Greenbluff Meadows Airport loop via Children of the Sun Trail & North Bruce Road

This loop is rated as difficult and covers approximately 68.7 km (42.7 miles). On average, it takes about 4 hours and 18 minutes to complete by touring bicycle, but your actual time may vary depending on your pace and stops.

The route offers varied terrain. You'll experience smooth, paved asphalt on the Children of the Sun Trail, which features rolling hills. In the Green Bluff area, including North Bruce Road, expect wide, well-paved roads winding through farms and more significant, 'hard-earned climbs' through rolling hills. Be prepared for both dedicated multi-use paths and roads shared with vehicle traffic.

Given its difficult rating, significant distance (68.7 km), and over 670 meters of elevation gain, this route is generally not recommended for beginners. The Green Bluff section, in particular, involves challenging climbs. Cyclists should have a good level of fitness and experience with touring cycling.

The best time to cycle this loop is typically during the spring, summer, and fall months. These seasons offer pleasant weather for cycling and allow you to fully enjoy the scenic rural landscapes of Green Bluff and the paved sections of the Children of the Sun Trail. Always check local weather conditions before you go.

While specific parking for an 'Airport loop' isn't detailed, you can typically find parking near access points for the Children of the Sun Trail. Many parks and neighborhoods along the trail offer parking. For the Green Bluff section, look for public parking areas in the small communities or consider starting from a point that allows for safe roadside parking if permitted.

The Children of the Sun Trail is a multi-use path, and dogs are generally allowed on leash. For the sections on public roads in Green Bluff, dogs are permitted as long as they are under control. Always ensure your dog is leashed and you clean up after them, especially on shared paths and in public areas.

No, you do not need any special permits or have to pay entrance fees to cycle this loop. It primarily utilizes public roads and multi-use trails like the Children of the Sun Trail, which are free to access.

This route offers a mix of natural and man-made sights. You'll pass by the scenic Boulder Beach and the Upriver Dam Reservoir. The Children of the Sun Trail itself offers scenic views, sometimes passing through basalt canyons. The Green Bluff area is known for its 'extraordinarily beautiful' rural scenery with farms and rolling hills.

Yes, this route incorporates significant sections of the Children of the Sun Trail. It also intersects with or runs alongside parts of the Spokane River Centennial Trail and other smaller paths like the Sekani-Shields Connector.

While the Children of the Sun Trail connects neighborhoods, the Green Bluff area is more rural. It's advisable to carry sufficient water and snacks, especially for the longer stretches. You might find small shops or cafes in the communities along the route, particularly in Green Bluff, but it's best to plan ahead.

The Green Bluff area is known for its 'hard-earned climbs.' If you prefer to tackle the more challenging uphill sections when you're freshest, consider starting your loop in a way that puts the Green Bluff climbs earlier in your ride. This allows you to enjoy the more gradual rolling hills of the Children of the Sun Trail later.