPS   Adventure Cycling Association maps are divided in a dozen 40-60 miles sections (1/2 a day to 1 day biking), this is an example of one of those section:     Bi-directional Narratives: Narratives have detailed turn-by-turn instructions for traveling in either direction. The number preceding each directive indicates the distance you've come since the beginning of the map panel at the matchline. (The number following in parentheses is the distance in kilometers.) Changes in road names and numbers are marked by stars both in the narrative and on the map panel.     Locator Box: The locator box gives an idea of your progress on the map section. For an overview of the route, the Index Map shows a larger scale version of the route's location.     Matchlines: Matchlines are solid pink lines on each end of the map panel intersecting the route. The narrative leads you from matchline to matchline. Once you "reach" the matchline, turn to the next map panel and begin following its narrative, again proceeding from the near matchline to the far matchline.     Service Symbols: Symbols correspond with the service information on the text side of the map, and tell bicyclists what sort of services they will encounter along the route. These include campgrounds, bike shops, grocery stores, libraries, restaurants, post offices, hostels, motels, bed and breakfasts, and hotels.     Elevation Profiles: Elevation profiles indicate major ascents and descents. On the Lewis & Clark Trail maps (as shown here), the profile is attached to each map panel. On other maps, in the mountainous regions of the country, the profile appears in one continuous panel on the text side of the map. (Not all map sections have elevation profiles.)     North Arrow: The north arrow is not necessarily up as it is on most maps, and it changes orientation from panel to panel. This allows as many miles of the route as possible to be depicted on each map panel.     End Mileages: The mileage to either end of the route section is shown at the border of each map panel.     Annual Events and Points of Interest: For your information, selected museums, points of interest, and events are included, where space allows, on the map panels. Museums have a brief description of their exhibits. Annual events have a brief description and the time of year they occur.         Pacific Coast Route    Vancouver, BC, to Imperial Beach, CA - 5 map set (1,853.5 mi.)           WASHINGTON AND OREGON Along the Pacific Coast Route, you'll get to see marine wildlife such as sea lions, and as you pass you can hear them barking. Take the time to watch as one by one they dive off their rocks in search of their daily meal of fish from the ocean. During the peak tourist season, there is heavy recreational vehicle traffic along U.S. Highway 101 along the coast, so cyclists must ride cautiously and defensively. This route can be ridden from early spring to late fall. Heavy winter rains can cause flooding and mud slides and may close roads, especially along the coast in the spring. Fog can also be a problem during any season. Due to changing local conditions, it is difficult to predict any major wind patterns.     The route begins in Vancouver, British Columbia and heads south through the suburbs of this large city. Farmlands appear before crossing the border at Blaine into the United States, and you'll continue through more rural country after entering Washington. After crossing Deception Pass, the route is on Whidbey Island, where there is a large U.S. Naval Reservation, and the loud noise of test jets flying overhead can be heard. There's a pleasant ferry ride over to Port Townsend, which is back on the mainland. The route then winds southward through a series of small towns on the eastern side of the Olympic Peninsula. In Bremerton, if you're interested, you can catch a ferry that takes you directly to downtown Seattle and its attractions. You'll then head into logging country and see forest plantations in various stages of development: recently clear-cut, newly planted, middle-aged, or ready to be harvested. At Castle Rock, a five-mile side trip leads to the Mount St. Helens Visitor Center, which tells the tale of the volcano's eruption in 1981.   A short ferry ride crosses the Columbia River into Oregon to begin a magnificent ride down the coast. You'll bike along the shoreline and headlands and see mile after mile of spectacular scenery including lighthouses, craggy coastal pines, and rock formations in the water. Innumerable parks dot the coast and invite one to stop and take hikes down to the water for tide pool viewing. Small towns are abundant and cater to the tourists who invade the coast from spring to fall.   Terrain The route's terrain in Canada and Washington is flat to rolling hills, with a few climbs. Biking along the Oregon coast means hills, and some of them are steep, but it also means that your spectacular views will be well-earned. Don't forget that your uphills on one side of a coastal headland mean a downhill on the other side.   Logistics There are plenty of services along the route. The Oregon Coast draws a large amount of tourists, so it has the facilities to cater to them. For those who are camping, there are many state park campgrounds near the beaches with hiker/biker sites.   CALIFORNIA COAST The curvy, winding roads along the Pacific Coast Route are shared with farm and logging trucks, cars, and recreational vehicles, so extra caution is needed by cyclists. There are bike paths in some of the large cities the route goes through, and you'll need all your defensive urban cycling skills to contend with the heavy traffic. But this is California, land of sun and fun (especially along the southern portion of the route). Take advantage and go jump into the Pacific on a whim or watch a beautiful sunset. This route can be ridden at any time of the year, but spring and autumn are optimal periods to avoid the increased tourist traffic in the summer. And be forewarned: heavy winter rains can cause flooding and mud slides and may close roads, especially along the coast. Heavy fog can also be a problem during any season. Due to changing local conditions, it is difficult to predict any major wind patterns, but during summer, strong winds will prevail from north to south.   Soon after passing through Crescent City, you will be biking through awe-inspiring redwood country on roads shaded by trees reaching high into the sky. A herd of elk live near Orick and are usually easy to spot. The redwoods are a big tourist area, so you'll have the opportunity to bike through trees that most people drive their cars through. After leaving the redwoods, you'll enjoy scenic riding along the Pacific Ocean, where the route climbs and descends along the coastal headlands.   Biking over the Golden Gate Bridge into San Francisco is a real treat, and the route stays on the western edge of the city. Heading southward along the coast, there are numerous state beaches. If you're at the Año Nuevo State Reserve during the elephant seal mating season in January, viewing the seals is not to be missed. North of Monterey, acres of farms begin to appear in the Salinas Valley, a prime agricultural area known as the "Artichoke Capital of the World."   After leaving Carmel, the ride south along the Pacific Coast Highway is the most spectacular portion of the route for many cyclists. This winding, scenic road high above the Pacific has been seen many times in television shows, commercials, and movies. Leaving the Santa Lucia Mountains and the coast, it is evident that you've reached "southern" California. You'll encounter many fertile farms and areas with various degrees of development. Santa Barbara is an easy town to cycle through. When you reach Malibu, you'll find tremendous congestion and view hundreds of trophy homes built into the hillsides or along the beaches. This is the northern end of the Los Angeles megalopolis.   Beginning in Santa Monica, the route uses some beautiful bike paths that go right through the middle of the sandy beaches, and then you'll ride through residential and industrial areas before rejoining the Pacific Coast Highway south of the city. All the way to San Diego, there will be a mix of urban cycling through towns, bike paths, highways, and shore roads. Through San Diego and its suburbs, the route follows residential streets and bike paths to the Coronado Pedestrian-Bicycle Ferry, which takes you to Coronado and a bike path along Silver Strand State Beach, then to the route's end near the Mexican border.   Terrain This route segment is generally hilly, with lots of ups and downs following the coastline in the northern part of the state. Some sections in the southern part of the route are rolling to flat, especially along the various cities' bike paths along the beaches.   Logistics Services abound on this ride. There is a stretch between Half Moon Bay and Davenport that doesn't have much to offer, so plan ahead with extra drinks and snacks. The California Coast is a high-profile tourist area, so it has facilities that cater to tourists, but be prepared for higher prices. For those who like to camp, there are many appealing campgrounds at state parks near the beaches, perfect for watching dramatic sunsets. PLEASE REMEMBER TO CHECK FOR UPDATED ADDENDA BEFORE STARTING A TRIP!       http://www.cyclocamping.com/proddetail.asp?prod=GOTBC-1701 http://www.cyclocamping.com/proddetail.asp?prod=GOTBC-1701 http://www.cyclocamping.com/prodimages/small/GOTBC-1701-1.jpg     Map Features      Adventure Cycling Association developed the best cross-country, loop, coastal and inland cycling routes available, with turn-by-turn directions, detailed navigational instructions for the tricky sections, and elevation profiles in the high country. The maps are also waterproof and sized to fit in a handlebar-bag window or jersey pocket.   ADVENTURE CYCLE MAP INCLUDE:   Service symbols indicating the locations of campgrounds, hostels, motels, gas stations, groceries, restaurants, post offices, and bike shops Narratives with turn-by-turn instructions for traveling in either direction Distances given in miles and kilometers Contour lines providing a general idea of elevation gains and losses Elevation profiles in mountainous regions with major ascents and descents indicated Details about the natural history and cultural heritage along the route A weather chart providing average monthly rainfall and mean temperatures at various points along the route Large-scale detail maps of urban or congested areas Summaries of riding conditions to provide information on road surfaces, traffic volumes, and areas of caution Our Online Addenda, where updates are always available and current These routes are available to you in 300 to 400-mile map sections, so you can plan anything from a weekend trip to a multi-month adventure. Our routes feature the backroads of America where you can experience the communities and rural landscapes that make our country unique. We want you to see a rural America that can't be seen from the freeways. Our generous members and supporters are helping to create and maintain our legacy and gift to the nation -- the Adventure Cycling Route Network.     THE FINER DETAILS OF ADVENTURE CYCLING MAPS   Adventure Cycling Association maps are divided in a dozen 40-60 miles sections (1/2 a day to 1 day biking), this is an example of one of those section:     Bi-directional Narratives: Narratives have detailed turn-by-turn instructions for traveling in either direction. The number preceding each directive indicates the distance you've come since the beginning of the map panel at the matchline. (The number following in parentheses is the distance in kilometers.) Changes in road names and numbers are marked by stars both in the narrative and on the map panel.     Locator Box: The locator box gives an idea of your progress on the map section. For an overview of the route, the Index Map shows a larger scale version of the route's location.     Matchlines: Matchlines are solid pink lines on each end of the map panel intersecting the route. The narrative leads you from matchline to matchline. Once you "reach" the matchline, turn to the next map panel and begin following its narrative, again proceeding from the near matchline to the far matchline.     Service Symbols: Symbols correspond with the service information on the text side of the map, and tell bicyclists what sort of services they will encounter along the route. These include campgrounds, bike shops, grocery stores, libraries, restaurants, post offices, hostels, motels, bed and breakfasts, and hotels.     Elevation Profiles: Elevation profiles indicate major ascents and descents. On the Lewis & Clark Trail maps (as shown here), the profile is attached to each map panel. On other maps, in the mountainous regions of the country, the profile appears in one continuous panel on the text side of the map. (Not all map sections have elevation profiles.)     North Arrow: The north arrow is not necessarily up as it is on most maps, and it changes orientation from panel to panel. This allows as many miles of the route as possible to be depicted on each map panel.     End Mileages: The mileage to either end of the route section is shown at the border of each map panel.     Annual Events and Points of Interest: For your information, selected museums, points of interest, and events are included, where space allows, on the map panels. Museums have a brief description of their exhibits. Annual events have a brief description and the time of year they occur.         Southern Tier Route    San Diego, CA, to St. Augustine, FL - 7 map set (3,092.5 mi.)       FASCINATING LANDSCAPES AND DIVERSE CULTURES The Southern Tier Route can be ridden between early fall and late spring. In September and May, there still might be some very hot weather to contend with at either end of the route. Note that snow can occur at any time in the higher elevations in the Southwest during the winter, and the highest pass in New Mexico is over 8,000 feet. If you are doing a winter trip, remember that you will have short daylight hours. Due to changing local conditions, it is difficult to predict any major wind patterns, but here are a few known observations. In California, dry easterly winds predominate in the fall, blowing west from the desert. In western Texas, winds from the Gulf of Mexico will cause headwinds for eastbound riders. Be aware that hurricanes can occur from July through November along the Gulf Coast of the Florida panhandle and can also hit the Atlantic seaboard.   After climbing away from San Diego on the California coast and topping out at 3,800 feet, the desert appears. The route travels through the Yuha Desert and the below-sea-level, irrigated Imperial Valley, before splitting the Algodones Dunes Wilderness Area in half. In Arizona, the snowbirds abound as the route travels through Phoenix and its surrounding communities, and the copper-mining towns of Miami and Globe. The Boyce Thompson Arboretum State Park east of Superior and the Besh Ba Gowah Archeological Park in Globe are attractions not to be missed. You'll be riding through dry, sparsely populated ranch country where every town will be a welcome sight and a chance to top off your water bottles. New Mexico offers Silver City for the latte drinkers, along with the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument, some of the best preserved Mogollon cliff dwellings around.   The ride along the Rio Grande into El Paso, Texas, is a treat for bird lovers, especially during migration season, when the birds are flying north or south. Texas dominates this route, taking up an entire third of the mileage. Starting in El Paso, just across the Rio Grande River from Juarez, Mexico, the route follows the river southward before turning east and heading through the Davis Mountains, where some of the friendliest folks on the whole route reside. You'll pass the McDonald Observatory atop 6,800-foot Mt. Locke. There's a visitor center with daily tours, and evening "Star Parties" three days per week. After the Davis Mountains, towns are few and the country desolate, full of sagebrush and tumbling tumbleweeds. As you travel through central Texas, the terrain starts to feel like the Alps, but this is actually the famous "hill country." This diverse area serves some great barbeque and is the training ground for Lance Armstrong, seven-time Tour de France winner. If you take the alternate route through Austin, make sure you go hear some of the diverse music available at the nightclubs on Sixth Street.   Louisiana is like no other state in the United States due to its history, language, culture, and food. First of all, they have parishes instead of counties. Traveling right through the middle of Cajun country, in places like Mamou, a stop in a cafe is a trip unto itself. The crowd is speaking English, but you can't understand the words. Try to hear some lively Cajun music if you have the time. Mississippi offers rural riding all the way into Alabama, where the route crosses a bridge to Dauphin Island. From there it's a ferry ride across Mobile Bay to Gulf Shores and some of the whitest beaches in the world. If the ferry is closed due to inclement weather, you will have to take the alternate route through Mobile.   The scenery varies greatly across Florida, from the historic coastal city of Pensacola to the alligator-filled waters of the area around Palatka. The route ends in St. Augustine, a city full of interesting buildings and the Castillo de San Marcos, a fort that has guarded the city's waterfront for over three centuries.   Terrain   The route offers challenging terrain right from the start, with some longer climbs leaving San Diego all the way up to In-ko-pah Pass, about 70 miles east of the Pacific coast. There are two mountain passes in New Mexico, the highest being Emory Pass at 8,228 feet, which is also the route's highest point. The route just north of Silver City, New Mexico, which goes to the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument, offers some steep, challenging, rolling mountains, as does the hill country west of Austin, Texas. East of Austin the route flattens out as it meanders through piney woods, by bayous, along farmlands and woodlots, and past the Gulf Coast all the way to the Atlantic Ocean.   Logistics   Isolated stretches, especially in the western states of California, Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas are not uncommon. Services are infrequent and can dictate long miles on some days. The 144-mile stretch from Marathon to Comstock, Texas, calls for specific planning and carrying of food and water. Bike shops are not as plentiful as one would like, and there are none for the 450 miles between El Paso and Del Rio, Texas. There are also none between Bastrop, Texas, and Orange Beach, Alabama (870 miles), unless you go off route into Baton Rouge, Louisiana, or Mobile, Alabama.   PLEASE REMEMBER TO CHECK FOR UPDATED ADDENDA BEFORE STARTING A TRIP!       http://www.cyclocamping.com/proddetail.asp?prod=GOTBC-1702 http://www.cyclocamping.com/proddetail.asp?prod=GOTBC-1702 http://www.cyclocamping.com/prodimages/small/GOTBC-1702-1.jpg     Map Features      Adventure Cycling Association developed the best cross-country, loop, coastal and inland cycling routes available, with turn-by-turn directions, detailed navigational instructions for the tricky sections, and elevation profiles in the high country. The maps are also waterproof and sized to fit in a handlebar-bag window or jersey pocket.   ADVENTURE CYCLE MAP INCLUDE:   Service symbols indicating the locations of campgrounds, hostels, motels, gas stations, groceries, restaurants, post offices, and bike shops Narratives with turn-by-turn instructions for traveling in either direction Distances given in miles and kilometers Contour lines providing a general idea of elevation gains and losses Elevation profiles in mountainous regions with major ascents and descents indicated Details about the natural history and cultural heritage along the route A weather chart providing average monthly rainfall and mean temperatures at various points along the route Large-scale detail maps of urban or congested areas Summaries of riding conditions to provide information on road surfaces, traffic volumes, and areas of caution Our Online Addenda, where updates are always available and current These routes are available to you in 300 to 400-mile map sections, so you can plan anything from a weekend trip to a multi-month adventure. Our routes feature the backroads of America where you can experience the communities and rural landscapes that make our country unique. We want you to see a rural America that can't be seen from the freeways. Our generous members and supporters are helping to create and maintain our legacy and gift to the nation -- the Adventure Cycling Route Network.     THE FINER DETAILS OF ADVENTURE CYCLING MAPS   Adventure Cycling Association maps are divided in a dozen 40-60 miles sections (1/2 a day to 1 day biking), this is an example of one of those section:     Bi-directional Narratives: Narratives have detailed turn-by-turn instructions for traveling in either direction. The number preceding each directive indicates the distance you've come since the beginning of the map panel at the matchline. (The number following in parentheses is the distance in kilometers.) Changes in road names and numbers are marked by stars both in the narrative and on the map panel.     Locator Box: The locator box gives an idea of your progress on the map section. For an overview of the route, the Index Map shows a larger scale version of the route's location.     Matchlines: Matchlines are solid pink lines on each end of the map panel intersecting the route. The narrative leads you from matchline to matchline. Once you "reach" the matchline, turn to the next map panel and begin following its narrative, again proceeding from the near matchline to the far matchline.     Service Symbols: Symbols correspond with the service information on the text side of the map, and tell bicyclists what sort of services they will encounter along the route. These include campgrounds, bike shops, grocery stores, libraries, restaurants, post offices, hostels, motels, bed and breakfasts, and hotels.     Elevation Profiles: Elevation profiles indicate major ascents and descents. On the Lewis & Clark Trail maps (as shown here), the profile is attached to each map panel. On other maps, in the mountainous regions of the country, the profile appears in one continuous panel on the text side of the map. (Not all map sections have elevation profiles.)     North Arrow: The north arrow is not necessarily up as it is on most maps, and it changes orientation from panel to panel. This allows as many miles of the route as possible to be depicted on each map panel.     End Mileages: The mileage to either end of the route section is shown at the border of each map panel.     Annual Events and Points of Interest: For your information, selected museums, points of interest, and events are included, where space allows, on the map panels. Museums have a brief description of their exhibits. Annual events have a brief description and the time of year they occur.         Southern Tier Route   San Diego, CA, to St. Augustine, FL - 7 map set (3,092.5 mi.)         FASCINATING LANDSCAPES AND DIVERSE CULTURES The Southern Tier Route can be ridden between early fall and late spring. In September and May, there still might be some very hot weather to contend with at either end of the route. Note that snow can occur at any time in the higher elevations in the Southwest during the winter, and the highest pass in New Mexico is over 8,000 feet. If you are doing a winter trip, remember that you will have short daylight hours. Due to changing local conditions, it is difficult to predict any major wind patterns, but here are a few known observations. In California, dry easterly winds predominate in the fall, blowing west from the desert. In western Texas, winds from the Gulf of Mexico will cause headwinds for eastbound riders. Be aware that hurricanes can occur from July through November along the Gulf Coast of the Florida panhandle and can also hit the Atlantic seaboard.   After climbing away from San Diego on the California coast and topping out at 3,800 feet, the desert appears. The route travels through the Yuha Desert and the below-sea-level, irrigated Imperial Valley, before splitting the Algodones Dunes Wilderness Area in half. In Arizona, the snowbirds abound as the route travels through Phoenix and its surrounding communities, and the copper-mining towns of Miami and Globe. The Boyce Thompson Arboretum State Park east of Superior and the Besh Ba Gowah Archeological Park in Globe are attractions not to be missed. You'll be riding through dry, sparsely populated ranch country where every town will be a welcome sight and a chance to top off your water bottles. New Mexico offers Silver City for the latte drinkers, along with the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument, some of the best preserved Mogollon cliff dwellings around.   The ride along the Rio Grande into El Paso, Texas, is a treat for bird lovers, especially during migration season, when the birds are flying north or south. Texas dominates this route, taking up an entire third of the mileage. Starting in El Paso, just across the Rio Grande River from Juarez, Mexico, the route follows the river southward before turning east and heading through the Davis Mountains, where some of the friendliest folks on the whole route reside. You'll pass the McDonald Observatory atop 6,800-foot Mt. Locke. There's a visitor center with daily tours, and evening "Star Parties" three days per week. After the Davis Mountains, towns are few and the country desolate, full of sagebrush and tumbling tumbleweeds. As you travel through central Texas, the terrain starts to feel like the Alps, but this is actually the famous "hill country." This diverse area serves some great barbeque and is the training ground for Lance Armstrong, seven-time Tour de France winner. If you take the alternate route through Austin, make sure you go hear some of the diverse music available at the nightclubs on Sixth Street.   Louisiana is like no other state in the United States due to its history, language, culture, and food. First of all, they have parishes instead of counties. Traveling right through the middle of Cajun country, in places like Mamou, a stop in a cafe is a trip unto itself. The crowd is speaking English, but you can't understand the words. Try to hear some lively Cajun music if you have the time. Mississippi offers rural riding all the way into Alabama, where the route crosses a bridge to Dauphin Island. From there it's a ferry ride across Mobile Bay to Gulf Shores and some of the whitest beaches in the world. If the ferry is closed due to inclement weather, you will have to take the alternate route through Mobile.   The scenery varies greatly across Florida, from the historic coastal city of Pensacola to the alligator-filled waters of the area around Palatka. The route ends in St. Augustine, a city full of interesting buildings and the Castillo de San Marcos, a fort that has guarded the city's waterfront for over three centuries.   Terrain   The route offers challenging terrain right from the start, with some longer climbs leaving San Diego all the way up to In-ko-pah Pass, about 70 miles east of the Pacific coast. There are two mountain passes in New Mexico, the highest being Emory Pass at 8,228 feet, which is also the route's highest point. The route just north of Silver City, New Mexico, which goes to the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument, offers some steep, challenging, rolling mountains, as does the hill country west of Austin, Texas. East of Austin the route flattens out as it meanders through piney woods, by bayous, along farmlands and woodlots, and past the Gulf Coast all the way to the Atlantic Ocean.   Logistics   Isolated stretches, especially in the western states of California, Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas are not uncommon. Services are infrequent and can dictate long miles on some days. The 144-mile stretch from Marathon to Comstock, Texas, calls for specific planning and carrying of food and water. Bike shops are not as plentiful as one would like, and there are none for the 450 miles between El Paso and Del Rio, Texas. There are also none between Bastrop, Texas, and Orange Beach, Alabama (870 miles), unless you go off route into Baton Rouge, Louisiana, or Mobile, Alabama.   PLEASE REMEMBER TO CHECK FOR UPDATED ADDENDA BEFORE STARTING A TRIP!       http://www.cyclocamping.com/proddetail.asp?prod=GOTBC-1703 http://www.cyclocamping.com/proddetail.asp?prod=GOTBC-1703 http://www.cyclocamping.com/prodimages/small/GOTBC-1703-1.jpg     Map Features      Adventure Cycling Association developed the best cross-country, loop, coastal and inland cycling routes available, with turn-by-turn directions, detailed navigational instructions for the tricky sections, and elevation profiles in the high country. The maps are also waterproof and sized to fit in a handlebar-bag window or jersey pocket.   ADVENTURE CYCLE MAP INCLUDE:   Service symbols indicating the locations of campgrounds, hostels, motels, gas stations, groceries, restaurants, post offices, and bike shops Narratives with turn-by-turn instructions for traveling in either direction Distances given in miles and kilometers Contour lines providing a general idea of elevation gains and losses Elevation profiles in mountainous regions with major ascents and descents indicated Details about the natural history and cultural heritage along the route A weather chart providing average monthly rainfall and mean temperatures at various points along the route Large-scale detail maps of urban or congested areas Summaries of riding conditions to provide information on road surfaces, traffic volumes, and areas of caution Our Online Addenda, where updates are always available and current These routes are available to you in 300 to 400-mile map sections, so you can plan anything from a weekend trip to a multi-month adventure. Our routes feature the backroads of America where you can experience the communities and rural landscapes that make our country unique. We want you to see a rural America that can't be seen from the freeways. Our generous members and supporters are helping to create and maintain our legacy and gift to the nation -- the Adventure Cycling Route Network.     THE FINER DETAILS OF ADVENTURE CYCLING MAPS   Adventure Cycling Association maps are divided in a dozen 40-60 miles sections (1/2 a day to 1 day biking), this is an example of one of those section:     Bi-directional Narratives: Narratives have detailed turn-by-turn instructions for traveling in either direction. The number preceding each directive indicates the distance you've come since the beginning of the map panel at the matchline. (The number following in parentheses is the distance in kilometers.) Changes in road names and numbers are marked by stars both in the narrative and on the map panel.     Locator Box: The locator box gives an idea of your progress on the map section. For an overview of the route, the Index Map shows a larger scale version of the route's location.     Matchlines: Matchlines are solid pink lines on each end of the map panel intersecting the route. The narrative leads you from matchline to matchline. Once you "reach" the matchline, turn to the next map panel and begin following its narrative, again proceeding from the near matchline to the far matchline.     Service Symbols: Symbols correspond with the service information on the text side of the map, and tell bicyclists what sort of services they will encounter along the route. These include campgrounds, bike shops, grocery stores, libraries, restaurants, post offices, hostels, motels, bed and breakfasts, and hotels.     Elevation Profiles: Elevation profiles indicate major ascents and descents. On the Lewis & Clark Trail maps (as shown here), the profile is attached to each map panel. On other maps, in the mountainous regions of the country, the profile appears in one continuous panel on the text side of the map. (Not all map sections have elevation profiles.)     North Arrow: The north arrow is not necessarily up as it is on most maps, and it changes orientation from panel to panel. This allows as many miles of the route as possible to be depicted on each map panel.     End Mileages: The mileage to either end of the route section is shown at the border of each map panel.     Annual Events and Points of Interest: For your information, selected museums, points of interest, and events are included, where space allows, on the map panels. Museums have a brief description of their exhibits. Annual events have a brief description and the time of year they occur.         Southern Tier Route    San Diego, CA, to St. Augustine, FL - 7 map set (3,092.5 mi.)         FASCINATING LANDSCAPES AND DIVERSE CULTURES The Southern Tier Route can be ridden between early fall and late spring. In September and May, there still might be some very hot weather to contend with at either end of the route. Note that snow can occur at any time in the higher elevations in the Southwest during the winter, and the highest pass in New Mexico is over 8,000 feet. If you are doing a winter trip, remember that you will have short daylight hours. Due to changing local conditions, it is difficult to predict any major wind patterns, but here are a few known observations. In California, dry easterly winds predominate in the fall, blowing west from the desert. In western Texas, winds from the Gulf of Mexico will cause headwinds for eastbound riders. Be aware that hurricanes can occur from July through November along the Gulf Coast of the Florida panhandle and can also hit the Atlantic seaboard.   After climbing away from San Diego on the California coast and topping out at 3,800 feet, the desert appears. The route travels through the Yuha Desert and the below-sea-level, irrigated Imperial Valley, before splitting the Algodones Dunes Wilderness Area in half. In Arizona, the snowbirds abound as the route travels through Phoenix and its surrounding communities, and the copper-mining towns of Miami and Globe. The Boyce Thompson Arboretum State Park east of Superior and the Besh Ba Gowah Archeological Park in Globe are attractions not to be missed. You'll be riding through dry, sparsely populated ranch country where every town will be a welcome sight and a chance to top off your water bottles. New Mexico offers Silver City for the latte drinkers, along with the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument, some of the best preserved Mogollon cliff dwellings around.   The ride along the Rio Grande into El Paso, Texas, is a treat for bird lovers, especially during migration season, when the birds are flying north or south. Texas dominates this route, taking up an entire third of the mileage. Starting in El Paso, just across the Rio Grande River from Juarez, Mexico, the route follows the river southward before turning east and heading through the Davis Mountains, where some of the friendliest folks on the whole route reside. You'll pass the McDonald Observatory atop 6,800-foot Mt. Locke. There's a visitor center with daily tours, and evening "Star Parties" three days per week. After the Davis Mountains, towns are few and the country desolate, full of sagebrush and tumbling tumbleweeds. As you travel through central Texas, the terrain starts to feel like the Alps, but this is actually the famous "hill country." This diverse area serves some great barbeque and is the training ground for Lance Armstrong, seven-time Tour de France winner. If you take the alternate route through Austin, make sure you go hear some of the diverse music available at the nightclubs on Sixth Street.   Louisiana is like no other state in the United States due to its history, language, culture, and food. First of all, they have parishes instead of counties. Traveling right through the middle of Cajun country, in places like Mamou, a stop in a cafe is a trip unto itself. The crowd is speaking English, but you can't understand the words. Try to hear some lively Cajun music if you have the time. Mississippi offers rural riding all the way into Alabama, where the route crosses a bridge to Dauphin Island. From there it's a ferry ride across Mobile Bay to Gulf Shores and some of the whitest beaches in the world. If the ferry is closed due to inclement weather, you will have to take the alternate route through Mobile.   The scenery varies greatly across Florida, from the historic coastal city of Pensacola to the alligator-filled waters of the area around Palatka. The route ends in St. Augustine, a city full of interesting buildings and the Castillo de San Marcos, a fort that has guarded the city's waterfront for over three centuries.   Terrain   The route offers challenging terrain right from the start, with some longer climbs leaving San Diego all the way up to In-ko-pah Pass, about 70 miles east of the Pacific coast. There are two mountain passes in New Mexico, the highest being Emory Pass at 8,228 feet, which is also the route's highest point. The route just north of Silver City, New Mexico, which goes to the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument, offers some steep, challenging, rolling mountains, as does the hill country west of Austin, Texas. East of Austin the route flattens out as it meanders through piney woods, by bayous, along farmlands and woodlots, and past the Gulf Coast all the way to the Atlantic Ocean.   Logistics   Isolated stretches, especially in the western states of California, Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas are not uncommon. Services are infrequent and can dictate long miles on some days. The 144-mile stretch from Marathon to Comstock, Texas, calls for specific planning and carrying of food and water. Bike shops are not as plentiful as one would like, and there are none for the 450 miles between El Paso and Del Rio, Texas. There are also none between Bastrop, Texas, and Orange Beach, Alabama (870 miles), unless you go off route into Baton Rouge, Louisiana, or Mobile, Alabama.   PLEASE REMEMBER TO CHECK FOR UPDATED ADDENDA BEFORE STARTING A TRIP!       http://www.cyclocamping.com/proddetail.asp?prod=GOTBC-1704 http://www.cyclocamping.com/proddetail.asp?prod=GOTBC-1704 http://www.cyclocamping.com/prodimages/small/GOTBC-1704-1.jpg     Map Features      Adventure Cycling Association developed the best cross-country, loop, coastal and inland cycling routes available, with turn-by-turn directions, detailed navigational instructions for the tricky sections, and elevation profiles in the high country. The maps are also waterproof and sized to fit in a handlebar-bag window or jersey pocket.   ADVENTURE CYCLE MAP INCLUDE:   Service symbols indicating the locations of campgrounds, hostels, motels, gas stations, groceries, restaurants, post offices, and bike shops Narratives with turn-by-turn instructions for traveling in either direction Distances given in miles and kilometers Contour lines providing a general idea of elevation gains and losses Elevation profiles in mountainous regions with major ascents and descents indicated Details about the natural history and cultural heritage along the route A weather chart providing average monthly rainfall and mean temperatures at various points along the route Large-scale detail maps of urban or congested areas Summaries of riding conditions to provide information on road surfaces, traffic volumes, and areas of caution Our Online Addenda, where updates are always available and current These routes are available to you in 300 to 400-mile map sections, so you can plan anything from a weekend trip to a multi-month adventure. Our routes feature the backroads of America where you can experience the communities and rural landscapes that make our country unique. We want you to see a rural America that can't be seen from the freeways. Our generous members and supporters are helping to create and maintain our legacy and gift to the nation -- the Adventure Cycling Route Network.     THE FINER DETAILS OF ADVENTURE CYCLING MAPS   Adventure Cycling Association maps are divided in a dozen 40-60 miles sections (1/2 a day to 1 day biking), this is an example of one of those section:     Bi-directional Narratives: Narratives have detailed turn-by-turn instructions for traveling in either direction. The number preceding each directive indicates the distance you've come since the beginning of the map panel at the matchline. (The number following in parentheses is the distance in kilometers.) Changes in road names and numbers are marked by stars both in the narrative and on the map panel.     Locator Box: The locator box gives an idea of your progress on the map section. For an overview of the route, the Index Map shows a larger scale version of the route's location.     Matchlines: Matchlines are solid pink lines on each end of the map panel intersecting the route. The narrative leads you from matchline to matchline. Once you "reach" the matchline, turn to the next map panel and begin following its narrative, again proceeding from the near matchline to the far matchline.     Service Symbols: Symbols correspond with the service information on the text side of the map, and tell bicyclists what sort of services they will encounter along the route. These include campgrounds, bike shops, grocery stores, libraries, restaurants, post offices, hostels, motels, bed and breakfasts, and hotels.     Elevation Profiles: Elevation profiles indicate major ascents and descents. On the Lewis & Clark Trail maps (as shown here), the profile is attached to each map panel. On other maps, in the mountainous regions of the country, the profile appears in one continuous panel on the text side of the map. (Not all map sections have elevation profiles.)     North Arrow: The north arrow is not necessarily up as it is on most maps, and it changes orientation from panel to panel. This allows as many miles of the route as possible to be depicted on each map panel.     End Mileages: The mileage to either end of the route section is shown at the border of each map panel.     Annual Events and Points of Interest: For your information, selected museums, points of interest, and events are included, where space allows, on the map panels. Museums have a brief description of their exhibits. Annual events have a brief description and the time of year they occur.         Southern Tier Route   San Diego, CA, to St. Augustine, FL - 7 map set (3,092.5 mi.)     FASCINATING LANDSCAPES AND DIVERSE CULTURES The Southern Tier Route can be ridden between early fall and late spring. In September and May, there still might be some very hot weather to contend with at either end of the route. Note that snow can occur at any time in the higher elevations in the Southwest during the winter, and the highest pass in New Mexico is over 8,000 feet. If you are doing a winter trip, remember that you will have short daylight hours. Due to changing local conditions, it is difficult to predict any major wind patterns, but here are a few known observations. In California, dry easterly winds predominate in the fall, blowing west from the desert. In western Texas, winds from the Gulf of Mexico will cause headwinds for eastbound riders. Be aware that hurricanes can occur from July through November along the Gulf Coast of the Florida panhandle and can also hit the Atlantic seaboard.   After climbing away from San Diego on the California coast and topping out at 3,800 feet, the desert appears. The route travels through the Yuha Desert and the below-sea-level, irrigated Imperial Valley, before splitting the Algodones Dunes Wilderness Area in half. In Arizona, the snowbirds abound as the route travels through Phoenix and its surrounding communities, and the copper-mining towns of Miami and Globe. The Boyce Thompson Arboretum State Park east of Superior and the Besh Ba Gowah Archeological Park in Globe are attractions not to be missed. You'll be riding through dry, sparsely populated ranch country where every town will be a welcome sight and a chance to top off your water bottles. New Mexico offers Silver City for the latte drinkers, along with the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument, some of the best preserved Mogollon cliff dwellings around.   The ride along the Rio Grande into El Paso, Texas, is a treat for bird lovers, especially during migration season, when the birds are flying north or south. Texas dominates this route, taking up an entire third of the mileage. Starting in El Paso, just across the Rio Grande River from Juarez, Mexico, the route follows the river southward before turning east and heading through the Davis Mountains, where some of the friendliest folks on the whole route reside. You'll pass the McDonald Observatory atop 6,800-foot Mt. Locke. There's a visitor center with daily tours, and evening "Star Parties" three days per week. After the Davis Mountains, towns are few and the country desolate, full of sagebrush and tumbling tumbleweeds. As you travel through central Texas, the terrain starts to feel like the Alps, but this is actually the famous "hill country." This diverse area serves some great barbeque and is the training ground for Lance Armstrong, seven-time Tour de France winner. If you take the alternate route through Austin, make sure you go hear some of the diverse music available at the nightclubs on Sixth Street.   Louisiana is like no other state in the United States due to its history, language, culture, and food. First of all, they have parishes instead of counties. Traveling right through the middle of Cajun country, in places like Mamou, a stop in a cafe is a trip unto itself. The crowd is speaking English, but you can't understand the words. Try to hear some lively Cajun music if you have the time. Mississippi offers rural riding all the way into Alabama, where the route crosses a bridge to Dauphin Island. From there it's a ferry ride across Mobile Bay to Gulf Shores and some of the whitest beaches in the world. If the ferry is closed due to inclement weather, you will have to take the alternate route through Mobile.   The scenery varies greatly across Florida, from the historic coastal city of Pensacola to the alligator-filled waters of the area around Palatka. The route ends in St. Augustine, a city full of interesting buildings and the Castillo de San Marcos, a fort that has guarded the city's waterfront for over three centuries.   Terrain   The route offers challenging terrain right from the start, with some longer climbs leaving San Diego all the way up to In-ko-pah Pass, about 70 miles east of the Pacific coast. There are two mountain passes in New Mexico, the highest being Emory Pass at 8,228 feet, which is also the route's highest point. The route just north of Silver City, New Mexico, which goes to the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument, offers some steep, challenging, rolling mountains, as does the hill country west of Austin, Texas. East of Austin the route flattens out as it meanders through piney woods, by bayous, along farmlands and woodlots, and past the Gulf Coast all the way to the Atlantic Ocean.   Logistics   Isolated stretches, especially in the western states of California, Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas are not uncommon. Services are infrequent and can dictate long miles on some days. The 144-mile stretch from Marathon to Comstock, Texas, calls for specific planning and carrying of food and water. Bike shops are not as plentiful as one would like, and there are none for the 450 miles between El Paso and Del Rio, Texas. There are also none between Bastrop, Texas, and Orange Beach, Alabama (870 miles), unless you go off route into Baton Rouge, Louisiana, or Mobile, Alabama.   PLEASE REMEMBER TO CHECK FOR UPDATED ADDENDA BEFORE STARTING A TRIP!       http://www.cyclocamping.com/proddetail.asp?prod=GOTBC-1705 http://www.cyclocamping.com/proddetail.asp?prod=GOTBC-1705 http://www.cyclocamping.com/prodimages/small/GOTBC-1705-1.jpg     Map Features      Adventure Cycling Association developed the best cross-country, loop, coastal and inland cycling routes available, with turn-by-turn directions, detailed navigational instructions for the tricky sections, and elevation profiles in the high country. The maps are also waterproof and sized to fit in a handlebar-bag window or jersey pocket.   ADVENTURE CYCLE MAP INCLUDE:   Service symbols indicating the locations of campgrounds, hostels, motels, gas stations, groceries, restaurants, post offices, and bike shops Narratives with turn-by-turn instructions for traveling in either direction Distances given in miles and kilometers Contour lines providing a general idea of elevation gains and losses Elevation profiles in mountainous regions with major ascents and descents indicated Details about the natural history and cultural heritage along the route A weather chart providing average monthly rainfall and mean temperatures at various points along the route Large-scale detail maps of urban or congested areas Summaries of riding conditions to provide information on road surfaces, traffic volumes, and areas of caution Our Online Addenda, where updates are always available and current These routes are available to you in 300 to 400-mile map sections, so you can plan anything from a weekend trip to a multi-month adventure. Our routes feature the backroads of America where you can experience the communities and rural landscapes that make our country unique. We want you to see a rural America that can't be seen from the freeways. Our generous members and supporters are helping to create and maintain our legacy and gift to the nation -- the Adventure Cycling Route Network.     THE FINER DETAILS OF ADVENTURE CYCLING MAPS   Adventure Cycling Association maps are divided in a dozen 40-60 miles sections (1/2 a day to 1 day biking), this is an example of one of those section:     Bi-directional Narratives: Narratives have detailed turn-by-turn instructions for traveling in either direction. The number preceding each directive indicates the distance you've come since the beginning of the map panel at the matchline. (The number following in parentheses is the distance in kilometers.) Changes in road names and numbers are marked by stars both in the narrative and on the map panel.     Locator Box: The locator box gives an idea of your progress on the map section. For an overview of the route, the Index Map shows a larger scale version of the route's location.     Matchlines: Matchlines are solid pink lines on each end of the map panel intersecting the route. The narrative leads you from matchline to matchline. Once you "reach" the matchline, turn to the next map panel and begin following its narrative, again proceeding from the near matchline to the far matchline.     Service Symbols: Symbols correspond with the service information on the text side of the map, and tell bicyclists what sort of services they will encounter along the route. These include campgrounds, bike shops, grocery stores, libraries, restaurants, post offices, hostels, motels, bed and breakfasts, and hotels.     Elevation Profiles: Elevation profiles indicate major ascents and descents. On the Lewis & Clark Trail maps (as shown here), the profile is attached to each map panel. On other maps, in the mountainous regions of the country, the profile appears in one continuous panel on the text side of the map. (Not all map sections have elevation profiles.)     North Arrow: The north arrow is not necessarily up as it is on most maps, and it changes orientation from panel to panel. This allows as many miles of the route as possible to be depicted on each map panel.     End Mileages: The mileage to either end of the route section is shown at the border of each map panel.     Annual Events and Points of Interest: For your information, selected museums, points of interest, and events are included, where space allows, on the map panels. Museums have a brief description of their exhibits. Annual events have a brief description and the time of year they occur.         Southern Tier Route   San Diego, CA, to St. Augustine, FL- 7 map set (3,092.5 mi.)     FASCINATING LANDSCAPES AND DIVERSE CULTURES The Southern Tier Route can be ridden between early fall and late spring. In September and May, there still might be some very hot weather to contend with at either end of the route. Note that snow can occur at any time in the higher elevations in the Southwest during the winter, and the highest pass in New Mexico is over 8,000 feet. If you are doing a winter trip, remember that you will have short daylight hours. Due to changing local conditions, it is difficult to predict any major wind patterns, but here are a few known observations. In California, dry easterly winds predominate in the fall, blowing west from the desert. In western Texas, winds from the Gulf of Mexico will cause headwinds for eastbound riders. Be aware that hurricanes can occur from July through November along the Gulf Coast of the Florida panhandle and can also hit the Atlantic seaboard.   After climbing away from San Diego on the California coast and topping out at 3,800 feet, the desert appears. The route travels through the Yuha Desert and the below-sea-level, irrigated Imperial Valley, before splitting the Algodones Dunes Wilderness Area in half. In Arizona, the snowbirds abound as the route travels through Phoenix and its surrounding communities, and the copper-mining towns of Miami and Globe. The Boyce Thompson Arboretum State Park east of Superior and the Besh Ba Gowah Archeological Park in Globe are attractions not to be missed. You'll be riding through dry, sparsely populated ranch country where every town will be a welcome sight and a chance to top off your water bottles. New Mexico offers Silver City for the latte drinkers, along with the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument, some of the best preserved Mogollon cliff dwellings around.   The ride along the Rio Grande into El Paso, Texas, is a treat for bird lovers, especially during migration season, when the birds are flying north or south. Texas dominates this route, taking up an entire third of the mileage. Starting in El Paso, just across the Rio Grande River from Juarez, Mexico, the route follows the river southward before turning east and heading through the Davis Mountains, where some of the friendliest folks on the whole route reside. You'll pass the McDonald Observatory atop 6,800-foot Mt. Locke. There's a visitor center with daily tours, and evening "Star Parties" three days per week. After the Davis Mountains, towns are few and the country desolate, full of sagebrush and tumbling tumbleweeds. As you travel through central Texas, the terrain starts to feel like the Alps, but this is actually the famous "hill country." This diverse area serves some great barbeque and is the training ground for Lance Armstrong, seven-time Tour de France winner. If you take the alternate route through Austin, make sure you go hear some of the diverse music available at the nightclubs on Sixth Street.   Louisiana is like no other state in the United States due to its history, language, culture, and food. First of all, they have parishes instead of counties. Traveling right through the middle of Cajun country, in places like Mamou, a stop in a cafe is a trip unto itself. The crowd is speaking English, but you can't understand the words. Try to hear some lively Cajun music if you have the time. Mississippi offers rural riding all the way into Alabama, where the route crosses a bridge to Dauphin Island. From there it's a ferry ride across Mobile Bay to Gulf Shores and some of the whitest beaches in the world. If the ferry is closed due to inclement weather, you will have to take the alternate route through Mobile.   The scenery varies greatly across Florida, from the historic coastal city of Pensacola to the alligator-filled waters of the area around Palatka. The route ends in St. Augustine, a city full of interesting buildings and the Castillo de San Marcos, a fort that has guarded the city's waterfront for over three centuries.   Terrain   The route offers challenging terrain right from the start, with some longer climbs leaving San Diego all the way up to In-ko-pah Pass, about 70 miles east of the Pacific coast. There are two mountain passes in New Mexico, the highest being Emory Pass at 8,228 feet, which is also the route's highest point. The route just north of Silver City, New Mexico, which goes to the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument, offers some steep, challenging, rolling mountains, as does the hill country west of Austin, Texas. East of Austin the route flattens out as it meanders through piney woods, by bayous, along farmlands and woodlots, and past the Gulf Coast all the way to the Atlantic Ocean.   Logistics   Isolated stretches, especially in the western states of California, Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas are not uncommon. Services are infrequent and can dictate long miles on some days. The 144-mile stretch from Marathon to Comstock, Texas, calls for specific planning and carrying of food and water. Bike shops are not as plentiful as one would like, and there are none for the 450 miles between El Paso and Del Rio, Texas. There are also none between Bastrop, Texas, and Orange Beach, Alabama (870 miles), unless you go off route into Baton Rouge, Louisiana, or Mobile, Alabama.   PLEASE REMEMBER TO CHECK FOR UPDATED ADDENDA BEFORE STARTING A TRIP!       http://www.cyclocamping.com/proddetail.asp?prod=GOTBC-1706 http://www.cyclocamping.com/proddetail.asp?prod=GOTBC-1706 http://www.cyclocamping.com/prodimages/small/GOTBC-1706-1.jpg     Map Features      Adventure Cycling Association developed the best cross-country, loop, coastal and inland cycling routes available, with turn-by-turn directions, detailed navigational instructions for the tricky sections, and elevation profiles in the high country. The maps are also waterproof and sized to fit in a handlebar-bag window or jersey pocket.   ADVENTURE CYCLE MAP INCLUDE:   Service symbols indicating the locations of campgrounds, hostels, motels, gas stations, groceries, restaurants, post offices, and bike shops Narratives with turn-by-turn instructions for traveling in either direction Distances given in miles and kilometers Contour lines providing a general idea of elevation gains and losses Elevation profiles in mountainous regions with major ascents and descents indicated Details about the natural history and cultural heritage along the route A weather chart providing average monthly rainfall and mean temperatures at various points along the route Large-scale detail maps of urban or congested areas Summaries of riding conditions to provide information on road surfaces, traffic volumes, and areas of caution Our Online Addenda, where updates are always available and current These routes are available to you in 300 to 400-mile map sections, so you can plan anything from a weekend trip to a multi-month adventure. Our routes feature the backroads of America where you can experience the communities and rural landscapes that make our country unique. We want you to see a rural America that can't be seen from the freeways. Our generous members and supporters are helping to create and maintain our legacy and gift to the nation -- the Adventure Cycling Route Network.     THE FINER DETAILS OF ADVENTURE CYCLING MAPS   Example of an Adventure Cycling Association map:     Bi-directional Narratives: Narratives have detailed turn-by-turn instructions for traveling in either direction. The number preceding each directive indicates the distance you've come since the beginning of the map panel at the matchline. (The number following in parentheses is the distance in kilometers.) Changes in road names and numbers are marked by stars both in the narrative and on the map panel.     Locator Box: The locator box gives an idea of your progress on the map section. For an overview of the route, the Index Map shows a larger scale version of the route's location.     Matchlines: Matchlines are solid pink lines on each end of the map panel intersecting the route. The narrative leads you from matchline to matchline. Once you "reach" the matchline, turn to the next map panel and begin following its narrative, again proceeding from the near matchline to the far matchline.     Service Symbols: Symbols correspond with the service information on the text side of the map, and tell bicyclists what sort of services they will encounter along the route. These include campgrounds, bike shops, grocery stores, libraries, restaurants, post offices, hostels, motels, bed and breakfasts, and hotels.     Elevation Profiles: Elevation profiles indicate major ascents and descents. On the Lewis & Clark Trail maps (as shown here), the profile is attached to each map panel. On other maps, in the mountainous regions of the country, the profile appears in one continuous panel on the text side of the map. (Not all map sections have elevation profiles.)     North Arrow: The north arrow is not necessarily up as it is on most maps, and it changes orientation from panel to panel. This allows as many miles of the route as possible to be depicted on each map panel.     End Mileages: The mileage to either end of the route section is shown at the border of each map panel.     Annual Events and Points of Interest: For your information, selected museums, points of interest, and events are included, where space allows, on the map panels. Museums have a brief description of their exhibits. Annual events have a brief description and the time of year they occur.         Southern Tier Route   San Diego, CA, to St. Augustine, FL - 7 map set (3,092.5 mi.)     FASCINATING LANDSCAPES AND DIVERSE CULTURES The Southern Tier Route can be ridden between early fall and late spring. In September and May, there still might be some very hot weather to contend with at either end of the route. Note that snow can occur at any time in the higher elevations in the Southwest during the winter, and the highest pass in New Mexico is over 8,000 feet. If you are doing a winter trip, remember that you will have short daylight hours. Due to changing local conditions, it is difficult to predict any major wind patterns, but here are a few known observations. In California, dry easterly winds predominate in the fall, blowing west from the desert. In western Texas, winds from the Gulf of Mexico will cause headwinds for eastbound riders. Be aware that hurricanes can occur from July through November along the Gulf Coast of the Florida panhandle and can also hit the Atlantic seaboard.   After climbing away from San Diego on the California coast and topping out at 3,800 feet, the desert appears. The route travels through the Yuha Desert and the below-sea-level, irrigated Imperial Valley, before splitting the Algodones Dunes Wilderness Area in half. In Arizona, the snowbirds abound as the route travels through Phoenix and its surrounding communities, and the copper-mining towns of Miami and Globe. The Boyce Thompson Arboretum State Park east of Superior and the Besh Ba Gowah Archeological Park in Globe are attractions not to be missed. You'll be riding through dry, sparsely populated ranch country where every town will be a welcome sight and a chance to top off your water bottles. New Mexico offers Silver City for the latte drinkers, along with the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument, some of the best preserved Mogollon cliff dwellings around.   The ride along the Rio Grande into El Paso, Texas, is a treat for bird lovers, especially during migration season, when the birds are flying north or south. Texas dominates this route, taking up an entire third of the mileage. Starting in El Paso, just across the Rio Grande River from Juarez, Mexico, the route follows the river southward before turning east and heading through the Davis Mountains, where some of the friendliest folks on the whole route reside. You'll pass the McDonald Observatory atop 6,800-foot Mt. Locke. There's a visitor center with daily tours, and evening "Star Parties" three days per week. After the Davis Mountains, towns are few and the country desolate, full of sagebrush and tumbling tumbleweeds. As you travel through central Texas, the terrain starts to feel like the Alps, but this is actually the famous "hill country." This diverse area serves some great barbeque and is the training ground for Lance Armstrong, seven-time Tour de France winner. If you take the alternate route through Austin, make sure you go hear some of the diverse music available at the nightclubs on Sixth Street.   Louisiana is like no other state in the United States due to its history, language, culture, and food. First of all, they have parishes instead of counties. Traveling right through the middle of Cajun country, in places like Mamou, a stop in a cafe is a trip unto itself. The crowd is speaking English, but you can't understand the words. Try to hear some lively Cajun music if you have the time. Mississippi offers rural riding all the way into Alabama, where the route crosses a bridge to Dauphin Island. From there it's a ferry ride across Mobile Bay to Gulf Shores and some of the whitest beaches in the world. If the ferry is closed due to inclement weather, you will have to take the alternate route through Mobile.   The scenery varies greatly across Florida, from the historic coastal city of Pensacola to the alligator-filled waters of the area around Palatka. The route ends in St. Augustine, a city full of interesting buildings and the Castillo de San Marcos, a fort that has guarded the city's waterfront for over three centuries.   Terrain   The route offers challenging terrain right from the start, with some longer climbs leaving San Diego all the way up to In-ko-pah Pass, about 70 miles east of the Pacific coast. There are two mountain passes in New Mexico, the highest being Emory Pass at 8,228 feet, which is also the route's highest point. The route just north of Silver City, New Mexico, which goes to the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument, offers some steep, challenging, rolling mountains, as does the hill country west of Austin, Texas. East of Austin the route flattens out as it meanders through piney woods, by bayous, along farmlands and woodlots, and past the Gulf Coast all the way to the Atlantic Ocean.   Logistics   Isolated stretches, especially in the western states of California, Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas are not uncommon. Services are infrequent and can dictate long miles on some days. The 144-mile stretch from Marathon to Comstock, Texas, calls for specific planning and carrying of food and water. Bike shops are not as plentiful as one would like, and there are none for the 450 miles between El Paso and Del Rio, Texas. There are also none between Bastrop, Texas, and Orange Beach, Alabama (870 miles), unless you go off route into Baton Rouge, Louisiana, or Mobile, Alabama.   PLEASE REMEMBER TO CHECK FOR UPDATED ADDENDA BEFORE STARTING A TRIP!       http://www.cyclocamping.com/proddetail.asp?prod=GOTBC-1707 http://www.cyclocamping.com/proddetail.asp?prod=GOTBC-1707 http://www.cyclocamping.com/prodimages/small/GOTBC-1707-1.jpg     Map Features      Adventure Cycling Association developed the best cross-country, loop, coastal and inland cycling routes available, with turn-by-turn directions, detailed navigational instructions for the tricky sections, and elevation profiles in the high country. The maps are also waterproof and sized to fit in a handlebar-bag window or jersey pocket.   ADVENTURE CYCLE MAP INCLUDE:   Service symbols indicating the locations of campgrounds, hostels, motels, gas stations, groceries, restaurants, post offices, and bike shops Narratives with turn-by-turn instructions for traveling in either direction Distances given in miles and kilometers Contour lines providing a general idea of elevation gains and losses Elevation profiles in mountainous regions with major ascents and descents indicated Details about the natural history and cultural heritage along the route A weather chart providing average monthly rainfall and mean temperatures at various points along the route Large-scale detail maps of urban or congested areas Summaries of riding conditions to provide information on road surfaces, traffic volumes, and areas of caution Our Online Addenda, where updates are always available and current These routes are available to you in 300 to 400-mile map sections, so you can plan anything from a weekend trip to a multi-month adventure. Our routes feature the backroads of America where you can experience the communities and rural landscapes that make our country unique. We want you to see a rural America that can't be seen from the freeways. Our generous members and supporters are helping to create and maintain our legacy and gift to the nation -- the Adventure Cycling Route Network.     THE FINER DETAILS OF ADVENTURE CYCLING MAPS   Adventure Cycling Association maps are divided in a dozen 40-60 miles sections (1/2 a day to 1 day biking), this is an example of one of those section:     Bi-directional Narratives: Narratives have detailed turn-by-turn instructions for traveling in either direction. The number preceding each directive indicates the distance you've come since the beginning of the map panel at the matchline. (The number following in parentheses is the distance in kilometers.) Changes in road names and numbers are marked by stars both in the narrative and on the map panel.     Locator Box: The locator box gives an idea of your progress on the map section. For an overview of the route, the Index Map shows a larger scale version of the route's location.     Matchlines: Matchlines are solid pink lines on each end of the map panel intersecting the route. The narrative leads you from matchline to matchline. Once you "reach" the matchline, turn to the next map panel and begin following its narrative, again proceeding from the near matchline to the far matchline.     Service Symbols: Symbols correspond with the service information on the text side of the map, and tell bicyclists what sort of services they will encounter along the route. These include campgrounds, bike shops, grocery stores, libraries, restaurants, post offices, hostels, motels, bed and breakfasts, and hotels.     Elevation Profiles: Elevation profiles indicate major ascents and descents. On the Lewis & Clark Trail maps (as shown here), the profile is attached to each map panel. On other maps, in the mountainous regions of the country, the profile appears in one continuous panel on the text side of the map. (Not all map sections have elevation profiles.)     North Arrow: The north arrow is not necessarily up as it is on most maps, and it changes orientation from panel to panel. This allows as many miles of the route as possible to be depicted on each map panel.     End Mileages: The mileage to either end of the route section is shown at the border of each map panel.     Annual Events and Points of Interest: For your information, selected museums, points of interest, and events are included, where space allows, on the map panels. Museums have a brief description of their exhibits. Annual events have a brief description and the time of year they occur.         Southern Tier Route San Diego, CA, to St. Augustine, FL - 7 map set (3,092.5 mi.)     FASCINATING LANDSCAPES AND DIVERSE CULTURES The Southern Tier Route can be ridden between early fall and late spring. In September and May, there still might be some very hot weather to contend with at either end of the route. Note that snow can occur at any time in the higher elevations in the Southwest during the winter, and the highest pass in New Mexico is over 8,000 feet. If you are doing a winter trip, remember that you will have short daylight hours. Due to changing local conditions, it is difficult to predict any major wind patterns, but here are a few known observations. In California, dry easterly winds predominate in the fall, blowing west from the desert. In western Texas, winds from the Gulf of Mexico will cause headwinds for eastbound riders. Be aware that hurricanes can occur from July through November along the Gulf Coast of the Florida panhandle and can also hit the Atlantic seaboard.   After climbing away from San Diego on the California coast and topping out at 3,800 feet, the desert appears. The route travels through the Yuha Desert and the below-sea-level, irrigated Imperial Valley, before splitting the Algodones Dunes Wilderness Area in half. In Arizona, the snowbirds abound as the route travels through Phoenix and its surrounding communities, and the copper-mining towns of Miami and Globe. The Boyce Thompson Arboretum State Park east of Superior and the Besh Ba Gowah Archeological Park in Globe are attractions not to be missed. You'll be riding through dry, sparsely populated ranch country where every town will be a welcome sight and a chance to top off your water bottles. New Mexico offers Silver City for the latte drinkers, along with the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument, some of the best preserved Mogollon cliff dwellings around.   The ride along the Rio Grande into El Paso, Texas, is a treat for bird lovers, especially during migration season, when the birds are flying north or south. Texas dominates this route, taking up an entire third of the mileage. Starting in El Paso, just across the Rio Grande River from Juarez, Mexico, the route follows the river southward before turning east and heading through the Davis Mountains, where some of the friendliest folks on the whole route reside. You'll pass the McDonald Observatory atop 6,800-foot Mt. Locke. There's a visitor center with daily tours, and evening "Star Parties" three days per week. After the Davis Mountains, towns are few and the country desolate, full of sagebrush and tumbling tumbleweeds. As you travel through central Texas, the terrain starts to feel like the Alps, but this is actually the famous "hill country." This diverse area serves some great barbeque and is the training ground for Lance Armstrong, seven-time Tour de France winner. If you take the alternate route through Austin, make sure you go hear some of the diverse music available at the nightclubs on Sixth Street.   Louisiana is like no other state in the United States due to its history, language, culture, and food. First of all, they have parishes instead of counties. Traveling right through the middle of Cajun country, in places like Mamou, a stop in a cafe is a trip unto itself. The crowd is speaking English, but you can't understand the words. Try to hear some lively Cajun music if you have the time. Mississippi offers rural riding all the way into Alabama, where the route crosses a bridge to Dauphin Island. From there it's a ferry ride across Mobile Bay to Gulf Shores and some of the whitest beaches in the world. If the ferry is closed due to inclement weather, you will have to take the alternate route through Mobile.   The scenery varies greatly across Florida, from the historic coastal city of Pensacola to the alligator-filled waters of the area around Palatka. The route ends in St. Augustine, a city full of interesting buildings and the Castillo de San Marcos, a fort that has guarded the city's waterfront for over three centuries.   Terrain   The route offers challenging terrain right from the start, with some longer climbs leaving San Diego all the way up to In-ko-pah Pass, about 70 miles east of the Pacific coast. There are two mountain passes in New Mexico, the highest being Emory Pass at 8,228 feet, which is also the route's highest point. The route just north of Silver City, New Mexico, which goes to the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument, offers some steep, challenging, rolling mountains, as does the hill country west of Austin, Texas. East of Austin the route flattens out as it meanders through piney woods, by bayous, along farmlands and woodlots, and past the Gulf Coast all the way to the Atlantic Ocean.   Logistics   Isolated stretches, especially in the western states of California, Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas are not uncommon. Services are infrequent and can dictate long miles on some days. The 144-mile stretch from Marathon to Comstock, Texas, calls for specific planning and carrying of food and water. Bike shops are not as plentiful as one would like, and there are none for the 450 miles between El Paso and Del Rio, Texas. There are also none between Bastrop, Texas, and Orange Beach, Alabama (870 miles), unless you go off route into Baton Rouge, Louisiana, or Mobile, Alabama.   PLEASE REMEMBER TO CHECK FOR UPDATED ADDENDA BEFORE STARTING A TRIP!       http://www.cyclocamping.com/proddetail.asp?prod=GOTBC-1511 http://www.cyclocamping.com/proddetail.asp?prod=GOTBC-1511 http://www.cyclocamping.com/prodimages/small/GOTBC-1511-1.jpg     Map Features      Adventure Cycling Association developed the best cross-country, loop, coastal and inland cycling routes available, with turn-by-turn directions, detailed navigational instructions for the tricky sections, and elevation profiles in the high country. The maps are also waterproof and sized to fit in a handlebar-bag window or jersey pocket.   ADVENTURE CYCLE MAP INCLUDE:   Service symbols indicating the locations of campgrounds, hostels, motels, gas stations, groceries, restaurants, post offices, and bike shops Narratives with turn-by-turn instructions for traveling in either direction Distances given in miles and kilometers Contour lines providing a general idea of elevation gains and losses Elevation profiles in mountainous regions with major ascents and descents indicated Details about the natural history and cultural heritage along the route A weather chart providing average monthly rainfall and mean temperatures at various points along the route Large-scale detail maps of urban or congested areas Summaries of riding conditions to provide information on road surfaces, traffic volumes, and areas of caution Our Online Addenda, where updates are always available and current These routes are available to you in 300 to 400-mile map sections, so you can plan anything from a weekend trip to a multi-month adventure. Our routes feature the backroads of America where you can experience the communities and rural landscapes that make our country unique. We want you to see a rural America that can't be seen from the freeways. Our generous members and supporters are helping to create and maintain our legacy and gift to the nation -- the Adventure Cycling Route Network.     THE FINER DETAILS OF ADVENTURE CYCLING MAPS   Adventure Cycling Association maps are divided in a dozen 40-60 miles sections (1/2 a day to 1 day biking), this is an example of one of those section:     Bi-directional Narratives: Narratives have detailed turn-by-turn instructions for traveling in either direction. The number preceding each directive indicates the distance you've come since the beginning of the map panel at the matchline. (The number following in parentheses is the distance in kilometers.) Changes in road names and numbers are marked by stars both in the narrative and on the map panel.     Locator Box: The locator box gives an idea of your progress on the map section. For an overview of the route, the Index Map shows a larger scale version of the route's location.     Matchlines: Matchlines are solid pink lines on each end of the map panel intersecting the route. The narrative leads you from matchline to matchline. Once you "reach" the matchline, turn to the next map panel and begin following its narrative, again proceeding from the near matchline to the far matchline.     Service Symbols: Symbols correspond with the service information on the text side of the map, and tell bicyclists what sort of services they will encounter along the route. These include campgrounds, bike shops, grocery stores, libraries, restaurants, post offices, hostels, motels, bed and breakfasts, and hotels.     Elevation Profiles: Elevation profiles indicate major ascents and descents. On the Lewis & Clark Trail maps (as shown here), the profile is attached to each map panel. On other maps, in the mountainous regions of the country, the profile appears in one continuous panel on the text side of the map. (Not all map sections have elevation profiles.)     North Arrow: The north arrow is not necessarily up as it is on most maps, and it changes orientation from panel to panel. This allows as many miles of the route as possible to be depicted on each map panel.     End Mileages: The mileage to either end of the route section is shown at the border of each map panel.     Annual Events and Points of Interest: For your information, selected museums, points of interest, and events are included, where space allows, on the map panels. Museums have a brief description of their exhibits. Annual events have a brief description and the time of year they occur.         Transamerica Route    Astoria, OR, to Yorktown, VA - 12 map set (4,262 mi.)           A CLASSIC ROUTE AS OLD AS BIKECENTENNIAL Grand parks along the TransAm include Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks, among the best in the United States. One additional treat: because this route has been ridden by cyclists for years, many of the cafes, restaurants, and overnight accommodations along the route have kept journals consisting of entries written by cross-country riders from previous years, providing you with a cyclist's history of the route. Plan on around three months (give or take) for the crossing. Some traverse the route quicker, but this leaves less time for sightseeing. This route can be ridden from May through September. Note that snow can occur at any time in the Rocky Mountains, and the highest pass on the route is over 11,500 feet. Although the prevailing weather patterns are from west to east, local wind patterns are more dependent on the passing pressure systems and local terrain, so you can expect your fair share of tailwinds and headwinds regardless of which direction you ride the route.     Astoria, Oregon, with the hills of a miniature San Francisco, is the official beginning-of-the-road. The view from atop the Astoria Column is well worth the uphill pedal. Stretches of beaches, outstanding state parks, steep ascents and descents, and great seafood abound during your first days of riding before you turn inland to the Willamette River Valley. Eugene is the largest city along the route, with about 140,000 residents. Other sizable cities along the way are Missoula, Montana; Pueblo, Colorado; and Carbondale, Illinois. The lush, green western side of the Cascade Mountains is a startling contrast to the dry terrain you'll be riding into after McKenzie Pass. The road over McKenzie Pass literally cuts through an ancient lava field and offers spectacular views of the Three Sisters and other snow-capped volcanic peaks of the Cascades. Central and eastern Oregon is made up of dry, mountainous terrain and is good place to carry extra water. The National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center outside of Baker City is a must-see, and after completing your trip crossing the country, you'll have no trouble relating to the experiences of the early pioneers.   Idaho offers a wonderful ride along the Salmon River, and some interesting Native American historic sites to visit. The route then follows the winding, scenic Lochsa River for the longest ascent of the trip (around 70 miles). You'll climb up and over Lolo Pass, enter Montana, and soon reach the spur into Missoula. Missoula, a college town, provides one of the highlights of the route, featuring Adventure Cycling headquarters with its "cyclist's lounge" and other amenities, along with whatever services you may require in town. Beautiful panoramas and mountain passes await you in Montana.   The views in Yellowstone National Park and of the Grand Tetons in Wyoming are incomparable, and memories will last a lifetime. It's worth an extra day or two off the bike to experience as much as you can of these two phenomenal national parks. Towns such as Dubois and Lander remind you that you're in the West, with their historic architecture and western-style cooking. Lamont is an oasis in the windy, desolate Great Divide Basin, and serves up a mean bowl of chili.   The scenery quickly changes from dry, high desert to alpine as you reach Kremmling, Colorado. Touristy Breckenridge is another great place for a layover day. You begin a long climb to crest the Continental Divide at Hoosier Pass, 11,542 feet, up amongst snow-covered peaks. As the route leaves the Rockies, Royal Gorge Park offers a fun layover day, either for hanging out at the Arkansas River bridge or taking a helicopter ride over or a raft trip through the gorge. Pueblo offers bike shops and great places to eat; it also serves as the halfway point of the TransAm Trail (time to celebrate!). It's a good place to stock up -- it's the largest city you'll pass through until Carbondale, Illinois.   Things start to dry out as you get into the eastern part of Colorado and cross into western Kansas. Carrying extra water is a good idea here -- this is hot, barren country. Right around Haswell, Colorado, you'll see your last hazy glimpse of the Rocky Mountains. Overnights at city parks in Kansas are usually accompanied by cool dips in the city swimming pools. You might have to do some early morning and early evening riding to escape the midday heat. Don't miss the pies at Cookie's in Golden City, Missouri! The flat-as-a-pool-table terrain of the Great Plains will change quickly into the roller-coaster riding of Missouri. You'll find Missouri offers Civil War history, terrific canoeing (at Eminence), and an excellent swimming hole (Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park).   The route crosses the Mississippi River at Chester, Illinois, and heads into Carbondale, another fun college town. A ferry takes you across the Ohio River into Kentucky, where you'll enjoy the evening fireflies at your campsites. Kentucky offers rolling white-fenced farms and woodlands until reaching Berea, the gateway to the Appalachian Mountains. A loop south of the route will take you to see Mammoth Caves National Park, the longest cave system in the world. Past Berea, you'll spend some time ascending and descending the mountains of the Appalachians, and riding part of the Blue Ridge Parkway in Virginia. The mountains turn to rolling hills and then flat riding through lush plantations and farmlands. The last stretch of the route is rich in the history of the American Revolution, with Colonial Williamsburg as the highlight. Yorktown, situated on the Chesapeake Bay, is the route's end.   Terrain Some stretches of the western portion of the route follow large river valleys and can be generally flat, but expect some climbing almost every day between Astoria, Oregon, and Pueblo, Colorado. The passes throughout the Rocky Mountains are generally long but not terribly steep. The descents from these passes are, of course, a blast. Most of Kansas is beautifully flat. Missouri through the Ozarks and eastern Kentucky through the Appalachians offers short, steep climbs. The Virginia portion of the route, surprisingly, has more total elevation gain than any other state.   Logistics Camping choices will vary across the country between small private campgrounds, city parks, state and national parks, national forests, and the occasional back yard. The northern Oregon coast is a heavily traveled tourist route and is flush with camping and service opportunities. From Oregon eastward through Kansas, you'll find services limited mainly to the towns along the route. Carrying extra water in the West is a good plan. Camping options improve once you're in the Rockies, but you should still expect some long stretches between accommodations and services. Options will increase near tourist areas such as Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks. Kansas is legendary for its hospitality. Camping in city parks is the norm through Kansas and Missouri. Food, water, and overnight accommodations are abundant from Missouri to Virginia.   PLEASE REMEMBER TO CHECK FOR UPDATED ADDENDA BEFORE STARTING A TRIP!       http://www.cyclocamping.com/proddetail.asp?prod=GOTBC-1541 http://www.cyclocamping.com/proddetail.asp?prod=GOTBC-1541 http://www.cyclocamping.com/prodimages/small/GOTBC-1541-1.jpg     Map Features      Adventure Cycling Association developed the best cross-country, loop, coastal and inland cycling routes available, with turn-by-turn directions, detailed navigational instructions for the tricky sections, and elevation profiles in the high country. The maps are also waterproof and sized to fit in a handlebar-bag window or jersey pocket.   ADVENTURE CYCLE MAP INCLUDE:   Service symbols indicating the locations of campgrounds, hostels, motels, gas stations, groceries, restaurants, post offices, and bike shops Narratives with turn-by-turn instructions for traveling in either direction Distances given in miles and kilometers Contour lines providing a general idea of elevation gains and losses Elevation profiles in mountainous regions with major ascents and descents indicated Details about the natural history and cultural heritage along the route A weather chart providing average monthly rainfall and mean temperatures at various points along the route Large-scale detail maps of urban or congested areas Summaries of riding conditions to provide information on road surfaces, traffic volumes, and areas of caution Our Online Addenda, where updates are always available and current These routes are available to you in 300 to 400-mile map sections, so you can plan anything from a weekend trip to a multi-month adventure. Our routes feature the backroads of America where you can experience the communities and rural landscapes that make our country unique. We want you to see a rural America that can't be seen from the freeways. Our generous members and supporters are helping to create and maintain our legacy and gift to the nation -- the Adventure Cycling Route Network.     THE FINER DETAILS OF ADVENTURE CYCLING MAPS   Adventure Cycling Association maps are divided in a dozen 40-60 miles sections (1/2 a day to 1 day biking), this is an example of one of those section:     Bi-directional Narratives: Narratives have detailed turn-by-turn instructions for traveling in either direction. The number preceding each directive indicates the distance you've come since the beginning of the map panel at the matchline. (The number following in parentheses is the distance in kilometers.) Changes in road names and numbers are marked by stars both in the narrative and on the map panel.     Locator Box: The locator box gives an idea of your progress on the map section. For an overview of the route, the Index Map shows a larger scale version of the route's location.     Matchlines: Matchlines are solid pink lines on each end of the map panel intersecting the route. The narrative leads you from matchline to matchline. Once you "reach" the matchline, turn to the next map panel and begin following its narrative, again proceeding from the near matchline to the far matchline.     Service Symbols: Symbols correspond with the service information on the text side of the map, and tell bicyclists what sort of services they will encounter along the route. These include campgrounds, bike shops, grocery stores, libraries, restaurants, post offices, hostels, motels, bed and breakfasts, and hotels.     Elevation Profiles: Elevation profiles indicate major ascents and descents. On the Lewis & Clark Trail maps (as shown here), the profile is attached to each map panel. On other maps, in the mountainous regions of the country, the profile appears in one continuous panel on the text side of the map. (Not all map sections have elevation profiles.)     North Arrow: The north arrow is not necessarily up as it is on most maps, and it changes orientation from panel to panel. This allows as many miles of the route as possible to be depicted on each map panel.     End Mileages: The mileage to either end of the route section is shown at the border of each map panel.     Annual Events and Points of Interest: For your information, selected museums, points of interest, and events are included, where space allows, on the map panels. Museums have a brief description of their exhibits. Annual events have a brief description and the time of year they occur.         Transamerica Route    Astoria, OR, to Yorktown, VA - 12 map set (4,262 mi.)           A CLASSIC ROUTE AS OLD AS BIKECENTENNIAL Grand parks along the TransAm include Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks, among the best in the United States. One additional treat: because this route has been ridden by cyclists for years, many of the cafes, restaurants, and overnight accommodations along the route have kept journals consisting of entries written by cross-country riders from previous years, providing you with a cyclist's history of the route. Plan on around three months (give or take) for the crossing. Some traverse the route quicker, but this leaves less time for sightseeing. This route can be ridden from May through September. Note that snow can occur at any time in the Rocky Mountains, and the highest pass on the route is over 11,500 feet. Although the prevailing weather patterns are from west to east, local wind patterns are more dependent on the passing pressure systems and local terrain, so you can expect your fair share of tailwinds and headwinds regardless of which direction you ride the route.     Astoria, Oregon, with the hills of a miniature San Francisco, is the official beginning-of-the-road. The view from atop the Astoria Column is well worth the uphill pedal. Stretches of beaches, outstanding state parks, steep ascents and descents, and great seafood abound during your first days of riding before you turn inland to the Willamette River Valley. Eugene is the largest city along the route, with about 140,000 residents. Other sizable cities along the way are Missoula, Montana; Pueblo, Colorado; and Carbondale, Illinois. The lush, green western side of the Cascade Mountains is a startling contrast to the dry terrain you'll be riding into after McKenzie Pass. The road over McKenzie Pass literally cuts through an ancient lava field and offers spectacular views of the Three Sisters and other snow-capped volcanic peaks of the Cascades. Central and eastern Oregon is made up of dry, mountainous terrain and is good place to carry extra water. The National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center outside of Baker City is a must-see, and after completing your trip crossing the country, you'll have no trouble relating to the experiences of the early pioneers.   Idaho offers a wonderful ride along the Salmon River, and some interesting Native American historic sites to visit. The route then follows the winding, scenic Lochsa River for the longest ascent of the trip (around 70 miles). You'll climb up and over Lolo Pass, enter Montana, and soon reach the spur into Missoula. Missoula, a college town, provides one of the highlights of the route, featuring Adventure Cycling headquarters with its "cyclist's lounge" and other amenities, along with whatever services you may require in town. Beautiful panoramas and mountain passes await you in Montana.   The views in Yellowstone National Park and of the Grand Tetons in Wyoming are incomparable, and memories will last a lifetime. It's worth an extra day or two off the bike to experience as much as you can of these two phenomenal national parks. Towns such as Dubois and Lander remind you that you're in the West, with their historic architecture and western-style cooking. Lamont is an oasis in the windy, desolate Great Divide Basin, and serves up a mean bowl of chili.   The scenery quickly changes from dry, high desert to alpine as you reach Kremmling, Colorado. Touristy Breckenridge is another great place for a layover day. You begin a long climb to crest the Continental Divide at Hoosier Pass, 11,542 feet, up amongst snow-covered peaks. As the route leaves the Rockies, Royal Gorge Park offers a fun layover day, either for hanging out at the Arkansas River bridge or taking a helicopter ride over or a raft trip through the gorge. Pueblo offers bike shops and great places to eat; it also serves as the halfway point of the TransAm Trail (time to celebrate!). It's a good place to stock up -- it's the largest city you'll pass through until Carbondale, Illinois.   Things start to dry out as you get into the eastern part of Colorado and cross into western Kansas. Carrying extra water is a good idea here -- this is hot, barren country. Right around Haswell, Colorado, you'll see your last hazy glimpse of the Rocky Mountains. Overnights at city parks in Kansas are usually accompanied by cool dips in the city swimming pools. You might have to do some early morning and early evening riding to escape the midday heat. Don't miss the pies at Cookie's in Golden City, Missouri! The flat-as-a-pool-table terrain of the Great Plains will change quickly into the roller-coaster riding of Missouri. You'll find Missouri offers Civil War history, terrific canoeing (at Eminence), and an excellent swimming hole (Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park).   The route crosses the Mississippi River at Chester, Illinois, and heads into Carbondale, another fun college town. A ferry takes you across the Ohio River into Kentucky, where you'll enjoy the evening fireflies at your campsites. Kentucky offers rolling white-fenced farms and woodlands until reaching Berea, the gateway to the Appalachian Mountains. A loop south of the route will take you to see Mammoth Caves National Park, the longest cave system in the world. Past Berea, you'll spend some time ascending and descending the mountains of the Appalachians, and riding part of the Blue Ridge Parkway in Virginia. The mountains turn to rolling hills and then flat riding through lush plantations and farmlands. The last stretch of the route is rich in the history of the American Revolution, with Colonial Williamsburg as the highlight. Yorktown, situated on the Chesapeake Bay, is the route's end.   Terrain Some stretches of the western portion of the route follow large river valleys and can be generally flat, but expect some climbing almost every day between Astoria, Oregon, and Pueblo, Colorado. The passes throughout the Rocky Mountains are generally long but not terribly steep. The descents from these passes are, of course, a blast. Most of Kansas is beautifully flat. Missouri through the Ozarks and eastern Kentucky through the Appalachians offers short, steep climbs. The Virginia portion of the route, surprisingly, has more total elevation gain than any other state.   Logistics Camping choices will vary across the country between small private campgrounds, city parks, state and national parks, national forests, and the occasional back yard. The northern Oregon coast is a heavily traveled tourist route and is flush with camping and service opportunities. From Oregon eastward through Kansas, you'll find services limited mainly to the towns along the route. Carrying extra water in the West is a good plan. Camping options improve once you're in the Rockies, but you should still expect some long stretches between accommodations and services. Options will increase near tourist areas such as Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks. Kansas is legendary for its hospitality. Camping in city parks is the norm through Kansas and Missouri. Food, water, and overnight accommodations are abundant from Missouri to Virginia.   PLEASE REMEMBER TO CHECK FOR UPDATED ADDENDA BEFORE STARTING A TRIP!       http://www.cyclocamping.com/proddetail.asp?prod=GOTBC-1542 http://www.cyclocamping.com/proddetail.asp?prod=GOTBC-1542 http://www.cyclocamping.com/prodimages/small/GOTBC-1542-1.jpg     Map Features      Adventure Cycling Association developed the best cross-country, loop, coastal and inland cycling routes available, with turn-by-turn directions, detailed navigational instructions for the tricky sections, and elevation profiles in the high country. The maps are also waterproof and sized to fit in a handlebar-bag window or jersey pocket.   ADVENTURE CYCLE MAP INCLUDE:   Service symbols indicating the locations of campgrounds, hostels, motels, gas stations, groceries, restaurants, post offices, and bike shops Narratives with turn-by-turn instructions for traveling in either direction Distances given in miles and kilometers Contour lines providing a general idea of elevation gains and losses Elevation profiles in mountainous regions with major ascents and descents indicated Details about the natural history and cultural heritage along the route A weather chart providing average monthly rainfall and mean temperatures at various points along the route Large-scale detail maps of urban or congested areas Summaries of riding conditions to provide information on road surfaces, traffic volumes, and areas of caution Our Online Addenda, where updates are always available and current These routes are available to you in 300 to 400-mile map sections, so you can plan anything from a weekend trip to a multi-month adventure. Our routes feature the backroads of America where you can experience the communities and rural landscapes that make our country unique. We want you to see a rural America that can't be seen from the freeways. Our generous members and supporters are helping to create and maintain our legacy and gift to the nation -- the Adventure Cycling Route Network.     THE FINER DETAILS OF ADVENTURE CYCLING MAPS   Adventure Cycling Association maps are divided in a dozen 40-60 miles sections (1/2 a day to 1 day biking), this is an example of one of those section:     Bi-directional Narratives: Narratives have detailed turn-by-turn instructions for traveling in either direction. The number preceding each directive indicates the distance you've come since the beginning of the map panel at the matchline. (The number following in parentheses is the distance in kilometers.) Changes in road names and numbers are marked by stars both in the narrative and on the map panel.     Locator Box: The locator box gives an idea of your progress on the map section. For an overview of the route, the Index Map shows a larger scale version of the route's location.     Matchlines: Matchlines are solid pink lines on each end of the map panel intersecting the route. The narrative leads you from matchline to matchline. Once you "reach" the matchline, turn to the next map panel and begin following its narrative, again proceeding from the near matchline to the far matchline.     Service Symbols: Symbols correspond with the service information on the text side of the map, and tell bicyclists what sort of services they will encounter along the route. These include campgrounds, bike shops, grocery stores, libraries, restaurants, post offices, hostels, motels, bed and breakfasts, and hotels.     Elevation Profiles: Elevation profiles indicate major ascents and descents. On the Lewis & Clark Trail maps (as shown here), the profile is attached to each map panel. On other maps, in the mountainous regions of the country, the profile appears in one continuous panel on the text side of the map. (Not all map sections have elevation profiles.)     North Arrow: The north arrow is not necessarily up as it is on most maps, and it changes orientation from panel to panel. This allows as many miles of the route as possible to be depicted on each map panel.     End Mileages: The mileage to either end of the route section is shown at the border of each map panel.     Annual Events and Points of Interest: For your information, selected museums, points of interest, and events are included, where space allows, on the map panels. Museums have a brief description of their exhibits. Annual events have a brief description and the time of year they occur.         Transamerica Route    Astoria, OR, to Yorktown, VA - 12 map set (4,262 mi.)           A CLASSIC ROUTE AS OLD AS BIKECENTENNIAL Grand parks along the TransAm include Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks, among the best in the United States. One additional treat: because this route has been ridden by cyclists for years, many of the cafes, restaurants, and overnight accommodations along the route have kept journals consisting of entries written by cross-country riders from previous years, providing you with a cyclist's history of the route. Plan on around three months (give or take) for the crossing. Some traverse the route quicker, but this leaves less time for sightseeing. This route can be ridden from May through September. Note that snow can occur at any time in the Rocky Mountains, and the highest pass on the route is over 11,500 feet. Although the prevailing weather patterns are from west to east, local wind patterns are more dependent on the passing pressure systems and local terrain, so you can expect your fair share of tailwinds and headwinds regardless of which direction you ride the route.     Astoria, Oregon, with the hills of a miniature San Francisco, is the official beginning-of-the-road. The view from atop the Astoria Column is well worth the uphill pedal. Stretches of beaches, outstanding state parks, steep ascents and descents, and great seafood abound during your first days of riding before you turn inland to the Willamette River Valley. Eugene is the largest city along the route, with about 140,000 residents. Other sizable cities along the way are Missoula, Montana; Pueblo, Colorado; and Carbondale, Illinois. The lush, green western side of the Cascade Mountains is a startling contrast to the dry terrain you'll be riding into after McKenzie Pass. The road over McKenzie Pass literally cuts through an ancient lava field and offers spectacular views of the Three Sisters and other snow-capped volcanic peaks of the Cascades. Central and eastern Oregon is made up of dry, mountainous terrain and is good place to carry extra water. The National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center outside of Baker City is a must-see, and after completing your trip crossing the country, you'll have no trouble relating to the experiences of the early pioneers.   Idaho offers a wonderful ride along the Salmon River, and some interesting Native American historic sites to visit. The route then follows the winding, scenic Lochsa River for the longest ascent of the trip (around 70 miles). You'll climb up and over Lolo Pass, enter Montana, and soon reach the spur into Missoula. Missoula, a college town, provides one of the highlights of the route, featuring Adventure Cycling headquarters with its "cyclist's lounge" and other amenities, along with whatever services you may require in town. Beautiful panoramas and mountain passes await you in Montana.   The views in Yellowstone National Park and of the Grand Tetons in Wyoming are incomparable, and memories will last a lifetime. It's worth an extra day or two off the bike to experience as much as you can of these two phenomenal national parks. Towns such as Dubois and Lander remind you that you're in the West, with their historic architecture and western-style cooking. Lamont is an oasis in the windy, desolate Great Divide Basin, and serves up a mean bowl of chili.   The scenery quickly changes from dry, high desert to alpine as you reach Kremmling, Colorado. Touristy Breckenridge is another great place for a layover day. You begin a long climb to crest the Continental Divide at Hoosier Pass, 11,542 feet, up amongst snow-covered peaks. As the route leaves the Rockies, Royal Gorge Park offers a fun layover day, either for hanging out at the Arkansas River bridge or taking a helicopter ride over or a raft trip through the gorge. Pueblo offers bike shops and great places to eat; it also serves as the halfway point of the TransAm Trail (time to celebrate!). It's a good place to stock up -- it's the largest city you'll pass through until Carbondale, Illinois.   Things start to dry out as you get into the eastern part of Colorado and cross into western Kansas. Carrying extra water is a good idea here -- this is hot, barren country. Right around Haswell, Colorado, you'll see your last hazy glimpse of the Rocky Mountains. Overnights at city parks in Kansas are usually accompanied by cool dips in the city swimming pools. You might have to do some early morning and early evening riding to escape the midday heat. Don't miss the pies at Cookie's in Golden City, Missouri! The flat-as-a-pool-table terrain of the Great Plains will change quickly into the roller-coaster riding of Missouri. You'll find Missouri offers Civil War history, terrific canoeing (at Eminence), and an excellent swimming hole (Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park).   The route crosses the Mississippi River at Chester, Illinois, and heads into Carbondale, another fun college town. A ferry takes you across the Ohio River into Kentucky, where you'll enjoy the evening fireflies at your campsites. Kentucky offers rolling white-fenced farms and woodlands until reaching Berea, the gateway to the Appalachian Mountains. A loop south of the route will take you to see Mammoth Caves National Park, the longest cave system in the world. Past Berea, you'll spend some time ascending and descending the mountains of the Appalachians, and riding part of the Blue Ridge Parkway in Virginia. The mountains turn to rolling hills and then flat riding through lush plantations and farmlands. The last stretch of the route is rich in the history of the American Revolution, with Colonial Williamsburg as the highlight. Yorktown, situated on the Chesapeake Bay, is the route's end.   Terrain Some stretches of the western portion of the route follow large river valleys and can be generally flat, but expect some climbing almost every day between Astoria, Oregon, and Pueblo, Colorado. The passes throughout the Rocky Mountains are generally long but not terribly steep. The descents from these passes are, of course, a blast. Most of Kansas is beautifully flat. Missouri through the Ozarks and eastern Kentucky through the Appalachians offers short, steep climbs. The Virginia portion of the route, surprisingly, has more total elevation gain than any other state.   Logistics Camping choices will vary across the country between small private campgrounds, city parks, state and national parks, national forests, and the occasional back yard. The northern Oregon coast is a heavily traveled tourist route and is flush with camping and service opportunities. From Oregon eastward through Kansas, you'll find services limited mainly to the towns along the route. Carrying extra water in the West is a good plan. Camping options improve once you're in the Rockies, but you should still expect some long stretches between accommodations and services. Options will increase near tourist areas such as Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks. Kansas is legendary for its hospitality. Camping in city parks is the norm through Kansas and Missouri. Food, water, and overnight accommodations are abundant from Missouri to Virginia.   PLEASE REMEMBER TO CHECK FOR UPDATED ADDENDA BEFORE STARTING A TRIP!       http://www.cyclocamping.com/proddetail.asp?prod=GOTBC-1543 http://www.cyclocamping.com/proddetail.asp?prod=GOTBC-1543 http://www.cyclocamping.com/prodimages/small/GOTBC-1543-1.jpg     Map Features      Adventure Cycling Association developed the best cross-country, loop, coastal and inland cycling routes available, with turn-by-turn directions, detailed navigational instructions for the tricky sections, and elevation profiles in the high country. The maps are also waterproof and sized to fit in a handlebar-bag window or jersey pocket.   ADVENTURE CYCLE MAP INCLUDE:   Service symbols indicating the locations of campgrounds, hostels, motels, gas stations, groceries, restaurants, post offices, and bike shops Narratives with turn-by-turn instructions for traveling in either direction Distances given in miles and kilometers Contour lines providing a general idea of elevation gains and losses Elevation profiles in mountainous regions with major ascents and descents indicated Details about the natural history and cultural heritage along the route A weather chart providing average monthly rainfall and mean temperatures at various points along the route Large-scale detail maps of urban or congested areas Summaries of riding conditions to provide information on road surfaces, traffic volumes, and areas of caution Our Online Addenda, where updates are always available and current These routes are available to you in 300 to 400-mile map sections, so you can plan anything from a weekend trip to a multi-month adventure. Our routes feature the backroads of America where you can experience the communities and rural landscapes that make our country unique. We want you to see a rural America that can't be seen from the freeways. Our generous members and supporters are helping to create and maintain our legacy and gift to the nation -- the Adventure Cycling Route Network.     THE FINER DETAILS OF ADVENTURE CYCLING MAPS   Adventure Cycling Association maps are divided in a dozen 40-60 miles sections (1/2 a day to 1 day biking), this is an example of one of those section:     Bi-directional Narratives: Narratives have detailed turn-by-turn instructions for traveling in either direction. The number preceding each directive indicates the distance you've come since the beginning of the map panel at the matchline. (The number following in parentheses is the distance in kilometers.) Changes in road names and numbers are marked by stars both in the narrative and on the map panel.     Locator Box: The locator box gives an idea of your progress on the map section. For an overview of the route, the Index Map shows a larger scale version of the route's location.     Matchlines: Matchlines are solid pink lines on each end of the map panel intersecting the route. The narrative leads you from matchline to matchline. Once you "reach" the matchline, turn to the next map panel and begin following its narrative, again proceeding from the near matchline to the far matchline.     Service Symbols: Symbols correspond with the service information on the text side of the map, and tell bicyclists what sort of services they will encounter along the route. These include campgrounds, bike shops, grocery stores, libraries, restaurants, post offices, hostels, motels, bed and breakfasts, and hotels.     Elevation Profiles: Elevation profiles indicate major ascents and descents. On the Lewis & Clark Trail maps (as shown here), the profile is attached to each map panel. On other maps, in the mountainous regions of the country, the profile appears in one continuous panel on the text side of the map. (Not all map sections have elevation profiles.)     North Arrow: The north arrow is not necessarily up as it is on most maps, and it changes orientation from panel to panel. This allows as many miles of the route as possible to be depicted on each map panel.     End Mileages: The mileage to either end of the route section is shown at the border of each map panel.     Annual Events and Points of Interest: For your information, selected museums, points of interest, and events are included, where space allows, on the map panels. Museums have a brief description of their exhibits. Annual events have a brief description and the time of year they occur.         Transamerica Route    Astoria, OR, to Yorktown, VA - 12 map set (4,262 mi.)           A CLASSIC ROUTE AS OLD AS BIKECENTENNIAL Grand parks along the TransAm include Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks, among the best in the United States. One additional treat: because this route has been ridden by cyclists for years, many of the cafes, restaurants, and overnight accommodations along the route have kept journals consisting of entries written by cross-country riders from previous years, providing you with a cyclist's history of the route. Plan on around three months (give or take) for the crossing. Some traverse the route quicker, but this leaves less time for sightseeing. This route can be ridden from May through September. Note that snow can occur at any time in the Rocky Mountains, and the highest pass on the route is over 11,500 feet. Although the prevailing weather patterns are from west to east, local wind patterns are more dependent on the passing pressure systems and local terrain, so you can expect your fair share of tailwinds and headwinds regardless of which direction you ride the route.     Astoria, Oregon, with the hills of a miniature San Francisco, is the official beginning-of-the-road. The view from atop the Astoria Column is well worth the uphill pedal. Stretches of beaches, outstanding state parks, steep ascents and descents, and great seafood abound during your first days of riding before you turn inland to the Willamette River Valley. Eugene is the largest city along the route, with about 140,000 residents. Other sizable cities along the way are Missoula, Montana; Pueblo, Colorado; and Carbondale, Illinois. The lush, green western side of the Cascade Mountains is a startling contrast to the dry terrain you'll be riding into after McKenzie Pass. The road over McKenzie Pass literally cuts through an ancient lava field and offers spectacular views of the Three Sisters and other snow-capped volcanic peaks of the Cascades. Central and eastern Oregon is made up of dry, mountainous terrain and is good place to carry extra water. The National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center outside of Baker City is a must-see, and after completing your trip crossing the country, you'll have no trouble relating to the experiences of the early pioneers.   Idaho offers a wonderful ride along the Salmon River, and some interesting Native American historic sites to visit. The route then follows the winding, scenic Lochsa River for the longest ascent of the trip (around 70 miles). You'll climb up and over Lolo Pass, enter Montana, and soon reach the spur into Missoula. Missoula, a college town, provides one of the highlights of the route, featuring Adventure Cycling headquarters with its "cyclist's lounge" and other amenities, along with whatever services you may require in town. Beautiful panoramas and mountain passes await you in Montana.   The views in Yellowstone National Park and of the Grand Tetons in Wyoming are incomparable, and memories will last a lifetime. It's worth an extra day or two off the bike to experience as much as you can of these two phenomenal national parks. Towns such as Dubois and Lander remind you that you're in the West, with their historic architecture and western-style cooking. Lamont is an oasis in the windy, desolate Great Divide Basin, and serves up a mean bowl of chili.   The scenery quickly changes from dry, high desert to alpine as you reach Kremmling, Colorado. Touristy Breckenridge is another great place for a layover day. You begin a long climb to crest the Continental Divide at Hoosier Pass, 11,542 feet, up amongst snow-covered peaks. As the route leaves the Rockies, Royal Gorge Park offers a fun layover day, either for hanging out at the Arkansas River bridge or taking a helicopter ride over or a raft trip through the gorge. Pueblo offers bike shops and great places to eat; it also serves as the halfway point of the TransAm Trail (time to celebrate!). It's a good place to stock up -- it's the largest city you'll pass through until Carbondale, Illinois.   Things start to dry out as you get into the eastern part of Colorado and cross into western Kansas. Carrying extra water is a good idea here -- this is hot, barren country. Right around Haswell, Colorado, you'll see your last hazy glimpse of the Rocky Mountains. Overnights at city parks in Kansas are usually accompanied by cool dips in the city swimming pools. You might have to do some early morning and early evening riding to escape the midday heat. Don't miss the pies at Cookie's in Golden City, Missouri! The flat-as-a-pool-table terrain of the Great Plains will change quickly into the roller-coaster riding of Missouri. You'll find Missouri offers Civil War history, terrific canoeing (at Eminence), and an excellent swimming hole (Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park).   The route crosses the Mississippi River at Chester, Illinois, and heads into Carbondale, another fun college town. A ferry takes you across the Ohio River into Kentucky, where you'll enjoy the evening fireflies at your campsites. Kentucky offers rolling white-fenced farms and woodlands until reaching Berea, the gateway to the Appalachian Mountains. A loop south of the route will take you to see Mammoth Caves National Park, the longest cave system in the world. Past Berea, you'll spend some time ascending and descending the mountains of the Appalachians, and riding part of the Blue Ridge Parkway in Virginia. The mountains turn to rolling hills and then flat riding through lush plantations and farmlands. The last stretch of the route is rich in the history of the American Revolution, with Colonial Williamsburg as the highlight. Yorktown, situated on the Chesapeake Bay, is the route's end.   Terrain Some stretches of the western portion of the route follow large river valleys and can be generally flat, but expect some climbing almost every day between Astoria, Oregon, and Pueblo, Colorado. The passes throughout the Rocky Mountains are generally long but not terribly steep. The descents from these passes are, of course, a blast. Most of Kansas is beautifully flat. Missouri through the Ozarks and eastern Kentucky through the Appalachians offers short, steep climbs. The Virginia portion of the route, surprisingly, has more total elevation gain than any other state.   Logistics Camping choices will vary across the country between small private campgrounds, city parks, state and national parks, national forests, and the occasional back yard. The northern Oregon coast is a heavily traveled tourist route and is flush with camping and service opportunities. From Oregon eastward through Kansas, you'll find services limited mainly to the towns along the route. Carrying extra water in the West is a good plan. Camping options improve once you're in the Rockies, but you should still expect some long stretches between accommodations and services. Options will increase near tourist areas such as Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks. Kansas is legendary for its hospitality. Camping in city parks is the norm through Kansas and Missouri. Food, water, and overnight accommodations are abundant from Missouri to Virginia.   PLEASE REMEMBER TO CHECK FOR UPDATED ADDENDA BEFORE STARTING A TRIP!       http://www.cyclocamping.com/proddetail.asp?prod=GOTBC-1512 http://www.cyclocamping.com/proddetail.asp?prod=GOTBC-1512 http://www.cyclocamping.com/prodimages/small/GOTBC-1512-1.jpg     Map Features      Adventure Cycling Association developed the best cross-country, loop, coastal and inland cycling routes available, with turn-by-turn directions, detailed navigational instructions for the tricky sections, and elevation profiles in the high country. The maps are also waterproof and sized to fit in a handlebar-bag window or jersey pocket.   ADVENTURE CYCLE MAP INCLUDE:   Service symbols indicating the locations of campgrounds, hostels, motels, gas stations, groceries, restaurants, post offices, and bike shops Narratives with turn-by-turn instructions for traveling in either direction Distances given in miles and kilometers Contour lines providing a general idea of elevation gains and losses Elevation profiles in mountainous regions with major ascents and descents indicated Details about the natural history and cultural heritage along the route A weather chart providing average monthly rainfall and mean temperatures at various points along the route Large-scale detail maps of urban or congested areas Summaries of riding conditions to provide information on road surfaces, traffic volumes, and areas of caution Our Online Addenda, where updates are always available and current These routes are available to you in 300 to 400-mile map sections, so you can plan anything from a weekend trip to a multi-month adventure. Our routes feature the backroads of America where you can experience the communities and rural landscapes that make our country unique. We want you to see a rural America that can't be seen from the freeways. Our generous members and supporters are helping to create and maintain our legacy and gift to the nation -- the Adventure Cycling Route Network.     THE FINER DETAILS OF ADVENTURE CYCLING MAPS   Adventure Cycling Association maps are divided in a dozen 40-60 miles sections (1/2 a day to 1 day biking), this is an example of one of those section:     Bi-directional Narratives: Narratives have detailed turn-by-turn instructions for traveling in either direction. The number preceding each directive indicates the distance you've come since the beginning of the map panel at the matchline. (The number following in parentheses is the distance in kilometers.) Changes in road names and numbers are marked by stars both in the narrative and on the map panel.     Locator Box: The locator box gives an idea of your progress on the map section. For an overview of the route, the Index Map shows a larger scale version of the route's location.     Matchlines: Matchlines are solid pink lines on each end of the map panel intersecting the route. The narrative leads you from matchline to matchline. Once you "reach" the matchline, turn to the next map panel and begin following its narrative, again proceeding from the near matchline to the far matchline.     Service Symbols: Symbols correspond with the service information on the text side of the map, and tell bicyclists what sort of services they will encounter along the route. These include campgrounds, bike shops, grocery stores, libraries, restaurants, post offices, hostels, motels, bed and breakfasts, and hotels.     Elevation Profiles: Elevation profiles indicate major ascents and descents. On the Lewis & Clark Trail maps (as shown here), the profile is attached to each map panel. On other maps, in the mountainous regions of the country, the profile appears in one continuous panel on the text side of the map. (Not all map sections have elevation profiles.)     North Arrow: The north arrow is not necessarily up as it is on most maps, and it changes orientation from panel to panel. This allows as many miles of the route as possible to be depicted on each map panel.     End Mileages: The mileage to either end of the route section is shown at the border of each map panel.     Annual Events and Points of Interest: For your information, selected museums, points of interest, and events are included, where space allows, on the map panels. Museums have a brief description of their exhibits. Annual events have a brief description and the time of year they occur.         Transamerica Route    Astoria, OR, to Yorktown, VA - 12 map set (4,262 mi.)           A CLASSIC ROUTE AS OLD AS BIKECENTENNIAL Grand parks along the TransAm include Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks, among the best in the United States. One additional treat: because this route has been ridden by cyclists for years, many of the cafes, restaurants, and overnight accommodations along the route have kept journals consisting of entries written by cross-country riders from previous years, providing you with a cyclist's history of the route. Plan on around three months (give or take) for the crossing. Some traverse the route quicker, but this leaves less time for sightseeing. This route can be ridden from May through September. Note that snow can occur at any time in the Rocky Mountains, and the highest pass on the route is over 11,500 feet. Although the prevailing weather patterns are from west to east, local wind patterns are more dependent on the passing pressure systems and local terrain, so you can expect your fair share of tailwinds and headwinds regardless of which direction you ride the route.     Astoria, Oregon, with the hills of a miniature San Francisco, is the official beginning-of-the-road. The view from atop the Astoria Column is well worth the uphill pedal. Stretches of beaches, outstanding state parks, steep ascents and descents, and great seafood abound during your first days of riding before you turn inland to the Willamette River Valley. Eugene is the largest city along the route, with about 140,000 residents. Other sizable cities along the way are Missoula, Montana; Pueblo, Colorado; and Carbondale, Illinois. The lush, green western side of the Cascade Mountains is a startling contrast to the dry terrain you'll be riding into after McKenzie Pass. The road over McKenzie Pass literally cuts through an ancient lava field and offers spectacular views of the Three Sisters and other snow-capped volcanic peaks of the Cascades. Central and eastern Oregon is made up of dry, mountainous terrain and is good place to carry extra water. The National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center outside of Baker City is a must-see, and after completing your trip crossing the country, you'll have no trouble relating to the experiences of the early pioneers.   Idaho offers a wonderful ride along the Salmon River, and some interesting Native American historic sites to visit. The route then follows the winding, scenic Lochsa River for the longest ascent of the trip (around 70 miles). You'll climb up and over Lolo Pass, enter Montana, and soon reach the spur into Missoula. Missoula, a college town, provides one of the highlights of the route, featuring Adventure Cycling headquarters with its "cyclist's lounge" and other amenities, along with whatever services you may require in town. Beautiful panoramas and mountain passes await you in Montana.   The views in Yellowstone National Park and of the Grand Tetons in Wyoming are incomparable, and memories will last a lifetime. It's worth an extra day or two off the bike to experience as much as you can of these two phenomenal national parks. Towns such as Dubois and Lander remind you that you're in the West, with their historic architecture and western-style cooking. Lamont is an oasis in the windy, desolate Great Divide Basin, and serves up a mean bowl of chili.   The scenery quickly changes from dry, high desert to alpine as you reach Kremmling, Colorado. Touristy Breckenridge is another great place for a layover day. You begin a long climb to crest the Continental Divide at Hoosier Pass, 11,542 feet, up amongst snow-covered peaks. As the route leaves the Rockies, Royal Gorge Park offers a fun layover day, either for hanging out at the Arkansas River bridge or taking a helicopter ride over or a raft trip through the gorge. Pueblo offers bike shops and great places to eat; it also serves as the halfway point of the TransAm Trail (time to celebrate!). It's a good place to stock up -- it's the largest city you'll pass through until Carbondale, Illinois.   Things start to dry out as you get into the eastern part of Colorado and cross into western Kansas. Carrying extra water is a good idea here -- this is hot, barren country. Right around Haswell, Colorado, you'll see your last hazy glimpse of the Rocky Mountains. Overnights at city parks in Kansas are usually accompanied by cool dips in the city swimming pools. You might have to do some early morning and early evening riding to escape the midday heat. Don't miss the pies at Cookie's in Golden City, Missouri! The flat-as-a-pool-table terrain of the Great Plains will change quickly into the roller-coaster riding of Missouri. You'll find Missouri offers Civil War history, terrific canoeing (at Eminence), and an excellent swimming hole (Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park).   The route crosses the Mississippi River at Chester, Illinois, and heads into Carbondale, another fun college town. A ferry takes you across the Ohio River into Kentucky, where you'll enjoy the evening fireflies at your campsites. Kentucky offers rolling white-fenced farms and woodlands until reaching Berea, the gateway to the Appalachian Mountains. A loop south of the route will take you to see Mammoth Caves National Park, the longest cave system in the world. Past Berea, you'll spend some time ascending and descending the mountains of the Appalachians, and riding part of the Blue Ridge Parkway in Virginia. The mountains turn to rolling hills and then flat riding through lush plantations and farmlands. The last stretch of the route is rich in the history of the American Revolution, with Colonial Williamsburg as the highlight. Yorktown, situated on the Chesapeake Bay, is the route's end.   Terrain Some stretches of the western portion of the route follow large river valleys and can be generally flat, but expect some climbing almost every day between Astoria, Oregon, and Pueblo, Colorado. The passes throughout the Rocky Mountains are generally long but not terribly steep. The descents from these passes are, of course, a blast. Most of Kansas is beautifully flat. Missouri through the Ozarks and eastern Kentucky through the Appalachians offers short, steep climbs. The Virginia portion of the route, surprisingly, has more total elevation gain than any other state.   Logistics Camping choices will vary across the country between small private campgrounds, city parks, state and national parks, national forests, and the occasional back yard. The northern Oregon coast is a heavily traveled tourist route and is flush with camping and service opportunities. From Oregon eastward through Kansas, you'll find services limited mainly to the towns along the route. Carrying extra water in the West is a good plan. Camping options improve once you're in the Rockies, but you should still expect some long stretches between accommodations and services. Options will increase near tourist areas such as Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks. Kansas is legendary for its hospitality. Camping in city parks is the norm through Kansas and Missouri. Food, water, and overnight accommodations are abundant from Missouri to Virginia.   PLEASE REMEMBER TO CHECK FOR UPDATED ADDENDA BEFORE STARTING A TRIP!       http://www.cyclocamping.com/proddetail.asp?prod=GOTBC-1513 http://www.cyclocamping.com/proddetail.asp?prod=GOTBC-1513 http://www.cyclocamping.com/prodimages/small/GOTBC-1513-1.jpg     Map Features      Adventure Cycling Association developed the best cross-country, loop, coastal and inland cycling routes available, with turn-by-turn directions, detailed navigational instructions for the tricky sections, and elevation profiles in the high country. The maps are also waterproof and sized to fit in a handlebar-bag window or jersey pocket.   ADVENTURE CYCLE MAP INCLUDE:   Service symbols indicating the locations of campgrounds, hostels, motels, gas stations, groceries, restaurants, post offices, and bike shops Narratives with turn-by-turn instructions for traveling in either direction Distances given in miles and kilometers Contour lines providing a general idea of elevation gains and losses Elevation profiles in mountainous regions with major ascents and descents indicated Details about the natural history and cultural heritage along the route A weather chart providing average monthly rainfall and mean temperatures at various points along the route Large-scale detail maps of urban or congested areas Summaries of riding conditions to provide information on road surfaces, traffic volumes, and areas of caution Our Online Addenda, where updates are always available and current These routes are available to you in 300 to 400-mile map sections, so you can plan anything from a weekend trip to a multi-month adventure. Our routes feature the backroads of America where you can experience the communities and rural landscapes that make our country unique. We want you to see a rural America that can't be seen from the freeways. Our generous members and supporters are helping to create and maintain our legacy and gift to the nation -- the Adventure Cycling Route Network.     THE FINER DETAILS OF ADVENTURE CYCLING MAPS   Adventure Cycling Association maps are divided in a dozen 40-60 miles sections (1/2 a day to 1 day biking), this is an example of one of those section:     Bi-directional Narratives: Narratives have detailed turn-by-turn instructions for traveling in either direction. The number preceding each directive indicates the distance you've come since the beginning of the map panel at the matchline. (The number following in parentheses is the distance in kilometers.) Changes in road names and numbers are marked by stars both in the narrative and on the map panel.     Locator Box: The locator box gives an idea of your progress on the map section. For an overview of the route, the Index Map shows a larger scale version of the route's location.     Matchlines: Matchlines are solid pink lines on each end of the map panel intersecting the route. The narrative leads you from matchline to matchline. Once you "reach" the matchline, turn to the next map panel and begin following its narrative, again proceeding from the near matchline to the far matchline.     Service Symbols: Symbols correspond with the service information on the text side of the map, and tell bicyclists what sort of services they will encounter along the route. These include campgrounds, bike shops, grocery stores, libraries, restaurants, post offices, hostels, motels, bed and breakfasts, and hotels.     Elevation Profiles: Elevation profiles indicate major ascents and descents. On the Lewis & Clark Trail maps (as shown here), the profile is attached to each map panel. On other maps, in the mountainous regions of the country, the profile appears in one continuous panel on the text side of the map. (Not all map sections have elevation profiles.)     North Arrow: The north arrow is not necessarily up as it is on most maps, and it changes orientation from panel to panel. This allows as many miles of the route as possible to be depicted on each map panel.     End Mileages: The mileage to either end of the route section is shown at the border of each map panel.     Annual Events and Points of Interest: For your information, selected museums, points of interest, and events are included, where space allows, on the map panels. Museums have a brief description of their exhibits. Annual events have a brief description and the time of year they occur.         Transamerica Route    Astoria, OR, to Yorktown, VA - 12 map set (4,262 mi.)           A CLASSIC ROUTE AS OLD AS BIKECENTENNIAL Grand parks along the TransAm include Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks, among the best in the United States. One additional treat: because this route has been ridden by cyclists for years, many of the cafes, restaurants, and overnight accommodations along the route have kept journals consisting of entries written by cross-country riders from previous years, providing you with a cyclist's history of the route. Plan on around three months (give or take) for the crossing. Some traverse the route quicker, but this leaves less time for sightseeing. This route can be ridden from May through September. Note that snow can occur at any time in the Rocky Mountains, and the highest pass on the route is over 11,500 feet. Although the prevailing weather patterns are from west to east, local wind patterns are more dependent on the passing pressure systems and local terrain, so you can expect your fair share of tailwinds and headwinds regardless of which direction you ride the route.     Astoria, Oregon, with the hills of a miniature San Francisco, is the official beginning-of-the-road. The view from atop the Astoria Column is well worth the uphill pedal. Stretches of beaches, outstanding state parks, steep ascents and descents, and great seafood abound during your first days of riding before you turn inland to the Willamette River Valley. Eugene is the largest city along the route, with about 140,000 residents. Other sizable cities along the way are Missoula, Montana; Pueblo, Colorado; and Carbondale, Illinois. The lush, green western side of the Cascade Mountains is a startling contrast to the dry terrain you'll be riding into after McKenzie Pass. The road over McKenzie Pass literally cuts through an ancient lava field and offers spectacular views of the Three Sisters and other snow-capped volcanic peaks of the Cascades. Central and eastern Oregon is made up of dry, mountainous terrain and is good place to carry extra water. The National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center outside of Baker City is a must-see, and after completing your trip crossing the country, you'll have no trouble relating to the experiences of the early pioneers.   Idaho offers a wonderful ride along the Salmon River, and some interesting Native American historic sites to visit. The route then follows the winding, scenic Lochsa River for the longest ascent of the trip (around 70 miles). You'll climb up and over Lolo Pass, enter Montana, and soon reach the spur into Missoula. Missoula, a college town, provides one of the highlights of the route, featuring Adventure Cycling headquarters with its "cyclist's lounge" and other amenities, along with whatever services you may require in town. Beautiful panoramas and mountain passes await you in Montana.   The views in Yellowstone National Park and of the Grand Tetons in Wyoming are incomparable, and memories will last a lifetime. It's worth an extra day or two off the bike to experience as much as you can of these two phenomenal national parks. Towns such as Dubois and Lander remind you that you're in the West, with their historic architecture and western-style cooking. Lamont is an oasis in the windy, desolate Great Divide Basin, and serves up a mean bowl of chili.   The scenery quickly changes from dry, high desert to alpine as you reach Kremmling, Colorado. Touristy Breckenridge is another great place for a layover day. You begin a long climb to crest the Continental Divide at Hoosier Pass, 11,542 feet, up amongst snow-covered peaks. As the route leaves the Rockies, Royal Gorge Park offers a fun layover day, either for hanging out at the Arkansas River bridge or taking a helicopter ride over or a raft trip through the gorge. Pueblo offers bike shops and great places to eat; it also serves as the halfway point of the TransAm Trail (time to celebrate!). It's a good place to stock up -- it's the largest city you'll pass through until Carbondale, Illinois.   Things start to dry out as you get into the eastern part of Colorado and cross into western Kansas. Carrying extra water is a good idea here -- this is hot, barren country. Right around Haswell, Colorado, you'll see your last hazy glimpse of the Rocky Mountains. Overnights at city parks in Kansas are usually accompanied by cool dips in the city swimming pools. You might have to do some early morning and early evening riding to escape the midday heat. Don't miss the pies at Cookie's in Golden City, Missouri! The flat-as-a-pool-table terrain of the Great Plains will change quickly into the roller-coaster riding of Missouri. You'll find Missouri offers Civil War history, terrific canoeing (at Eminence), and an excellent swimming hole (Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park).   The route crosses the Mississippi River at Chester, Illinois, and heads into Carbondale, another fun college town. A ferry takes you across the Ohio River into Kentucky, where you'll enjoy the evening fireflies at your campsites. Kentucky offers rolling white-fenced farms and woodlands until reaching Berea, the gateway to the Appalachian Mountains. A loop south of the route will take you to see Mammoth Caves National Park, the longest cave system in the world. Past Berea, you'll spend some time ascending and descending the mountains of the Appalachians, and riding part of the Blue Ridge Parkway in Virginia. The mountains turn to rolling hills and then flat riding through lush plantations and farmlands. The last stretch of the route is rich in the history of the American Revolution, with Colonial Williamsburg as the highlight. Yorktown, situated on the Chesapeake Bay, is the route's end.   Terrain Some stretches of the western portion of the route follow large river valleys and can be generally flat, but expect some climbing almost every day between Astoria, Oregon, and Pueblo, Colorado. The passes throughout the Rocky Mountains are generally long but not terribly steep. The descents from these passes are, of course, a blast. Most of Kansas is beautifully flat. Missouri through the Ozarks and eastern Kentucky through the Appalachians offers short, steep climbs. The Virginia portion of the route, surprisingly, has more total elevation gain than any other state.   Logistics Camping choices will vary across the country between small private campgrounds, city parks, state and national parks, national forests, and the occasional back yard. The northern Oregon coast is a heavily traveled tourist route and is flush with camping and service opportunities. From Oregon eastward through Kansas, you'll find services limited mainly to the towns along the route. Carrying extra water in the West is a good plan. Camping options improve once you're in the Rockies, but you should still expect some long stretches between accommodations and services. Options will increase near tourist areas such as Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks. Kansas is legendary for its hospitality. Camping in city parks is the norm through Kansas and Missouri. Food, water, and overnight accommodations are abundant from Missouri to Virginia.   PLEASE REMEMBER TO CHECK FOR UPDATED ADDENDA BEFORE STARTING A TRIP!       http://www.cyclocamping.com/proddetail.asp?prod=GOTBC-1521 http://www.cyclocamping.com/proddetail.asp?prod=GOTBC-1521 http://www.cyclocamping.com/prodimages/small/GOTBC-1521-1.jpg     Map Features      Adventure Cycling Association developed the best cross-country, loop, coastal and inland cycling routes available, with turn-by-turn directions, detailed navigational instructions for the tricky sections, and elevation profiles in the high country. The maps are also waterproof and sized to fit in a handlebar-bag window or jersey pocket.   ADVENTURE CYCLE MAP INCLUDE:   Service symbols indicating the locations of campgrounds, hostels, motels, gas stations, groceries, restaurants, post offices, and bike shops Narratives with turn-by-turn instructions for traveling in either direction Distances given in miles and kilometers Contour lines providing a general idea of elevation gains and losses Elevation profiles in mountainous regions with major ascents and descents indicated Details about the natural history and cultural heritage along the route A weather chart providing average monthly rainfall and mean temperatures at various points along the route Large-scale detail maps of urban or congested areas Summaries of riding conditions to provide information on road surfaces, traffic volumes, and areas of caution Our Online Addenda, where updates are always available and current These routes are available to you in 300 to 400-mile map sections, so you can plan anything from a weekend trip to a multi-month adventure. Our routes feature the backroads of America where you can experience the communities and rural landscapes that make our country unique. We want you to see a rural America that can't be seen from the freeways. Our generous members and supporters are helping to create and maintain our legacy and gift to the nation -- the Adventure Cycling Route Network.     THE FINER DETAILS OF ADVENTURE CYCLING MAPS   Adventure Cycling Association maps are divided in a dozen 40-60 miles sections (1/2 a day to 1 day biking), this is an example of one of those section:     Bi-directional Narratives: Narratives have detailed turn-by-turn instructions for traveling in either direction. The number preceding each directive indicates the distance you've come since the beginning of the map panel at the matchline. (The number following in parentheses is the distance in kilometers.) Changes in road names and numbers are marked by stars both in the narrative and on the map panel.     Locator Box: The locator box gives an idea of your progress on the map section. For an overview of the route, the Index Map shows a larger scale version of the route's location.     Matchlines: Matchlines are solid pink lines on each end of the map panel intersecting the route. The narrative leads you from matchline to matchline. Once you "reach" the matchline, turn to the next map panel and begin following its narrative, again proceeding from the near matchline to the far matchline.     Service Symbols: Symbols correspond with the service information on the text side of the map, and tell bicyclists what sort of services they will encounter along the route. These include campgrounds, bike shops, grocery stores, libraries, restaurants, post offices, hostels, motels, bed and breakfasts, and hotels.     Elevation Profiles: Elevation profiles indicate major ascents and descents. On the Lewis & Clark Trail maps (as shown here), the profile is attached to each map panel. On other maps, in the mountainous regions of the country, the profile appears in one continuous panel on the text side of the map. (Not all map sections have elevation profiles.)     North Arrow: The north arrow is not necessarily up as it is on most maps, and it changes orientation from panel to panel. This allows as many miles of the route as possible to be depicted on each map panel.     End Mileages: The mileage to either end of the route section is shown at the border of each map panel.     Annual Events and Points of Interest: For your information, selected museums, points of interest, and events are included, where space allows, on the map panels. Museums have a brief description of their exhibits. Annual events have a brief description and the time of year they occur.         Transamerica Route    Astoria, OR, to Yorktown, VA - 12 map set (4,262 mi.)           A CLASSIC ROUTE AS OLD AS BIKECENTENNIAL Grand parks along the TransAm include Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks, among the best in the United States. One additional treat: because this route has been ridden by cyclists for years, many of the cafes, restaurants, and overnight accommodations along the route have kept journals consisting of entries written by cross-country riders from previous years, providing you with a cyclist's history of the route. Plan on around three months (give or take) for the crossing. Some traverse the route quicker, but this leaves less time for sightseeing. This route can be ridden from May through September. Note that snow can occur at any time in the Rocky Mountains, and the highest pass on the route is over 11,500 feet. Although the prevailing weather patterns are from west to east, local wind patterns are more dependent on the passing pressure systems and local terrain, so you can expect your fair share of tailwinds and headwinds regardless of which direction you ride the route.     Astoria, Oregon, with the hills of a miniature San Francisco, is the official beginning-of-the-road. The view from atop the Astoria Column is well worth the uphill pedal. Stretches of beaches, outstanding state parks, steep ascents and descents, and great seafood abound during your first days of riding before you turn inland to the Willamette River Valley. Eugene is the largest city along the route, with about 140,000 residents. Other sizable cities along the way are Missoula, Montana; Pueblo, Colorado; and Carbondale, Illinois. The lush, green western side of the Cascade Mountains is a startling contrast to the dry terrain you'll be riding into after McKenzie Pass. The road over McKenzie Pass literally cuts through an ancient lava field and offers spectacular views of the Three Sisters and other snow-capped volcanic peaks of the Cascades. Central and eastern Oregon is made up of dry, mountainous terrain and is good place to carry extra water. The National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center outside of Baker City is a must-see, and after completing your trip crossing the country, you'll have no trouble relating to the experiences of the early pioneers.   Idaho offers a wonderful ride along the Salmon River, and some interesting Native American historic sites to visit. The route then follows the winding, scenic Lochsa River for the longest ascent of the trip (around 70 miles). You'll climb up and over Lolo Pass, enter Montana, and soon reach the spur into Missoula. Missoula, a college town, provides one of the highlights of the route, featuring Adventure Cycling headquarters with its "cyclist's lounge" and other amenities, along with whatever services you may require in town. Beautiful panoramas and mountain passes await you in Montana.   The views in Yellowstone National Park and of the Grand Tetons in Wyoming are incomparable, and memories will last a lifetime. It's worth an extra day or two off the bike to experience as much as you can of these two phenomenal national parks. Towns such as Dubois and Lander remind you that you're in the West, with their historic architecture and western-style cooking. Lamont is an oasis in the windy, desolate Great Divide Basin, and serves up a mean bowl of chili.   The scenery quickly changes from dry, high desert to alpine as you reach Kremmling, Colorado. Touristy Breckenridge is another great place for a layover day. You begin a long climb to crest the Continental Divide at Hoosier Pass, 11,542 feet, up amongst snow-covered peaks. As the route leaves the Rockies, Royal Gorge Park offers a fun layover day, either for hanging out at the Arkansas River bridge or taking a helicopter ride over or a raft trip through the gorge. Pueblo offers bike shops and great places to eat; it also serves as the halfway point of the TransAm Trail (time to celebrate!). It's a good place to stock up -- it's the largest city you'll pass through until Carbondale, Illinois.   Things start to dry out as you get into the eastern part of Colorado and cross into western Kansas. Carrying extra water is a good idea here -- this is hot, barren country. Right around Haswell, Colorado, you'll see your last hazy glimpse of the Rocky Mountains. Overnights at city parks in Kansas are usually accompanied by cool dips in the city swimming pools. You might have to do some early morning and early evening riding to escape the midday heat. Don't miss the pies at Cookie's in Golden City, Missouri! The flat-as-a-pool-table terrain of the Great Plains will change quickly into the roller-coaster riding of Missouri. You'll find Missouri offers Civil War history, terrific canoeing (at Eminence), and an excellent swimming hole (Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park).   The route crosses the Mississippi River at Chester, Illinois, and heads into Carbondale, another fun college town. A ferry takes you across the Ohio River into Kentucky, where you'll enjoy the evening fireflies at your campsites. Kentucky offers rolling white-fenced farms and woodlands until reaching Berea, the gateway to the Appalachian Mountains. A loop south of the route will take you to see Mammoth Caves National Park, the longest cave system in the world. Past Berea, you'll spend some time ascending and descending the mountains of the Appalachians, and riding part of the Blue Ridge Parkway in Virginia. The mountains turn to rolling hills and then flat riding through lush plantations and farmlands. The last stretch of the route is rich in the history of the American Revolution, with Colonial Williamsburg as the highlight. Yorktown, situated on the Chesapeake Bay, is the route's end.   Terrain Some stretches of the western portion of the route follow large river valleys and can be generally flat, but expect some climbing almost every day between Astoria, Oregon, and Pueblo, Colorado. The passes throughout the Rocky Mountains are generally long but not terribly steep. The descents from these passes are, of course, a blast. Most of Kansas is beautifully flat. Missouri through the Ozarks and eastern Kentucky through the Appalachians offers short, steep climbs. The Virginia portion of the route, surprisingly, has more total elevation gain than any other state.   Logistics Camping choices will vary across the country between small private campgrounds, city parks, state and national parks, national forests, and the occasional back yard. The northern Oregon coast is a heavily traveled tourist route and is flush with camping and service opportunities. From Oregon eastward through Kansas, you'll find services limited mainly to the towns along the route. Carrying extra water in the West is a good plan. Camping options improve once you're in the Rockies, but you should still expect some long stretches between accommodations and services. Options will increase near tourist areas such as Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks. Kansas is legendary for its hospitality. Camping in city parks is the norm through Kansas and Missouri. Food, water, and overnight accommodations are abundant from Missouri to Virginia.   PLEASE REMEMBER TO CHECK FOR UPDATED ADDENDA BEFORE STARTING A TRIP!       http://www.cyclocamping.com/proddetail.asp?prod=GOTBC-1522 http://www.cyclocamping.com/proddetail.asp?prod=GOTBC-1522 http://www.cyclocamping.com/prodimages/small/GOTBC-1522-1.jpg     Map Features      Adventure Cycling Association developed the best cross-country, loop, coastal and inland cycling routes available, with turn-by-turn directions, detailed navigational instructions for the tricky sections, and elevation profiles in the high country. The maps are also waterproof and sized to fit in a handlebar-bag window or jersey pocket.   ADVENTURE CYCLE MAP INCLUDE:   Service symbols indicating the locations of campgrounds, hostels, motels, gas stations, groceries, restaurants, post offices, and bike shops Narratives with turn-by-turn instructions for traveling in either direction Distances given in miles and kilometers Contour lines providing a general idea of elevation gains and losses Elevation profiles in mountainous regions with major ascents and descents indicated Details about the natural history and cultural heritage along the route A weather chart providing average monthly rainfall and mean temperatures at various points along the route Large-scale detail maps of urban or congested areas Summaries of riding conditions to provide information on road surfaces, traffic volumes, and areas of caution Our Online Addenda, where updates are always available and current These routes are available to you in 300 to 400-mile map sections, so you can plan anything from a weekend trip to a multi-month adventure. Our routes feature the backroads of America where you can experience the communities and rural landscapes that make our country unique. We want you to see a rural America that can't be seen from the freeways. Our generous members and supporters are helping to create and maintain our legacy and gift to the nation -- the Adventure Cycling Route Network.     THE FINER DETAILS OF ADVENTURE CYCLING MAPS   Adventure Cycling Association maps are divided in a dozen 40-60 miles sections (1/2 a day to 1 day biking), this is an example of one of those section:     Bi-directional Narratives: Narratives have detailed turn-by-turn instructions for traveling in either direction. The number preceding each directive indicates the distance you've come since the beginning of the map panel at the matchline. (The number following in parentheses is the distance in kilometers.) Changes in road names and numbers are marked by stars both in the narrative and on the map panel.     Locator Box: The locator box gives an idea of your progress on the map section. For an overview of the route, the Index Map shows a larger scale version of the route's location.     Matchlines: Matchlines are solid pink lines on each end of the map panel intersecting the route. The narrative leads you from matchline to matchline. Once you "reach" the matchline, turn to the next map panel and begin following its narrative, again proceeding from the near matchline to the far matchline.     Service Symbols: Symbols correspond with the service information on the text side of the map, and tell bicyclists what sort of services they will encounter along the route. These include campgrounds, bike shops, grocery stores, libraries, restaurants, post offices, hostels, motels, bed and breakfasts, and hotels.     Elevation Profiles: Elevation profiles indicate major ascents and descents. On the Lewis & Clark Trail maps (as shown here), the profile is attached to each map panel. On other maps, in the mountainous regions of the country, the profile appears in one continuous panel on the text side of the map. (Not all map sections have elevation profiles.)     North Arrow: The north arrow is not necessarily up as it is on most maps, and it changes orientation from panel to panel. This allows as many miles of the route as possible to be depicted on each map panel.     End Mileages: The mileage to either end of the route section is shown at the border of each map panel.     Annual Events and Points of Interest: For your information, selected museums, points of interest, and events are included, where space allows, on the map panels. Museums have a brief description of their exhibits. Annual events have a brief description and the time of year they occur.         Transamerica Route    Astoria, OR, to Yorktown, VA - 12 map set (4,262 mi.)           A CLASSIC ROUTE AS OLD AS BIKECENTENNIAL Grand parks along the TransAm include Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks, among the best in the United States. One additional treat: because this route has been ridden by cyclists for years, many of the cafes, restaurants, and overnight accommodations along the route have kept journals consisting of entries written by cross-country riders from previous years, providing you with a cyclist's history of the route. Plan on around three months (give or take) for the crossing. Some traverse the route quicker, but this leaves less time for sightseeing. This route can be ridden from May through September. Note that snow can occur at any time in the Rocky Mountains, and the highest pass on the route is over 11,500 feet. Although the prevailing weather patterns are from west to east, local wind patterns are more dependent on the passing pressure systems and local terrain, so you can expect your fair share of tailwinds and headwinds regardless of which direction you ride the route.     Astoria, Oregon, with the hills of a miniature San Francisco, is the official beginning-of-the-road. The view from atop the Astoria Column is well worth the uphill pedal. Stretches of beaches, outstanding state parks, steep ascents and descents, and great seafood abound during your first days of riding before you turn inland to the Willamette River Valley. Eugene is the largest city along the route, with about 140,000 residents. Other sizable cities along the way are Missoula, Montana; Pueblo, Colorado; and Carbondale, Illinois. The lush, green western side of the Cascade Mountains is a startling contrast to the dry terrain you'll be riding into after McKenzie Pass. The road over McKenzie Pass literally cuts through an ancient lava field and offers spectacular views of the Three Sisters and other snow-capped volcanic peaks of the Cascades. Central and eastern Oregon is made up of dry, mountainous terrain and is good place to carry extra water. The National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center outside of Baker City is a must-see, and after completing your trip crossing the country, you'll have no trouble relating to the experiences of the early pioneers.   Idaho offers a wonderful ride along the Salmon River, and some interesting Native American historic sites to visit. The route then follows the winding, scenic Lochsa River for the longest ascent of the trip (around 70 miles). You'll climb up and over Lolo Pass, enter Montana, and soon reach the spur into Missoula. Missoula, a college town, provides one of the highlights of the route, featuring Adventure Cycling headquarters with its "cyclist's lounge" and other amenities, along with whatever services you may require in town. Beautiful panoramas and mountain passes await you in Montana.   The views in Yellowstone National Park and of the Grand Tetons in Wyoming are incomparable, and memories will last a lifetime. It's worth an extra day or two off the bike to experience as much as you can of these two phenomenal national parks. Towns such as Dubois and Lander remind you that you're in the West, with their historic architecture and western-style cooking. Lamont is an oasis in the windy, desolate Great Divide Basin, and serves up a mean bowl of chili.   The scenery quickly changes from dry, high desert to alpine as you reach Kremmling, Colorado. Touristy Breckenridge is another great place for a layover day. You begin a long climb to crest the Continental Divide at Hoosier Pass, 11,542 feet, up amongst snow-covered peaks. As the route leaves the Rockies, Royal Gorge Park offers a fun layover day, either for hanging out at the Arkansas River bridge or taking a helicopter ride over or a raft trip through the gorge. Pueblo offers bike shops and great places to eat; it also serves as the halfway point of the TransAm Trail (time to celebrate!). It's a good place to stock up -- it's the largest city you'll pass through until Carbondale, Illinois.   Things start to dry out as you get into the eastern part of Colorado and cross into western Kansas. Carrying extra water is a good idea here -- this is hot, barren country. Right around Haswell, Colorado, you'll see your last hazy glimpse of the Rocky Mountains. Overnights at city parks in Kansas are usually accompanied by cool dips in the city swimming pools. You might have to do some early morning and early evening riding to escape the midday heat. Don't miss the pies at Cookie's in Golden City, Missouri! The flat-as-a-pool-table terrain of the Great Plains will change quickly into the roller-coaster riding of Missouri. You'll find Missouri offers Civil War history, terrific canoeing (at Eminence), and an excellent swimming hole (Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park).   The route crosses the Mississippi River at Chester, Illinois, and heads into Carbondale, another fun college town. A ferry takes you across the Ohio River into Kentucky, where you'll enjoy the evening fireflies at your campsites. Kentucky offers rolling white-fenced farms and woodlands until reaching Berea, the gateway to the Appalachian Mountains. A loop south of the route will take you to see Mammoth Caves National Park, the longest cave system in the world. Past Berea, you'll spend some time ascending and descending the mountains of the Appalachians, and riding part of the Blue Ridge Parkway in Virginia. The mountains turn to rolling hills and then flat riding through lush plantations and farmlands. The last stretch of the route is rich in the history of the American Revolution, with Colonial Williamsburg as the highlight. Yorktown, situated on the Chesapeake Bay, is the route's end.   Terrain Some stretches of the western portion of the route follow large river valleys and can be generally flat, but expect some climbing almost every day between Astoria, Oregon, and Pueblo, Colorado. The passes throughout the Rocky Mountains are generally long but not terribly steep. The descents from these passes are, of course, a blast. Most of Kansas is beautifully flat. Missouri through the Ozarks and eastern Kentucky through the Appalachians offers short, steep climbs. The Virginia portion of the route, surprisingly, has more total elevation gain than any other state.   Logistics Camping choices will vary across the country between small private campgrounds, city parks, state and national parks, national forests, and the occasional back yard. The northern Oregon coast is a heavily traveled tourist route and is flush with camping and service opportunities. From Oregon eastward through Kansas, you'll find services limited mainly to the towns along the route. Carrying extra water in the West is a good plan. Camping options improve once you're in the Rockies, but you should still expect some long stretches between accommodations and services. Options will increase near tourist areas such as Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks. Kansas is legendary for its hospitality. Camping in city parks is the norm through Kansas and Missouri. Food, water, and overnight accommodations are abundant from Missouri to Virginia.   PLEASE REMEMBER TO CHECK FOR UPDATED ADDENDA BEFORE STARTING A TRIP!       http://www.cyclocamping.com/proddetail.asp?prod=GOTBC-1523 http://www.cyclocamping.com/proddetail.asp?prod=GOTBC-1523 http://www.cyclocamping.com/prodimages/small/GOTBC-1523-1.jpg     Map Features      Adventure Cycling Association developed the best cross-country, loop, coastal and inland cycling routes available, with turn-by-turn directions, detailed navigational instructions for the tricky sections, and elevation profiles in the high country. The maps are also waterproof and sized to fit in a handlebar-bag window or jersey pocket.   ADVENTURE CYCLE MAP INCLUDE:   Service symbols indicating the locations of campgrounds, hostels, motels, gas stations, groceries, restaurants, post offices, and bike shops Narratives with turn-by-turn instructions for traveling in either direction Distances given in miles and kilometers Contour lines providing a general idea of elevation gains and losses Elevation profiles in mountainous regions with major ascents and descents indicated Details about the natural history and cultural heritage along the route A weather chart providing average monthly rainfall and mean temperatures at various points along the route Large-scale detail maps of urban or congested areas Summaries of riding conditions to provide information on road surfaces, traffic volumes, and areas of caution Our Online Addenda, where updates are always available and current These routes are available to you in 300 to 400-mile map sections, so you can plan anything from a weekend trip to a multi-month adventure. Our routes feature the backroads of America where you can experience the communities and rural landscapes that make our country unique. We want you to see a rural America that can't be seen from the freeways. Our generous members and supporters are helping to create and maintain our legacy and gift to the nation -- the Adventure Cycling Route Network.     THE FINER DETAILS OF ADVENTURE CYCLING MAPS   Adventure Cycling Association maps are divided in a dozen 40-60 miles sections (1/2 a day to 1 day biking), this is an example of one of those section:     Bi-directional Narratives: Narratives have detailed turn-by-turn instructions for traveling in either direction. The number preceding each directive indicates the distance you've come since the beginning of the map panel at the matchline. (The number following in parentheses is the distance in kilometers.) Changes in road names and numbers are marked by stars both in the narrative and on the map panel.     Locator Box: The locator box gives an idea of your progress on the map section. For an overview of the route, the Index Map shows a larger scale version of the route's location.     Matchlines: Matchlines are solid pink lines on each end of the map panel intersecting the route. The narrative leads you from matchline to matchline. Once you "reach" the matchline, turn to the next map panel and begin following its narrative, again proceeding from the near matchline to the far matchline.     Service Symbols: Symbols correspond with the service information on the text side of the map, and tell bicyclists what sort of services they will encounter along the route. These include campgrounds, bike shops, grocery stores, libraries, restaurants, post offices, hostels, motels, bed and breakfasts, and hotels.     Elevation Profiles: Elevation profiles indicate major ascents and descents. On the Lewis & Clark Trail maps (as shown here), the profile is attached to each map panel. On other maps, in the mountainous regions of the country, the profile appears in one continuous panel on the text side of the map. (Not all map sections have elevation profiles.)     North Arrow: The north arrow is not necessarily up as it is on most maps, and it changes orientation from panel to panel. This allows as many miles of the route as possible to be depicted on each map panel.     End Mileages: The mileage to either end of the route section is shown at the border of each map panel.     Annual Events and Points of Interest: For your information, selected museums, points of interest, and events are included, where space allows, on the map panels. Museums have a brief description of their exhibits. Annual events have a brief description and the time of year they occur.         Transamerica Route    Astoria, OR, to Yorktown, VA - 12 map set (4,262 mi.)           A CLASSIC ROUTE AS OLD AS BIKECENTENNIAL Grand parks along the TransAm include Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks, among the best in the United States. One additional treat: because this route has been ridden by cyclists for years, many of the cafes, restaurants, and overnight accommodations along the route have kept journals consisting of entries written by cross-country riders from previous years, providing you with a cyclist's history of the route. Plan on around three months (give or take) for the crossing. Some traverse the route quicker, but this leaves less time for sightseeing. This route can be ridden from May through September. Note that snow can occur at any time in the Rocky Mountains, and the highest pass on the route is over 11,500 feet. Although the prevailing weather patterns are from west to east, local wind patterns are more dependent on the passing pressure systems and local terrain, so you can expect your fair share of tailwinds and headwinds regardless of which direction you ride the route.     Astoria, Oregon, with the hills of a miniature San Francisco, is the official beginning-of-the-road. The view from atop the Astoria Column is well worth the uphill pedal. Stretches of beaches, outstanding state parks, steep ascents and descents, and great seafood abound during your first days of riding before you turn inland to the Willamette River Valley. Eugene is the largest city along the route, with about 140,000 residents. Other sizable cities along the way are Missoula, Montana; Pueblo, Colorado; and Carbondale, Illinois. The lush, green western side of the Cascade Mountains is a startling contrast to the dry terrain you'll be riding into after McKenzie Pass. The road over McKenzie Pass literally cuts through an ancient lava field and offers spectacular views of the Three Sisters and other snow-capped volcanic peaks of the Cascades. Central and eastern Oregon is made up of dry, mountainous terrain and is good place to carry extra water. The National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center outside of Baker City is a must-see, and after completing your trip crossing the country, you'll have no trouble relating to the experiences of the early pioneers.   Idaho offers a wonderful ride along the Salmon River, and some interesting Native American historic sites to visit. The route then follows the winding, scenic Lochsa River for the longest ascent of the trip (around 70 miles). You'll climb up and over Lolo Pass, enter Montana, and soon reach the spur into Missoula. Missoula, a college town, provides one of the highlights of the route, featuring Adventure Cycling headquarters with its "cyclist's lounge" and other amenities, along with whatever services you may require in town. Beautiful panoramas and mountain passes await you in Montana.   The views in Yellowstone National Park and of the Grand Tetons in Wyoming are incomparable, and memories will last a lifetime. It's worth an extra day or two off the bike to experience as much as you can of these two phenomenal national parks. Towns such as Dubois and Lander remind you that you're in the West, with their historic architecture and western-style cooking. Lamont is an oasis in the windy, desolate Great Divide Basin, and serves up a mean bowl of chili.   The scenery quickly changes from dry, high desert to alpine as you reach Kremmling, Colorado. Touristy Breckenridge is another great place for a layover day. You begin a long climb to crest the Continental Divide at Hoosier Pass, 11,542 feet, up amongst snow-covered peaks. As the route leaves the Rockies, Royal Gorge Park offers a fun layover day, either for hanging out at the Arkansas River bridge or taking a helicopter ride over or a raft trip through the gorge. Pueblo offers bike shops and great places to eat; it also serves as the halfway point of the TransAm Trail (time to celebrate!). It's a good place to stock up -- it's the largest city you'll pass through until Carbondale, Illinois.   Things start to dry out as you get into the eastern part of Colorado and cross into western Kansas. Carrying extra water is a good idea here -- this is hot, barren country. Right around Haswell, Colorado, you'll see your last hazy glimpse of the Rocky Mountains. Overnights at city parks in Kansas are usually accompanied by cool dips in the city swimming pools. You might have to do some early morning and early evening riding to escape the midday heat. Don't miss the pies at Cookie's in Golden City, Missouri! The flat-as-a-pool-table terrain of the Great Plains will change quickly into the roller-coaster riding of Missouri. You'll find Missouri offers Civil War history, terrific canoeing (at Eminence), and an excellent swimming hole (Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park).   The route crosses the Mississippi River at Chester, Illinois, and heads into Carbondale, another fun college town. A ferry takes you across the Ohio River into Kentucky, where you'll enjoy the evening fireflies at your campsites. Kentucky offers rolling white-fenced farms and woodlands until reaching Berea, the gateway to the Appalachian Mountains. A loop south of the route will take you to see Mammoth Caves National Park, the longest cave system in the world. Past Berea, you'll spend some time ascending and descending the mountains of the Appalachians, and riding part of the Blue Ridge Parkway in Virginia. The mountains turn to rolling hills and then flat riding through lush plantations and farmlands. The last stretch of the route is rich in the history of the American Revolution, with Colonial Williamsburg as the highlight. Yorktown, situated on the Chesapeake Bay, is the route's end.   Terrain Some stretches of the western portion of the route follow large river valleys and can be generally flat, but expect some climbing almost every day between Astoria, Oregon, and Pueblo, Colorado. The passes throughout the Rocky Mountains are generally long but not terribly steep. The descents from these passes are, of course, a blast. Most of Kansas is beautifully flat. Missouri through the Ozarks and eastern Kentucky through the Appalachians offers short, steep climbs. The Virginia portion of the route, surprisingly, has more total elevation gain than any other state.   Logistics Camping choices will vary across the country between small private campgrounds, city parks, state and national parks, national forests, and the occasional back yard. The northern Oregon coast is a heavily traveled tourist route and is flush with camping and service opportunities. From Oregon eastward through Kansas, you'll find services limited mainly to the towns along the route. Carrying extra water in the West is a good plan. Camping options improve once you're in the Rockies, but you should still expect some long stretches between accommodations and services. Options will increase near tourist areas such as Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks. Kansas is legendary for its hospitality. Camping in city parks is the norm through Kansas and Missouri. Food, water, and overnight accommodations are abundant from Missouri to Virginia.   PLEASE REMEMBER TO CHECK FOR UPDATED ADDENDA BEFORE STARTING A TRIP!       http://www.cyclocamping.com/proddetail.asp?prod=GOTBC-1531 http://www.cyclocamping.com/proddetail.asp?prod=GOTBC-1531 http://www.cyclocamping.com/prodimages/small/GOTBC-1531-1.jpg     Map Features      Adventure Cycling Association developed the best cross-country, loop, coastal and inland cycling routes available, with turn-by-turn directions, detailed navigational instructions for the tricky sections, and elevation profiles in the high country. The maps are also waterproof and sized to fit in a handlebar-bag window or jersey pocket.   ADVENTURE CYCLE MAP INCLUDE:   Service symbols indicating the locations of campgrounds, hostels, motels, gas stations, groceries, restaurants, post offices, and bike shops Narratives with turn-by-turn instructions for traveling in either direction Distances given in miles and kilometers Contour lines providing a general idea of elevation gains and losses Elevation profiles in mountainous regions with major ascents and descents indicated Details about the natural history and cultural heritage along the route A weather chart providing average monthly rainfall and mean temperatures at various points along the route Large-scale detail maps of urban or congested areas Summaries of riding conditions to provide information on road surfaces, traffic volumes, and areas of caution Our Online Addenda, where updates are always available and current These routes are available to you in 300 to 400-mile map sections, so you can plan anything from a weekend trip to a multi-month adventure. Our routes feature the backroads of America where you can experience the communities and rural landscapes that make our country unique. We want you to see a rural America that can't be seen from the freeways. Our generous members and supporters are helping to create and maintain our legacy and gift to the nation -- the Adventure Cycling Route Network.     THE FINER DETAILS OF ADVENTURE CYCLING MAPS   Adventure Cycling Association maps are divided in a dozen 40-60 miles sections (1/2 a day to 1 day biking), this is an example of one of those section:     Bi-directional Narratives: Narratives have detailed turn-by-turn instructions for traveling in either direction. The number preceding each directive indicates the distance you've come since the beginning of the map panel at the matchline. (The number following in parentheses is the distance in kilometers.) Changes in road names and numbers are marked by stars both in the narrative and on the map panel.     Locator Box: The locator box gives an idea of your progress on the map section. For an overview of the route, the Index Map shows a larger scale version of the route's location.     Matchlines: Matchlines are solid pink lines on each end of the map panel intersecting the route. The narrative leads you from matchline to matchline. Once you "reach" the matchline, turn to the next map panel and begin following its narrative, again proceeding from the near matchline to the far matchline.     Service Symbols: Symbols correspond with the service information on the text side of the map, and tell bicyclists what sort of services they will encounter along the route. These include campgrounds, bike shops, grocery stores, libraries, restaurants, post offices, hostels, motels, bed and breakfasts, and hotels.     Elevation Profiles: Elevation profiles indicate major ascents and descents. On the Lewis & Clark Trail maps (as shown here), the profile is attached to each map panel. On other maps, in the mountainous regions of the country, the profile appears in one continuous panel on the text side of the map. (Not all map sections have elevation profiles.)     North Arrow: The north arrow is not necessarily up as it is on most maps, and it changes orientation from panel to panel. This allows as many miles of the route as possible to be depicted on each map panel.     End Mileages: The mileage to either end of the route section is shown at the border of each map panel.     Annual Events and Points of Interest: For your information, selected museums, points of interest, and events are included, where space allows, on the map panels. Museums have a brief description of their exhibits. Annual events have a brief description and the time of year they occur.         Transamerica Route    Astoria, OR, to Yorktown, VA - 12 map set (4,262 mi.)           A CLASSIC ROUTE AS OLD AS BIKECENTENNIAL Grand parks along the TransAm include Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks, among the best in the United States. One additional treat: because this route has been ridden by cyclists for years, many of the cafes, restaurants, and overnight accommodations along the route have kept journals consisting of entries written by cross-country riders from previous years, providing you with a cyclist's history of the route. Plan on around three months (give or take) for the crossing. Some traverse the route quicker, but this leaves less time for sightseeing. This route can be ridden from May through September. Note that snow can occur at any time in the Rocky Mountains, and the highest pass on the route is over 11,500 feet. Although the prevailing weather patterns are from west to east, local wind patterns are more dependent on the passing pressure systems and local terrain, so you can expect your fair share of tailwinds and headwinds regardless of which direction you ride the route.     Astoria, Oregon, with the hills of a miniature San Francisco, is the official beginning-of-the-road. The view from atop the Astoria Column is well worth the uphill pedal. Stretches of beaches, outstanding state parks, steep ascents and descents, and great seafood abound during your first days of riding before you turn inland to the Willamette River Valley. Eugene is the largest city along the route, with about 140,000 residents. Other sizable cities along the way are Missoula, Montana; Pueblo, Colorado; and Carbondale, Illinois. The lush, green western side of the Cascade Mountains is a startling contrast to the dry terrain you'll be riding into after McKenzie Pass. The road over McKenzie Pass literally cuts through an ancient lava field and offers spectacular views of the Three Sisters and other snow-capped volcanic peaks of the Cascades. Central and eastern Oregon is made up of dry, mountainous terrain and is good place to carry extra water. The National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center outside of Baker City is a must-see, and after completing your trip crossing the country, you'll have no trouble relating to the experiences of the early pioneers.   Idaho offers a wonderful ride along the Salmon River, and some interesting Native American historic sites to visit. The route then follows the winding, scenic Lochsa River for the longest ascent of the trip (around 70 miles). You'll climb up and over Lolo Pass, enter Montana, and soon reach the spur into Missoula. Missoula, a college town, provides one of the highlights of the route, featuring Adventure Cycling headquarters with its "cyclist's lounge" and other amenities, along with whatever services you may require in town. Beautiful panoramas and mountain passes await you in Montana.   The views in Yellowstone National Park and of the Grand Tetons in Wyoming are incomparable, and memories will last a lifetime. It's worth an extra day or two off the bike to experience as much as you can of these two phenomenal national parks. Towns such as Dubois and Lander remind you that you're in the West, with their historic architecture and western-style cooking. Lamont is an oasis in the windy, desolate Great Divide Basin, and serves up a mean bowl of chili.   The scenery quickly changes from dry, high desert to alpine as you reach Kremmling, Colorado. Touristy Breckenridge is another great place for a layover day. You begin a long climb to crest the Continental Divide at Hoosier Pass, 11,542 feet, up amongst snow-covered peaks. As the route leaves the Rockies, Royal Gorge Park offers a fun layover day, either for hanging out at the Arkansas River bridge or taking a helicopter ride over or a raft trip through the gorge. Pueblo offers bike shops and great places to eat; it also serves as the halfway point of the TransAm Trail (time to celebrate!). It's a good place to stock up -- it's the largest city you'll pass through until Carbondale, Illinois.   Things start to dry out as you get into the eastern part of Colorado and cross into western Kansas. Carrying extra water is a good idea here -- this is hot, barren country. Right around Haswell, Colorado, you'll see your last hazy glimpse of the Rocky Mountains. Overnights at city parks in Kansas are usually accompanied by cool dips in the city swimming pools. You might have to do some early morning and early evening riding to escape the midday heat. Don't miss the pies at Cookie's in Golden City, Missouri! The flat-as-a-pool-table terrain of the Great Plains will change quickly into the roller-coaster riding of Missouri. You'll find Missouri offers Civil War history, terrific canoeing (at Eminence), and an excellent swimming hole (Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park).   The route crosses the Mississippi River at Chester, Illinois, and heads into Carbondale, another fun college town. A ferry takes you across the Ohio River into Kentucky, where you'll enjoy the evening fireflies at your campsites. Kentucky offers rolling white-fenced farms and woodlands until reaching Berea, the gateway to the Appalachian Mountains. A loop south of the route will take you to see Mammoth Caves National Park, the longest cave system in the world. Past Berea, you'll spend some time ascending and descending the mountains of the Appalachians, and riding part of the Blue Ridge Parkway in Virginia. The mountains turn to rolling hills and then flat riding through lush plantations and farmlands. The last stretch of the route is rich in the history of the American Revolution, with Colonial Williamsburg as the highlight. Yorktown, situated on the Chesapeake Bay, is the route's end.   Terrain Some stretches of the western portion of the route follow large river valleys and can be generally flat, but expect some climbing almost every day between Astoria, Oregon, and Pueblo, Colorado. The passes throughout the Rocky Mountains are generally long but not terribly steep. The descents from these passes are, of course, a blast. Most of Kansas is beautifully flat. Missouri through the Ozarks and eastern Kentucky through the Appalachians offers short, steep climbs. The Virginia portion of the route, surprisingly, has more total elevation gain than any other state.   Logistics Camping choices will vary across the country between small private campgrounds, city parks, state and national parks, national forests, and the occasional back yard. The northern Oregon coast is a heavily traveled tourist route and is flush with camping and service opportunities. From Oregon eastward through Kansas, you'll find services limited mainly to the towns along the route. Carrying extra water in the West is a good plan. Camping options improve once you're in the Rockies, but you should still expect some long stretches between accommodations and services. Options will increase near tourist areas such as Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks. Kansas is legendary for its hospitality. Camping in city parks is the norm through Kansas and Missouri. Food, water, and overnight accommodations are abundant from Missouri to Virginia.   PLEASE REMEMBER TO CHECK FOR UPDATED ADDENDA BEFORE STARTING A TRIP!       http://www.cyclocamping.com/proddetail.asp?prod=GOTBC-1532 http://www.cyclocamping.com/proddetail.asp?prod=GOTBC-1532 http://www.cyclocamping.com/prodimages/small/GOTBC-1532-1.jpg     Map Features      Adventure Cycling Association developed the best cross-country, loop, coastal and inland cycling routes available, with turn-by-turn directions, detailed navigational instructions for the tricky sections, and elevation profiles in the high country. The maps are also waterproof and sized to fit in a handlebar-bag window or jersey pocket.   ADVENTURE CYCLE MAP INCLUDE:   Service symbols indicating the locations of campgrounds, hostels, motels, gas stations, groceries, restaurants, post offices, and bike shops Narratives with turn-by-turn instructions for traveling in either direction Distances given in miles and kilometers Contour lines providing a general idea of elevation gains and losses Elevation profiles in mountainous regions with major ascents and descents indicated Details about the natural history and cultural heritage along the route A weather chart providing average monthly rainfall and mean temperatures at various points along the route Large-scale detail maps of urban or congested areas Summaries of riding conditions to provide information on road surfaces, traffic volumes, and areas of caution Our Online Addenda, where updates are always available and current These routes are available to you in 300 to 400-mile map sections, so you can plan anything from a weekend trip to a multi-month adventure. Our routes feature the backroads of America where you can experience the communities and rural landscapes that make our country unique. We want you to see a rural America that can't be seen from the freeways. Our generous members and supporters are helping to create and maintain our legacy and gift to the nation -- the Adventure Cycling Route Network.     THE FINER DETAILS OF ADVENTURE CYCLING MAPS   Adventure Cycling Association maps are divided in a dozen 40-60 miles sections (1/2 a day to 1 day biking), this is an example of one of those section:     Bi-directional Narratives: Narratives have detailed turn-by-turn instructions for traveling in either direction. The number preceding each directive indicates the distance you've come since the beginning of the map panel at the matchline. (The number following in parentheses is the distance in kilometers.) Changes in road names and numbers are marked by stars both in the narrative and on the map panel.     Locator Box: The locator box gives an idea of your progress on the map section. For an overview of the route, the Index Map shows a larger scale version of the route's location.     Matchlines: Matchlines are solid pink lines on each end of the map panel intersecting the route. The narrative leads you from matchline to matchline. Once you "reach" the matchline, turn to the next map panel and begin following its narrative, again proceeding from the near matchline to the far matchline.     Service Symbols: Symbols correspond with the service information on the text side of the map, and tell bicyclists what sort of services they will encounter along the route. These include campgrounds, bike shops, grocery stores, libraries, restaurants, post offices, hostels, motels, bed and breakfasts, and hotels.     Elevation Profiles: Elevation profiles indicate major ascents and descents. On the Lewis & Clark Trail maps (as shown here), the profile is attached to each map panel. On other maps, in the mountainous regions of the country, the profile appears in one continuous panel on the text side of the map. (Not all map sections have elevation profiles.)     North Arrow: The north arrow is not necessarily up as it is on most maps, and it changes orientation from panel to panel. This allows as many miles of the route as possible to be depicted on each map panel.     End Mileages: The mileage to either end of the route section is shown at the border of each map panel.     Annual Events and Points of Interest: For your information, selected museums, points of interest, and events are included, where space allows, on the map panels. Museums have a brief description of their exhibits. Annual events have a brief description and the time of year they occur.         Transamerica Route    Astoria, OR, to Yorktown, VA - 12 map set (4,262 mi.)           A CLASSIC ROUTE AS OLD AS BIKECENTENNIAL Grand parks along the TransAm include Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks, among the best in the United States. One additional treat: because this route has been ridden by cyclists for years, many of the cafes, restaurants, and overnight accommodations along the route have kept journals consisting of entries written by cross-country riders from previous years, providing you with a cyclist's history of the route. Plan on around three months (give or take) for the crossing. Some traverse the route quicker, but this leaves less time for sightseeing. This route can be ridden from May through September. Note that snow can occur at any time in the Rocky Mountains, and the highest pass on the route is over 11,500 feet. Although the prevailing weather patterns are from west to east, local wind patterns are more dependent on the passing pressure systems and local terrain, so you can expect your fair share of tailwinds and headwinds regardless of which direction you ride the route.     Astoria, Oregon, with the hills of a miniature San Francisco, is the official beginning-of-the-road. The view from atop the Astoria Column is well worth the uphill pedal. Stretches of beaches, outstanding state parks, steep ascents and descents, and great seafood abound during your first days of riding before you turn inland to the Willamette River Valley. Eugene is the largest city along the route, with about 140,000 residents. Other sizable cities along the way are Missoula, Montana; Pueblo, Colorado; and Carbondale, Illinois. The lush, green western side of the Cascade Mountains is a startling contrast to the dry terrain you'll be riding into after McKenzie Pass. The road over McKenzie Pass literally cuts through an ancient lava field and offers spectacular views of the Three Sisters and other snow-capped volcanic peaks of the Cascades. Central and eastern Oregon is made up of dry, mountainous terrain and is good place to carry extra water. The National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center outside of Baker City is a must-see, and after completing your trip crossing the country, you'll have no trouble relating to the experiences of the early pioneers.   Idaho offers a wonderful ride along the Salmon River, and some interesting Native American historic sites to visit. The route then follows the winding, scenic Lochsa River for the longest ascent of the trip (around 70 miles). You'll climb up and over Lolo Pass, enter Montana, and soon reach the spur into Missoula. Missoula, a college town, provides one of the highlights of the route, featuring Adventure Cycling headquarters with its "cyclist's lounge" and other amenities, along with whatever services you may require in town. Beautiful panoramas and mountain passes await you in Montana.   The views in Yellowstone National Park and of the Grand Tetons in Wyoming are incomparable, and memories will last a lifetime. It's worth an extra day or two off the bike to experience as much as you can of these two phenomenal national parks. Towns such as Dubois and Lander remind you that you're in the West, with their historic architecture and western-style cooking. Lamont is an oasis in the windy, desolate Great Divide Basin, and serves up a mean bowl of chili.   The scenery quickly changes from dry, high desert to alpine as you reach Kremmling, Colorado. Touristy Breckenridge is another great place for a layover day. You begin a long climb to crest the Continental Divide at Hoosier Pass, 11,542 feet, up amongst snow-covered peaks. As the route leaves the Rockies, Royal Gorge Park offers a fun layover day, either for hanging out at the Arkansas River bridge or taking a helicopter ride over or a raft trip through the gorge. Pueblo offers bike shops and great places to eat; it also serves as the halfway point of the TransAm Trail (time to celebrate!). It's a good place to stock up -- it's the largest city you'll pass through until Carbondale, Illinois.   Things start to dry out as you get into the eastern part of Colorado and cross into western Kansas. Carrying extra water is a good idea here -- this is hot, barren country. Right around Haswell, Colorado, you'll see your last hazy glimpse of the Rocky Mountains. Overnights at city parks in Kansas are usually accompanied by cool dips in the city swimming pools. You might have to do some early morning and early evening riding to escape the midday heat. Don't miss the pies at Cookie's in Golden City, Missouri! The flat-as-a-pool-table terrain of the Great Plains will change quickly into the roller-coaster riding of Missouri. You'll find Missouri offers Civil War history, terrific canoeing (at Eminence), and an excellent swimming hole (Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park).   The route crosses the Mississippi River at Chester, Illinois, and heads into Carbondale, another fun college town. A ferry takes you across the Ohio River into Kentucky, where you'll enjoy the evening fireflies at your campsites. Kentucky offers rolling white-fenced farms and woodlands until reaching Berea, the gateway to the Appalachian Mountains. A loop south of the route will take you to see Mammoth Caves National Park, the longest cave system in the world. Past Berea, you'll spend some time ascending and descending the mountains of the Appalachians, and riding part of the Blue Ridge Parkway in Virginia. The mountains turn to rolling hills and then flat riding through lush plantations and farmlands. The last stretch of the route is rich in the history of the American Revolution, with Colonial Williamsburg as the highlight. Yorktown, situated on the Chesapeake Bay, is the route's end.   Terrain Some stretches of the western portion of the route follow large river valleys and can be generally flat, but expect some climbing almost every day between Astoria, Oregon, and Pueblo, Colorado. The passes throughout the Rocky Mountains are generally long but not terribly steep. The descents from these passes are, of course, a blast. Most of Kansas is beautifully flat. Missouri through the Ozarks and eastern Kentucky through the Appalachians offers short, steep climbs. The Virginia portion of the route, surprisingly, has more total elevation gain than any other state.   Logistics Camping choices will vary across the country between small private campgrounds, city parks, state and national parks, national forests, and the occasional back yard. The northern Oregon coast is a heavily traveled tourist route and is flush with camping and service opportunities. From Oregon eastward through Kansas, you'll find services limited mainly to the towns along the route. Carrying extra water in the West is a good plan. Camping options improve once you're in the Rockies, but you should still expect some long stretches between accommodations and services. Options will increase near tourist areas such as Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks. Kansas is legendary for its hospitality. Camping in city parks is the norm through Kansas and Missouri. Food, water, and overnight accommodations are abundant from Missouri to Virginia.   PLEASE REMEMBER TO CHECK FOR UPDATED ADDENDA BEFORE STARTING A TRIP!       http://www.cyclocamping.com/proddetail.asp?prod=GOTBC-1532 http://www.cyclocamping.com/proddetail.asp?prod=GOTBC-1532 http://www.cyclocamping.com/prodimages/small/GOTBC-1532-1.jpg     Map Features      Adventure Cycling Association developed the best cross-country, loop, coastal and inland cycling routes available, with turn-by-turn directions, detailed navigational instructions for the tricky sections, and elevation profiles in the high country. The maps are also waterproof and sized to fit in a handlebar-bag window or jersey pocket.   ADVENTURE CYCLE MAP INCLUDE:   Service symbols indicating the locations of campgrounds, hostels, motels, gas stations, groceries, restaurants, post offices, and bike shops Narratives with turn-by-turn instructions for traveling in either direction Distances given in miles and kilometers Contour lines providing a general idea of elevation gains and losses Elevation profiles in mountainous regions with major ascents and descents indicated Details about the natural history and cultural heritage along the route A weather chart providing average monthly rainfall and mean temperatures at various points along the route Large-scale detail maps of urban or congested areas Summaries of riding conditions to provide information on road surfaces, traffic volumes, and areas of caution Our Online Addenda, where updates are always available and current These routes are available to you in 300 to 400-mile map sections, so you can plan anything from a weekend trip to a multi-month adventure. Our routes feature the backroads of America where you can experience the communities and rural landscapes that make our country unique. We want you to see a rural America that can't be seen from the freeways. Our generous members and supporters are helping to create and maintain our legacy and gift to the nation -- the Adventure Cycling Route Network.     THE FINER DETAILS OF ADVENTURE CYCLING MAPS   Adventure Cycling Association maps are divided in a dozen 40-60 miles sections (1/2 a day to 1 day biking), this is an example of one of those section:     Bi-directional Narratives: Narratives have detailed turn-by-turn instructions for traveling in either direction. The number preceding each directive indicates the distance you've come since the beginning of the map panel at the matchline. (The number following in parentheses is the distance in kilometers.) Changes in road names and numbers are marked by stars both in the narrative and on the map panel.     Locator Box: The locator box gives an idea of your progress on the map section. For an overview of the route, the Index Map shows a larger scale version of the route's location.     Matchlines: Matchlines are solid pink lines on each end of the map panel intersecting the route. The narrative leads you from matchline to matchline. Once you "reach" the matchline, turn to the next map panel and begin following its narrative, again proceeding from the near matchline to the far matchline.     Service Symbols: Symbols correspond with the service information on the text side of the map, and tell bicyclists what sort of services they will encounter along the route. These include campgrounds, bike shops, grocery stores, libraries, restaurants, post offices, hostels, motels, bed and breakfasts, and hotels.     Elevation Profiles: Elevation profiles indicate major ascents and descents. On the Lewis & Clark Trail maps (as shown here), the profile is attached to each map panel. On other maps, in the mountainous regions of the country, the profile appears in one continuous panel on the text side of the map. (Not all map sections have elevation profiles.)     North Arrow: The north arrow is not necessarily up as it is on most maps, and it changes orientation from panel to panel. This allows as many miles of the route as possible to be depicted on each map panel.     End Mileages: The mileage to either end of the route section is shown at the border of each map panel.     Annual Events and Points of Interest: For your information, selected museums, points of interest, and events are included, where space allows, on the map panels. Museums have a brief description of their exhibits. Annual events have a brief description and the time of year they occur.         Transamerica Route    Astoria, OR, to Yorktown, VA - 12 map set (4,262 mi.)           A CLASSIC ROUTE AS OLD AS BIKECENTENNIAL Grand parks along the TransAm include Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks, among the best in the United States. One additional treat: because this route has been ridden by cyclists for years, many of the cafes, restaurants, and overnight accommodations along the route have kept journals consisting of entries written by cross-country riders from previous years, providing you with a cyclist's history of the route. Plan on around three months (give or take) for the crossing. Some traverse the route quicker, but this leaves less time for sightseeing. This route can be ridden from May through September. Note that snow can occur at any time in the Rocky Mountains, and the highest pass on the route is over 11,500 feet. Although the prevailing weather patterns are from west to east, local wind patterns are more dependent on the passing pressure systems and local terrain, so you can expect your fair share of tailwinds and headwinds regardless of which direction you ride the route.     Astoria, Oregon, with the hills of a miniature San Francisco, is the official beginning-of-the-road. The view from atop the Astoria Column is well worth the uphill pedal. Stretches of beaches, outstanding state parks, steep ascents and descents, and great seafood abound during your first days of riding before you turn inland to the Willamette River Valley. Eugene is the largest city along the route, with about 140,000 residents. Other sizable cities along the way are Missoula, Montana; Pueblo, Colorado; and Carbondale, Illinois. The lush, green western side of the Cascade Mountains is a startling contrast to the dry terrain you'll be riding into after McKenzie Pass. The road over McKenzie Pass literally cuts through an ancient lava field and offers spectacular views of the Three Sisters and other snow-capped volcanic peaks of the Cascades. Central and eastern Oregon is made up of dry, mountainous terrain and is good place to carry extra water. The National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center outside of Baker City is a must-see, and after completing your trip crossing the country, you'll have no trouble relating to the experiences of the early pioneers.   Idaho offers a wonderful ride along the Salmon River, and some interesting Native American historic sites to visit. The route then follows the winding, scenic Lochsa River for the longest ascent of the trip (around 70 miles). You'll climb up and over Lolo Pass, enter Montana, and soon reach the spur into Missoula. Missoula, a college town, provides one of the highlights of the route, featuring Adventure Cycling headquarters with its "cyclist's lounge" and other amenities, along with whatever services you may require in town. Beautiful panoramas and mountain passes await you in Montana.   The views in Yellowstone National Park and of the Grand Tetons in Wyoming are incomparable, and memories will last a lifetime. It's worth an extra day or two off the bike to experience as much as you can of these two phenomenal national parks. Towns such as Dubois and Lander remind you that you're in the West, with their historic architecture and western-style cooking. Lamont is an oasis in the windy, desolate Great Divide Basin, and serves up a mean bowl of chili.   The scenery quickly changes from dry, high desert to alpine as you reach Kremmling, Colorado. Touristy Breckenridge is another great place for a layover day. You begin a long climb to crest the Continental Divide at Hoosier Pass, 11,542 feet, up amongst snow-covered peaks. As the route leaves the Rockies, Royal Gorge Park offers a fun layover day, either for hanging out at the Arkansas River bridge or taking a helicopter ride over or a raft trip through the gorge. Pueblo offers bike shops and great places to eat; it also serves as the halfway point of the TransAm Trail (time to celebrate!). It's a good place to stock up -- it's the largest city you'll pass through until Carbondale, Illinois.   Things start to dry out as you get into the eastern part of Colorado and cross into western Kansas. Carrying extra water is a good idea here -- this is hot, barren country. Right around Haswell, Colorado, you'll see your last hazy glimpse of the Rocky Mountains. Overnights at city parks in Kansas are usually accompanied by cool dips in the city swimming pools. You might have to do some early morning and early evening riding to escape the midday heat. Don't miss the pies at Cookie's in Golden City, Missouri! The flat-as-a-pool-table terrain of the Great Plains will change quickly into the roller-coaster riding of Missouri. You'll find Missouri offers Civil War history, terrific canoeing (at Eminence), and an excellent swimming hole (Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park).   The route crosses the Mississippi River at Chester, Illinois, and heads into Carbondale, another fun college town. A ferry takes you across the Ohio River into Kentucky, where you'll enjoy the evening fireflies at your campsites. Kentucky offers rolling white-fenced farms and woodlands until reaching Berea, the gateway to the Appalachian Mountains. A loop south of the route will take you to see Mammoth Caves National Park, the longest cave system in the world. Past Berea, you'll spend some time ascending and descending the mountains of the Appalachians, and riding part of the Blue Ridge Parkway in Virginia. The mountains turn to rolling hills and then flat riding through lush plantations and farmlands. The last stretch of the route is rich in the history of the American Revolution, with Colonial Williamsburg as the highlight. Yorktown, situated on the Chesapeake Bay, is the route's end.   Terrain Some stretches of the western portion of the route follow large river valleys and can be generally flat, but expect some climbing almost every day between Astoria, Oregon, and Pueblo, Colorado. The passes throughout the Rocky Mountains are generally long but not terribly steep. The descents from these passes are, of course, a blast. Most of Kansas is beautifully flat. Missouri through the Ozarks and eastern Kentucky through the Appalachians offers short, steep climbs. The Virginia portion of the route, surprisingly, has more total elevation gain than any other state.   Logistics Camping choices will vary across the country between small private campgrounds, city parks, state and national parks, national forests, and the occasional back yard. The northern Oregon coast is a heavily traveled tourist route and is flush with camping and service opportunities. From Oregon eastward through Kansas, you'll find services limited mainly to the towns along the route. Carrying extra water in the West is a good plan. Camping options improve once you're in the Rockies, but you should still expect some long stretches between accommodations and services. Options will increase near tourist areas such as Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks. Kansas is legendary for its hospitality. Camping in city parks is the norm through Kansas and Missouri. Food, water, and overnight accommodations are abundant from Missouri to Virginia.   PLEASE REMEMBER TO CHECK FOR UPDATED ADDENDA BEFORE STARTING A TRIP!       http://www.cyclocamping.com/proddetail.asp?prod=GOTBC-1532 http://www.cyclocamping.com/proddetail.asp?prod=GOTBC-1532 http://www.cyclocamping.com/prodimages/small/GOTBC-1532-1.jpg     Map Features      Adventure Cycling Association developed the best cross-country, loop, coastal and inland cycling routes available, with turn-by-turn directions, detailed navigational instructions for the tricky sections, and elevation profiles in the high country. The maps are also waterproof and sized to fit in a handlebar-bag window or jersey pocket.   ADVENTURE CYCLE MAP INCLUDE:   Service symbols indicating the locations of campgrounds, hostels, motels, gas stations, groceries, restaurants, post offices, and bike shops Narratives with turn-by-turn instructions for traveling in either direction Distances given in miles and kilometers Contour lines providing a general idea of elevation gains and losses Elevation profiles in mountainous regions with major ascents and descents indicated Details about the natural history and cultural heritage along the route A weather chart providing average monthly rainfall and mean temperatures at various points along the route Large-scale detail maps of urban or congested areas Summaries of riding conditions to provide information on road surfaces, traffic volumes, and areas of caution Our Online Addenda, where updates are always available and current These routes are available to you in 300 to 400-mile map sections, so you can plan anything from a weekend trip to a multi-month adventure. Our routes feature the backroads of America where you can experience the communities and rural landscapes that make our country unique. We want you to see a rural America that can't be seen from the freeways. Our generous members and supporters are helping to create and maintain our legacy and gift to the nation -- the Adventure Cycling Route Network.     THE FINER DETAILS OF ADVENTURE CYCLING MAPS   Adventure Cycling Association maps are divided in a dozen 40-60 miles sections (1/2 a day to 1 day biking), this is an example of one of those section:     Bi-directional Narratives: Narratives have detailed turn-by-turn instructions for traveling in either direction. The number preceding each directive indicates the distance you've come since the beginning of the map panel at the matchline. (The number following in parentheses is the distance in kilometers.) Changes in road names and numbers are marked by stars both in the narrative and on the map panel.     Locator Box: The locator box gives an idea of your progress on the map section. For an overview of the route, the Index Map shows a larger scale version of the route's location.     Matchlines: Matchlines are solid pink lines on each end of the map panel intersecting the route. The narrative leads you from matchline to matchline. Once you "reach" the matchline, turn to the next map panel and begin following its narrative, again proceeding from the near matchline to the far matchline.     Service Symbols: Symbols correspond with the service information on the text side of the map, and tell bicyclists what sort of services they will encounter along the route. These include campgrounds, bike shops, grocery stores, libraries, restaurants, post offices, hostels, motels, bed and breakfasts, and hotels.     Elevation Profiles: Elevation profiles indicate major ascents and descents. On the Lewis & Clark Trail maps (as shown here), the profile is attached to each map panel. On other maps, in the mountainous regions of the country, the profile appears in one continuous panel on the text side of the map. (Not all map sections have elevation profiles.)     North Arrow: The north arrow is not necessarily up as it is on most maps, and it changes orientation from panel to panel. This allows as many miles of the route as possible to be depicted on each map panel.     End Mileages: The mileage to either end of the route section is shown at the border of each map panel.     Annual Events and Points of Interest: For your information, selected museums, points of interest, and events are included, where space allows, on the map panels. Museums have a brief description of their exhibits. Annual events have a brief description and the time of year they occur.         Transamerica Route    Astoria, OR, to Yorktown, VA - 12 map set (4,262 mi.)           A CLASSIC ROUTE AS OLD AS BIKECENTENNIAL Grand parks along the TransAm include Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks, among the best in the United States. One additional treat: because this route has been ridden by cyclists for years, many of the cafes, restaurants, and overnight accommodations along the route have kept journals consisting of entries written by cross-country riders from previous years, providing you with a cyclist's history of the route. Plan on around three months (give or take) for the crossing. Some traverse the route quicker, but this leaves less time for sightseeing. This route can be ridden from May through September. Note that snow can occur at any time in the Rocky Mountains, and the highest pass on the route is over 11,500 feet. Although the prevailing weather patterns are from west to east, local wind patterns are more dependent on the passing pressure systems and local terrain, so you can expect your fair share of tailwinds and headwinds regardless of which direction you ride the route.     Astoria, Oregon, with the hills of a miniature San Francisco, is the official beginning-of-the-road. The view from atop the Astoria Column is well worth the uphill pedal. Stretches of beaches, outstanding state parks, steep ascents and descents, and great seafood abound during your first days of riding before you turn inland to the Willamette River Valley. Eugene is the largest city along the route, with about 140,000 residents. Other sizable cities along the way are Missoula, Montana; Pueblo, Colorado; and Carbondale, Illinois. The lush, green western side of the Cascade Mountains is a startling contrast to the dry terrain you'll be riding into after McKenzie Pass. The road over McKenzie Pass literally cuts through an ancient lava field and offers spectacular views of the Three Sisters and other snow-capped volcanic peaks of the Cascades. Central and eastern Oregon is made up of dry, mountainous terrain and is good place to carry extra water. The National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center outside of Baker City is a must-see, and after completing your trip crossing the country, you'll have no trouble relating to the experiences of the early pioneers.   Idaho offers a wonderful ride along the Salmon River, and some interesting Native American historic sites to visit. The route then follows the winding, scenic Lochsa River for the longest ascent of the trip (around 70 miles). You'll climb up and over Lolo Pass, enter Montana, and soon reach the spur into Missoula. Missoula, a college town, provides one of the highlights of the route, featuring Adventure Cycling headquarters with its "cyclist's lounge" and other amenities, along with whatever services you may require in town. Beautiful panoramas and mountain passes await you in Montana.   The views in Yellowstone National Park and of the Grand Tetons in Wyoming are incomparable, and memories will last a lifetime. It's worth an extra day or two off the bike to experience as much as you can of these two phenomenal national parks. Towns such as Dubois and Lander remind you that you're in the West, with their historic architecture and western-style cooking. Lamont is an oasis in the windy, desolate Great Divide Basin, and serves up a mean bowl of chili.   The scenery quickly changes from dry, high desert to alpine as you reach Kremmling, Colorado. Touristy Breckenridge is another great place for a layover day. You begin a long climb to crest the Continental Divide at Hoosier Pass, 11,542 feet, up amongst snow-covered peaks. As the route leaves the Rockies, Royal Gorge Park offers a fun layover day, either for hanging out at the Arkansas River bridge or taking a helicopter ride over or a raft trip through the gorge. Pueblo offers bike shops and great places to eat; it also serves as the halfway point of the TransAm Trail (time to celebrate!). It's a good place to stock up -- it's the largest city you'll pass through until Carbondale, Illinois.   Things start to dry out as you get into the eastern part of Colorado and cross into western Kansas. Carrying extra water is a good idea here -- this is hot, barren country. Right around Haswell, Colorado, you'll see your last hazy glimpse of the Rocky Mountains. Overnights at city parks in Kansas are usually accompanied by cool dips in the city swimming pools. You might have to do some early morning and early evening riding to escape the midday heat. Don't miss the pies at Cookie's in Golden City, Missouri! The flat-as-a-pool-table terrain of the Great Plains will change quickly into the roller-coaster riding of Missouri. You'll find Missouri offers Civil War history, terrific canoeing (at Eminence), and an excellent swimming hole (Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park).   The route crosses the Mississippi River at Chester, Illinois, and heads into Carbondale, another fun college town. A ferry takes you across the Ohio River into Kentucky, where you'll enjoy the evening fireflies at your campsites. Kentucky offers rolling white-fenced farms and woodlands until reaching Berea, the gateway to the Appalachian Mountains. A loop south of the route will take you to see Mammoth Caves National Park, the longest cave system in the world. Past Berea, you'll spend some time ascending and descending the mountains of the Appalachians, and riding part of the Blue Ridge Parkway in Virginia. The mountains turn to rolling hills and then flat riding through lush plantations and farmlands. The last stretch of the route is rich in the history of the American Revolution, with Colonial Williamsburg as the highlight. Yorktown, situated on the Chesapeake Bay, is the route's end.   Terrain Some stretches of the western portion of the route follow large river valleys and can be generally flat, but expect some climbing almost every day between Astoria, Oregon, and Pueblo, Colorado. The passes throughout the Rocky Mountains are generally long but not terribly steep. The descents from these passes are, of course, a blast. Most of Kansas is beautifully flat. Missouri through the Ozarks and eastern Kentucky through the Appalachians offers short, steep climbs. The Virginia portion of the route, surprisingly, has more total elevation gain than any other state.   Logistics Camping choices will vary across the country between small private campgrounds, city parks, state and national parks, national forests, and the occasional back yard. The northern Oregon coast is a heavily traveled tourist route and is flush with camping and service opportunities. From Oregon eastward through Kansas, you'll find services limited mainly to the towns along the route. Carrying extra water in the West is a good plan. Camping options improve once you're in the Rockies, but you should still expect some long stretches between accommodations and services. Options will increase near tourist areas such as Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks. Kansas is legendary for its hospitality. Camping in city parks is the norm through Kansas and Missouri. Food, water, and overnight accommodations are abundant from Missouri to Virginia.   PLEASE REMEMBER TO CHECK FOR UPDATED ADDENDA BEFORE STARTING A TRIP!       http://www.cyclocamping.com/proddetail.asp?prod=GOTBC-1532 http://www.cyclocamping.com/proddetail.asp?prod=GOTBC-1532 http://www.cyclocamping.com/prodimages/small/GOTBC-1532-1.jpg     Map Features      Adventure Cycling Association developed the best cross-country, loop, coastal and inland cycling routes available, with turn-by-turn directions, detailed navigational instructions for the tricky sections, and elevation profiles in the high country. The maps are also waterproof and sized to fit in a handlebar-bag window or jersey pocket.   ADVENTURE CYCLE MAP INCLUDE:   Service symbols indicating the locations of campgrounds, hostels, motels, gas stations, groceries, restaurants, post offices, and bike shops Narratives with turn-by-turn instructions for traveling in either direction Distances given in miles and kilometers Contour lines providing a general idea of elevation gains and losses Elevation profiles in mountainous regions with major ascents and descents indicated Details about the natural history and cultural heritage along the route A weather chart providing average monthly rainfall and mean temperatures at various points along the route Large-scale detail maps of urban or congested areas Summaries of riding conditions to provide information on road surfaces, traffic volumes, and areas of caution Our Online Addenda, where updates are always available and current These routes are available to you in 300 to 400-mile map sections, so you can plan anything from a weekend trip to a multi-month adventure. Our routes feature the backroads of America where you can experience the communities and rural landscapes that make our country unique. We want you to see a rural America that can't be seen from the freeways. Our generous members and supporters are helping to create and maintain our legacy and gift to the nation -- the Adventure Cycling Route Network.     THE FINER DETAILS OF ADVENTURE CYCLING MAPS   Adventure Cycling Association maps are divided in a dozen 40-60 miles sections (1/2 a day to 1 day biking), this is an example of one of those section:     Bi-directional Narratives: Narratives have detailed turn-by-turn instructions for traveling in either direction. The number preceding each directive indicates the distance you've come since the beginning of the map panel at the matchline. (The number follow