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I use Komoot. I also use Ride With GPS but keep finding my way back to Komoot. Let me know if you have more questions.

It’s right there friend. Hope you discover it and enjoy it.

Oh man! That was a booger for sure. Eventually we did get in touch with a Jamis rep over the phone. "Yeah. I've got a few of them sitting right here on my desk..." He sent the bike shop two as if there wasn't an issue at all (never mind the months of being told that there are none in existence and none to be seen on the horizon). A few days later, we bought those two and we still have the spare; thankfully we've not broken another since. That bike is still high-speed and he still rides it.

@gravelgrindingboys oh wow they must not have been looking for the right one. They're all over Amazon, Ebay, Universal Cycles and thru QBP, the first 2 I ordered thru Amazon the 3rd a bike shop here told me "oh yea these are way thicker and stronger than the ones it comes with" took 2 weeks to get and it's the same damn ones I ordered and only lasted one tip over in the early spring winds, they really should be making them out of steel so they don't snap so easily. have yall tried maxing out the tire clearance on it? I just crimped the chainstays on mine in order to fit 29x2.2s, I have the year prior to them having clearance for wider 29x2, I was going to order an S1 frame if it would accept a 29x2.2 but it seems no-one has published anything on it thru the searching I did, the max stated by Jamis is 29x2 but I know sometimes there some wiggle room in there but I gave up sesrching and went ahead and took the C clamp to the chainstays and it turned it into a completely different bike with the Teravail Sparwoods in the lite and supple those things are BOUNCY! Lol

This was 2020…just after the craziness of that bit of… well… you know.

@@gravelgrindingboys i forget this video is 4yo!! My apologies 😬😬

No need to apologize. It’s all good. We’d bought those bikes just before the doo doo hit the oscillator and he broke that derailleur hanger a few weeks later. The bike shop was very helpful. They were going to rob on from an existing bike but they couldn’t even order bikes. It’s such a specific part to a bike and they are not really that expensive (to the manufacturer). A broken derailleur hanger means a broken bike. It’s not like a spoke or something. When the derailleur hanger breaks, the bike is a weight. LOL. Like extra screws with Wal Mart furniture, seems an extra derailleur hanger would be an included part with a new bike.

This! Makes! Me! HAPPY!! Thanks so much for the comment and the motivation. I'm working on Day 6 (as of 10/18/2024).

It actually was. Never can tell about “road closed” signs when on a bike. They often mean “to automobiles” being that this is really not a road per se. It’s a trail. Even on the Palouse to Cascades trail there are “road closed” signs that are set to block automobiles (examples in that series) but allow cyclists. Not sure, but I think I found a road over the pass and around the tunnel. There may be a 14%-er in there…

It is a dilemma for sure. Democracy, republic, and the power of eminent domain…truth be known: the right (easement) of way was given to the railroad. Seems cyclist and hikers have less impact on the land than the train. Not to mention, bulls usually win in a cow-vs-cyclists encounter. But, when up an against a train…instant hamburger (referencing the ranchers). However, I do know many “evil-doers” out there will trespass, start the grazing land on fire, and many use the trail illegally (motorcycles and other ATVs). There’s gates that are left open and other aggravations that come hand in hand when dealing with people. But…we cyclists who follow the rules should not “have to stay in for recess” because of the actions of the few. Federal parks issue $250 fines for breaking rules…if Washington make it a $250 minimum fine for rule breakers and knuckleheads then maybe…

Excellent!! Working on Day 6 now (as of 10/09/2024). A challenging day…that I made harder than it shoulda been. It’ll be a good episode.

Good to know about that closure (10/09/2024 for future reference).

Definitely some rough spots and some deep spots too. I know it’s a slow process and a catch-22. Not enough interest yet to improve and not enough improvement to increase interest. A good trade off: slow going and peace and quiet.

Perfect!! I planed for about a year (through the winter). I did a lot of research too. I’m glad this helps. When you thinking about riding? June is a nice month. Also, study the wind patterns. There’s an app called Windfinder that I found most helpful.

@@gravelgrindingboys Good to know! I was planning at the end of June. (I got kids and it'd be easier for the family if they are out of school while I'm adventuring haha) I'm from here in the PNW so I know that May can still mean rain.

There are areas that would do great on a cruiser bike and there are areas that may require hike-a-bike with anything less than 2” mountains bike tires. I have 700cx47s on my gravel bike and would not ride the JWT (“JWT” is my preference too) on my gravel bike. There are areas that used to be pretty rough…but are very okie-dokie now…lots of improvements happening.

@@gravelgrindingboys Thanks for the reply! I'm always looking for new areas to gravel grind and I love the JWT. I live in Kennewick, in SE WA so looking for spots closer to me than the west side. My best friend moved to Plummer, ID recently so we are exploring that end as well. Sometimes the gravel is more like railroad ballast and pretty miserable to ride on. My gravel bike is on 40mm Panaracers.

Hey there! Thanks much for the comment! June is a good month to ride and not too hot. September would seem to be a good month too. I started “studying” the wind patterns in that area with a weather app called Windfinder. I use this on many of my trips (before I go). Some times I can plan my time to leave in the morning based on an afternoon prediction of the wind picking up (head or tail). - Your trip will be a memory-maker for sure.

Hey friend! Thanks much!

I'm with you...I do like the woods when I bikepack. We did the Kettle Valley Rail Trail in Canada the month after I did the PTC and trees, trees, and more trees...oh...and bear (three of them fat dudes). It was awesome (videos to follow this fall [2024]).

@@gravelgrindingboys I did the KVR a few years ago and got rained on. Every. Single. Day. Still fun though!

No rain on us. Thank goodness! Midway to Hope and maybe a single light shower.

Seattle doe offer some very okie-dokie bike trails and bike lanes. Very nice ones. My small town claims bike friendly as well. And there are some nice trails around my home. I think what I enjoyed about Seattle and the surrounding areas was the lengths of the trails. You can spend all day on a trail there in the Seattle metro and not see the same thing twice. Where I live there are trails that take you here and there but not for the distance. Road riding or gravel ridding are the options and that’s A-OK. But, I do prefer a nice trail…safe…sound…and…well, you get it.

It's for real. Some will pass me so close that I can smell their aftershave and then pull over for an emergency vehicle 100 yards away (true story). But?? Didn't they just about cause the need for an emergency vehicle? I think folks "see" differently from the seat of a car or truck. They don't "see" a human driving another vehicle or ridding a bike. "That car cut me off!" And, "I was behind a bicycle..." They don't see a father, grandfather, husband, son, veteran, nurse,...or even "human." There...done with that bit of soap boxing...LOL-ish.

There are some bike issues that when they break...it stops the trip dead cold. The bike shop guy calls me the "boy scout." I pack just about everything from an extra Derailleur Hanger to extra hex bolts. If I don't bring it, I'll need it. If I bring it, I'll not need it. Generally the "rule." That was a bit of a haul there from Crab creek to Moses Lake. Did a weld break on your rack? Wonder if your issue is something I should prepare for...that "boy scout" in me (LOL).

This! Makes! Me! Happy!! Thanks for this comment and motivation. I do appreciate it so much!!

I’m running tubeless. It’s tricky those fat tires. There are so many “points” where they can fail. Rule #1: don’t leave the tubeless fat tire in the sun…the sealant “plugs” fail and it’s a booger to keep from loosing air. However, I had zero issues with those tires on that trip. I like 10psi. Good on both pavement and gravel. A bit on the rougher riding on rougher terrain. However, 10psi works well for me. Keep in mind…I have two inner tubes in one of those front fork bags along with plenty of extra sealant and a high-pressure pump. Weight was worth the peace of mind with goat heads / puncture weeds being my biggest concern this side of the Columbia. Glad to say that I never saw one thorn. But, you know what they say, “bring it and you’ll not need it. Leave it, and you’ll wish you had it.”

Thank you very much!

Ha! Good to hear! LOL. Thanks so much for the feedback and the love! I need your motivation today!

@@gravelgrindingboys I think of your escapades and get on my bike!

I got a bit worried for sure. Tired to keep my spirits high and said to myself, "it is what it is." But, things worked out very well.

I was a bit confused over the locks too. On Day 6, they have some latch systems on one of the detours that was very okie-dokie! I am sure there's a budget issue somewhere and hope that in the future this is a non-issue. YES! Thank you Washington State Parks, Ralston Grange, and every one who works to keep this trail open and "bicycle-able."

I love this comment. Thank you so much for the motivation.

Thanks so much. Initially, I planned just to take a few videos, edit them when I got home, and make a one-and-done TH-cam video. But this trail is too epic for only one Video. Too much to see and do.

For sure. I didn't mind them too much. Really hope this trail "punches" all the way though one day (and I am sure it will if there's enough interest). And yes...I pack three liters of water in a bladder in my frame bag...after while...it gets kinda warm and...well...you know. Not so "refreshing." I am glad to have that little GoPro 8. It does a pretty good job stabilizing the videos. The iPhone does too if I hold it still and to slow pans. Maybe next year will be a GoPro (whatever the new one is) and a Nikon Z30 for filming. Maybe... Thanks so much for the comment and the motivation.

That sur nuf get you in trouble. That's for sure. Like wind in my face, lifting that bike builds muscle and unloading / loading builds patience. I need both. But...then again...there's a little evil-thinkin' in us all. Keep that little devil tucked away. LOL

Or make a lightweight pair of bolt cutters! Have you let the state parks folks know about the locks and bad combinations?

Hey friend! Thanks so much!!

very good narration, i agree. he could have a career in radio.

Yes sir...that aspiration is needed...but once you "catch the bug" to ride this trail, it won't let go. The one thing that always holds true: one pedal at a time and one turn of the crank at a time. Eventually, given enough turns...you'll find yourself where you intended to go. I gave myself 7-days to ride this and pretty much took my time. Day 6 will be a different story but...then...there's always next year (or maybe even this year if I can squeeze it in (and stay warm enough).

Washington is a VERY okie-dokie state. We enjoy our time there...and quite often. Made some good friends in Washington over the years. I appreciate your comment...yes I do!

Oh dang. Now I have to go back and do it all over again. LOL. I do appreciate this. I’m already planning next year’s trip. Seems I missed quite a bit along the way. With all the comments I’ve received and knowing the trail…I suspect I’ll have more to see and do next time.

I wish I’d met more equestrians in the trail (makes for good video and also a nice chat). I pull over and wait for the horse to pass and usually carry on a conversation with the rider.

@@gravelgrindingboysMost of us ride that trail spring and fall-better temperatures, and a good place to go when the hills are too snowy or muddy for horses.

Oh. Spoilers…LOL. Send me an IM on Facebook Messenger and let’s have a conversation about Day 6. Day 5 is out so yeah…the Grange can be opened by the graces of Mr Randy. He’s one of the finest folks you’ll meet in your lifetime (trust me) and is very accommodating. I’m not sure about power in the park but the grange building has power. I’d DEFINITELY ask for permission in plugging in. I’d imagine a few kilowatts being needed for a charge and that costs money (plus sets a precedent). I’d definitely suggest a nice donation for energy. They have some protein bars and things they sell…energy in the form of calories and not electricity but energy all the same. Rosalia is a good bit away and there are some significant detours along the way. I would make sure you’re able to either power your device for that distance or make sure you are capable of me-biking the device to the next power spot if you start to red-line. It’s pretty remote out there. Actually, very remote. And…there is PRIVATE PROPERTY to the left and right of the trail. If you breakdown or your battery dies…some of those ranchers and land owners don’t care. If you try to cross over private property, “understanding” is not expected. FYI. Also….don’t forget to register on the Washington Parks Website.

@@gravelgrindingboys I'm not a big IM Facebook Messenger user, but I think I figured it out. Sent two messages. Please let me know if you if they don't show up.

My son gets cramps so bad on these long rides. I’ve learned two things: stop periodically and electrolytes. This is an Amazon (affiliate) link to what seems to work for him: amzn.to/4gM0VQi. I did a double-century about a month ago and started to feel that cramp sensation. This trail makes a century very possible. Mainly flat and no traffic.

This is the BEST comment!! Yes. I bet them waking up bears would love a bit of sweet potato and Me Too…that was after a winter of seasonal “marbling.” I’d been delicious too…now at the end of the summer…I’d be too chewy. - And you’re right…some times it is best to just turn around and try another day.

Absolutely! Been working on Day 5 and Day 6 will be out later. They take a bit of time to put together and I’ve been publishing them as I finished the videos. I appreciate you! And your message is a motivation. I hope to have Day 5 out this week and Day 6 out shortly after (as of 09/29/2024).

Hey Friend! Yes. The sandy areas are somewhat coarse but deeper than I expected. There were a lot of SSS from more-narrow tires “catching” in the deeper stuff. Those fat tires rolled right over most of the obstacles that trail threw at me. However, I found the trailbed to be better than described by others. But, then again…I do know that smooth, easy-to-ride, flat trails don’t make for good stories over beer after the ride (fear not -- this trail is far from smooth and easy-to-ride [stories will abound!]). 2.3-inch tires: YES! I think you will do okay. And, if (if) you end up having to hike-a-bike, you’ll likely roll a bit faster on some of the smoother surfaces. You may (may) walk some but you may out pace my 9-11 miles per hour (though I didn’t pay any attention to speed until afterwards…I just enjoyed the ride). My son and I rode the Kettle Valley Rail Trail from Midway to Hope (Canada). He has a Surly Krampus with 2.6-inch tires and did very well (that trail’s surface is very rough with river crossings and other surface issues). I know his bike with his 2.6-inch tires would do fine on the PTC Trail. I would not buy a fat tire for this trail specifically (I justified the fat tire because of the snow we get in north Idaho and I commute most every day). The fat tire is what I had when it was time to prep for this PTC Trail. And I enjoyed it very much. BUT!! If you need a reason for a New Bike Day…rock on friend! You’ve got my blessing (LOL). Seriously though, if anything, I’d see if your bike can take a larger tire…if so…that’d be the only thing I’d change. If you can’t go bigger, I’d ride it on those 2.3 inch tires. Time of year: YES…June or September. I talked to a few that had to wait out those 100 degree days. There is very little water out there. When you make reservations (if you go that route), pay a little extra for the options to cancel or change. I too am already planning for next year’s ride.

You speak truth brother! Much of the signage still has the John Wayne Trail identity.

I appreciate that! If my success in pronouncing these name of places was a batting average, I’d struggle to make little league (LOL). Thanks for the comment and the motivation!

Yes. Those two Crab Creek Bridges were beautiful. They really put some design work into those. Before the Beverly Bridge, I hear folks having to cut down and cross on the I90. I’ve ridden interstates before (and interstate-like highways in Canada), I don’t like that interstate ridding none. So grateful for those bridges and hopeful for more in the future.

I totally messed that one up (LOL). Thanks for the comment…making notes for next time.

@@gravelgrindingboys Just wait till you do a trip/vid through Issaquah, Pend Oreille, Kahlotus, or Wahkiakum.

That’s good stuff right there! I think I have some of those down especially the Ponderay…Pend Oreille…I live a rock’s throw from its shores.

I’m always up for new bathrooms! Some areas are just “hold it” for sure. Others areas…wellllll… The trail is very nice and well maintained on the west side. The east side is being well maintained and I think Washington Parks is doing a good job working on the east side. Yes. Work in progress.

It was very strange when rode up from the Trail of the Olympian. I’ve never been on that side of the long tunnel and no one was there. It’s usually packed. I had planned on seeing folks and picking up a few waters (very bad planning on my part). After it was all said and done, I realized that I may should have planned that ride before September 15th (the “closed” date). I did find a few hunters on the trail that day and even a few ATVers (but the ATVs were not on the areas on the other side of the gates). - Navigation App: I’ve been using Komoot for years. Thinking about changing to Ride With GPS this next year. Not sure yet. I’ve even been thinking about an entirely different device other that a phone app (but I’ll do more “thinking” before going that route. Hope this helps.

when it says road closed at that point you are trespassing unless you got permission we didn’t see, not acceptable

Not necessarily. There are many instances where the road closed signs are up for motorists and not cyclists. Many of the gates have areas for bikes and equestrians to pass but not motorists or ATVs. Saw many hunters that day. Just got done with the Palouse to Cascade State Park Trail. Across the trail where many signs that said road closed, especially on the US Army Yakima training grounds. Those indicated that the trail was closed to motorists but not cyclists. I could be wrong. But then again, why would I be wrong? I’m on a bicycle. On a bike trail. I’m not real sure what harm was done. But again, I’ve been known to be wrong.

@@gravelgrindingboys you were going into a construction zone

I’m all for longer if it saves me hills, wind, and car traffic. LOL! I’m making notes for next year. Posting these videos has been more educational and enjoyable than the folks I made them for. I appreciate you!!

Thank you for sharing.

Thank you. Making notes (LOL). May ride this trail again next year.

Creating these videos has me saying, “next time I ride this trail I will to ‘this-and-that’ differently.” Most of these idea have come from the comments like your’s here. That detour off the trail at the end of day 4 and the beginning of day 5 was a drag for sure. Your idea for back roads is a great one! I wonder if there is a back path…even if it’s longer…that would be safer and with more interesting things to see? I’m like you; I bet there’s a better way. Maybe not faster but better.