Alright, how about this:
Mar. 23rd, 2009 01:23 pm806 miles.
From Yellowstone to Crater Lake: Ascent of 21,512 feet, descent of 24,852 feet.
From Crater Lake to Yellowstone: Ascent of 24,852 feet, descent of 21,512 feet.

This route doesn't catch Hell's Gate, but it does catch the Craters Of The Moon National Park, and it's about a third shorter. I could ride this in a month.
Elevation data:

A climb of 3000 feet is nothing to sneeze at. I ascended at least that much when going to the Lick Observatory last winter, and it was exhausting and took more than a proper day's riding. But still, I'm having trouble deciding which direction to go. Is it best to begin at Yellowstone, after X days of hiking and driving through Utah? Or is it best to begin at Crater Lake and end up at Yellowstone?
From Yellowstone to Crater Lake: Ascent of 21,512 feet, descent of 24,852 feet.
From Crater Lake to Yellowstone: Ascent of 24,852 feet, descent of 21,512 feet.
This route doesn't catch Hell's Gate, but it does catch the Craters Of The Moon National Park, and it's about a third shorter. I could ride this in a month.
Elevation data:
A climb of 3000 feet is nothing to sneeze at. I ascended at least that much when going to the Lick Observatory last winter, and it was exhausting and took more than a proper day's riding. But still, I'm having trouble deciding which direction to go. Is it best to begin at Yellowstone, after X days of hiking and driving through Utah? Or is it best to begin at Crater Lake and end up at Yellowstone?
no subject
Date: 2009-03-23 09:05 pm (UTC)no subject
Date: 2009-03-24 12:51 am (UTC)As near as I can tell, the main problem with the route shown on your map is that you'd be spending about half the trip in Idaho.
I suggest you bring approximately 500,000 Mr. Potato Head parts.
no subject
Date: 2009-03-24 07:52 am (UTC)"You go to Idaho.... Just to watch 'em grow...
MIGHT AS WELL FACE IT YOU'RE ADDICTED TO SPUDS"