Bicycle shuttle for cyclists resumes

COEUR d’ALENE — Cyclists will again be shuttled through the Interstate 90 construction zone in North Idaho as the reconstruction project continues this summer from Mullan to the Montana state line, which includes the popular Lolo Pass recreation area.

This service is designed to enhance safety through the work zone, which is particularly dangerous for bicyclists. The shuttle also was offered last summer during Phase I of the reconstruction.

The work is expected to resume April 11 and finish by this fall. ITD is offering the shuttle to take cyclists to the top/bottom of the project.

Many touring cyclists are planning their trips for this spring, summer and fall. The shuttle phone number will be the same as last year: (208) 755-3230. This phone will be activated April 4.

Alternative routes to avoid the shuttle and I-90 construction:

Northern route (going westbound)

Exit I-90 at Regis, Mont. Go east on Highway 135 to Highway 200. Go north to Thompson Falls. Turn west onto Montana Secondary Highway 471 to Thompson Pass. Continue over the pass into Idaho, passing through Murray, Prichard, Enaville and Kingston. Rejoin I-90 at Exit 43. The road is paved all the way, is very scenic and frequently used by cyclists.

Southern route (going westbound)

Note: There is no viable southern option for road cyclists.

However, if bicycles are set up for gravel, such as a mountain bike or a bike with at least 700x32c tires; there is a much shorter detour. The NorPac Trail is only 11.5 miles long. Going westbound, the trail starts at the Lookout Pass Ski Area on I-90. Details can be found at bit.ly/1WVD6Fu.