Route Link: [https://ridewithgps.com/routes/49750297](https://ridewithgps.com/routes/49750297) My Ride: [https://ridewithgps.com/trips/258959134](https://ridewithgps.com/trips/258959134) Total Time: 12:05 Ride Time: 11:16 Miles: 188.1 Elevation: 5,525 ft In Oregon Randonneuring, Grab Bag routes have been a mainstay for years. These rides, typically offered in March, come with a choice of 200k or 300k. Until recently, they were only available as brevets—international club-sanctioned routes. But in 2025, a new Grab Bag series was approved as permanents, meaning they're nationally sanctioned and open to ride anytime. This was my second attempt at the 300k. My first try in February ended with disappointment. Just four miles from the second-to-last control, the snow was too deep. I had to turn around, 180 miles all in but no credit for the ride. This time, in the second week of March, the snow had melted, the wind looked good, and I needed saddle time. I set out from North Plains' Jessie Mays Park in cool 40-degree temps. A little chilly on the fingers at first, but that's winter cycling. The route wound through farm roads toward Carlton, a sleepy town 35 miles in. Then back to Jessie Mays Park for resupply and a change from winter to summer gear. Next up, the climb towards Dairy Creek—a favorite stretch of mine. Low traffic and a 1-2% grade make for good power zone work. More farm country riding followed, including the iconic Plumlee Road. Dense forest, cow barns, plant nurseries—it's Oregon in a nutshell. Back at Jessie Mays Park, I resupplied, popped some ibuprofen, and headed out for the final 60 miles. These were the toughest, with 130 miles already in my legs. The Banks-Vernonia Trail was a treat, even thought it's a slog. Long climbs, a trestle bridge, wooden bridges, and a cool forest canopy. Turning around in Vernonia was a relief, knowing I had a 13-mile downhill. Exiting the forest with the sunset was magical. Rabbits and deer seemed to think so too. A quick water refill at the trailhead, and I retraced the remaining 8 miles. Arriving at the finish, there was just a shimmer of light left. A wonderful ending to an amazing day. **Things to consider if you plan to ride this route:** - Watch your cues carefully. Ride with GPS will get confused. - Resupply using your vehicle to avoid carrying extra gear. - Be mindful of the many railroad crossings. - Don't miss cues or turns from boredom with repeated roads. - In winter, expect snow on the Banks-Vernonia Trail.