This was the older version of the Columbia Metric Challenge. The new version starts in St. Helens and is a slightly different route. This ride starts off with a serious climb, over 1000 feet in the first few miles. Things got a little interesting when reaching Apirary Rd. (mile 14.1). There is a sign stating the road is closed at MP 17.4, roughly 10 miles from the turn onto Apiary Rd. Was hoping to circumnavigate the issue and not have to turn around. Also, lots of logging operations going on along Apiary Rd. Need to be extra vigilant watching for log trucks. Reached the road closure and, after talking with the construction guys, was able to carry my bike across the very short bridge construction. More road work on Highway 47 into Mist. Nice rest stop in Mist (mile 34.6). Needed this stop as there is a daunting 4 mile hill immediately after riding by the grade school. Most of the climb is at 6-8% grade. Not surprisingly, multiple road work projects on the climb. There is a nice 5.5 mile downhill into Clatskanie. Next rest stop was at a park on the east side of town (mile 47.4). West to northwest wind 10 mph with gusts to 15 mph from Clatskanie to the finish, especially on Highway 30. More climbing on Swedetown Rd, leading to a more brutal climb on Cedar Grove Rd. This is a 1 mile climb at 10-12% grade. The final 8 miles covers Highway 30 (for 1.5 miles), then Old Ranier Rd (with another 0.6 mile climb at the schools) and finally a 2.2 mile downhill back into Ranier.