Route 542, from the town of Glacier, climbs 4200 vertical feet in 24.5 miles through rugged, mountainous terrain to its summit at Artist’s Point. 2.7 miles past the Mount Baker Ski Area, this destination is only open for 3 short months out of every year and offers 360 degree views of the surrounding alpine forest and mountain peaks.
A few years back I discovered Stossel Creek Road, which connects Cherry Valley, just east of Duvall WA, with Ben Howard Road, a popular motorcycling venue that parallels the Skykomish River to Monroe. My first crossing was on a mountain bike. The second time, a year or so later, on a VStrom 1000. So, as the new owner of an XR650L, unfamiliar with available fire service roads in the area, this was the first (and only) off road opportunity that came to mind.
Headed for Maui this year? If so, consider a day trip around the east end of the island. And make sure you select the right motorcycle for the twisty, rolling (and often guava littered) road to Hana. In this ride report you’ll find details on island motorcycle rental, a great place to eat lunch in Hana and, of course, lots of pictures from the trip.
|
|
|
|---|
