50 years, and how far we've come!

In July 1970, two young brothers named Mike and Rick Quam called a public meeting to discuss bicycling in the Puget Sound region. Sons of a trail advocate, the Quam brothers saw the need for a bicycle club that wouldn’t just organize recreational group rides, but would also promote the development of bicycle trails in Washington. Thirty people united by a love of bicycling attended the first public meeting and together, they grew the club, engaging a membership of 300 people within just two years.

How far we’ve come! This summer we’ll celebrate 50 years with our bicycle community, and we’re ready to keep building on the progress we’ve made with your support! Read on for some momentous projects we’ve seen come to life over the years…

In 1970, the first membership fee was established at $2; meetings were at Luther Burbank Park on Mercer Island. The first newsletter, The Freewheeler, was produced that year.

In 1972, Cascade began lobbying for the Burke-Gilman Trail.

In 1979, Cascade established the Seattle to Portland Bicycle Classic (now known as the STP). 

In 1981, Cascade produced its first logo. 

By 1990, Cascade moved into its first office, on Ravenna Boulevard, and took on a paid director.

In 1991, the Seattle to Portland ride had a record 10,000 participants. 

In 1999, Cascade moved to Warren G. Magnuson Park. That year, the Ride Around Washington began its inaugural tour. 

In 2008, Cascade launched the Major Taylor Project in two schools with 30 students.

In 2014, Cascade moved its headquarters into the Cascade Bicycling Center, overlooking Lake Washington in Warren G. Magnuson Park. 

In 2015, Cascade produced three new events: Ride for Major Taylor, Woodinville Wine Ride, and Seattle Night Ride.

In 2016, Cascade Bicycle Club and Washington Bikes merged to form the largest statewide bicycle nonprofit in the country. 

In 2018, Cascade took part in the largest group ebike ride with 406 participants, setting a new Guinness World Record.

In 2019, Cascade hosted the largest cycling event in the nation with 12,095 riders participating in the one time Tunnel Ride.

Thanks to you and all of the Cascade Bicycle Club family of supporters, we’ve made huge strides in bicycle policy, education, and riding events, and we can’t wait to see what 2020 brings. 

Interested in helping to shape another 50 years of all things bicycle across Washington state? Visit our website to learn about getting involved in bicycle advocacy or volunteering with us.