New Shuttle for Hikers to Snoqualmie Pass

I'm a bit of a fanatic about using bikes and buses to get around, and I've previously written about the topic here and here. Well, I just received some great news this morning: Washington State Parks is starting a shuttle to carry bikers and hikers up I-90 to Snoqualmie Pass, beginning today, July 11.

The new "Bus-Up 90 Shuttle" will run Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays and starts at Cedar Falls, which is near Rattlesnake Lake outside North Bend. The shuttle runs to Hyak, east of Snoqualmie Pass. The ride will be air-conditioned and the shuttle has room for backpacking gear, plus a trailer to provide transport for bikes. The shuttle is primarily intended for folks intending to hike or bike down the John Wayne Trail, a 20.5-mile gravel path that follows the old Milwaukee Railroad.

The shuttle will also provide return service and apparently can make stops at trailheads along the western I-90 corridor if you pre-arrange it. There will be three departures daily from Cedar Falls and Hyak. You can find the schedule here.

This is simply awesome!

I've always thought a shuttle system up I-90 would be great idea...fantastic for tourists visiting from out of town, for those who don't own a car, and those wanting to leave their cars at home. The one downside is it's not particularly cheap: $20 for adults, and $15 for seniors (65 +) youth (age 6 to 15) and active military. There is no charge for children under age 6 when accompanied by paying adults.

Passengers' bicycles will be accommodated on a space available basis. Group and family discounts are also available. Fares are cash only.
You need to reserve the shuttle in advance. Call 877-BUS UP 90  (877-287-8790) or visit the the Bus-Up 90 website.

If you want to go completely carless from Seattle, you'll want to bring your bike and take either the Metro 214 bus to North Bend (weekdays only) or on Saturdays take the Sound Transit 554 to Issaquah Park & Ride and transfer to the Metro 209 route to North Bend. It's about a 5-mile bike ride from North Bend to the Cedar Falls parking lot. Note that there is no bus service to or from North Bend on Sundays.

I'll be taking this shuttle later this hiking season and I'll let you know how it goes....