Expert · 6–8 Days
Alpine Traverse
Above the Clouds
Duration
6–8 Days
Distance
200–280 km
Elevation
16,000 m cumulative gain
Group Size
4–8 riders
The Alpine Traverse is Rideup's hardest chapter and the one guides talk about most. It crosses the Cascade Range from east to west — snowfields, glacial moraines, and the kind of exposed ridgeline riding that demands your full attention from first pedal stroke to last. Group size is capped at eight riders. This is not a tour for anyone still figuring out their limits.
What to Expect
- Snowfield crossings and glacial moraine navigation
- Exposed ridgeline traverses above 2,800 m
- Cascade Range crossing, east to west
- Group capped at 8 — the most personal Rideup experience
- Glacier meltwater river crossings (seasonal)
Itinerary Overview
Day 1
Leavenworth Base Camp
Arrive in Leavenworth, WA. Altitude acclimatisation ride, guide meeting, gear audit.
Day 2
Icicle Creek Climb
Long approach day — 60 km gaining 2,800 m. The hardest day on paper; the one riders remember most.
Day 3
Snowfield Hike-a-Bike
Above the tree line. Ice axe sections. Views of Mount Stuart and the Stuart Range.
Day 4–5
Cascade Crest & Descent
Crossing the crest into the western Cascades. Two descent days through old-growth Douglas Fir.
Day 6–8
Rainier Corridor Finish
The final segment skirts Mount Rainier. Camp at Carbon River before the final trail into Carbonado.
Starting price
From $3,100 per rider
Includes guide, camp support, and emergency cover. Excludes flights and bike rental.
Request This TourAdd Bike RentalDifficultyExpert
Next departure2027 season
Min. experience2+ years trail riding