A bicyclist at Crater Lake.

Traffic-free views of Crater Lake will be on offer during the national park’s annual Ride the Rim events Sept. 7 and 14.

On both days, no motorized vehicles will be allowed on East Rim Drive from its junction with North Entrance Road to park headquarters. So far, more than 1,200 people have registered for a tradition that has drawn visitors from around the U.S. and several countries.

“There’s no better way to experience the breathtaking beauty of Crater Lake than from the seat of a bike, on foot or running — all without worrying about traffic,” Marsha McCabe, a public information officer for Crater Lake National Park, said in press materials.

“It looks like everyone else is just as pumped as we are, with 1,200 people already registered for the two weekends,” McCabe said. “So gear up, get ready and join us for an unforgettable adventure in one of nature’s most stunning playgrounds.”

The vehicle-free route is about 25 miles long and will be closed to motorized vehicles from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Park officials say that people bicycling the distance typically take about four hours. Riders are urged to stop at lake overlooks to enjoy views of the country’s deepest lake.

For those who complete the entire Rim Drive, the distance is 33 miles, with about eight of those miles open to motorized vehicles. The section has significant inclines and narrow switchbacks.

All participants are reminded that the 25-mile section has steep inclines and declines. With a total elevation gain of 3,500 feet, the ride is recommended for intermediate to advanced riders. Caution is urged on downhills, where some cyclists reach speeds of up to 40 mph. The park is located at an elevation of 5,000-plus feet above sea level, which can especially impact riders from lower elevations.

What can riders expect the weather to be like?

“Anything and everything!” McCabe said in press materials. “In the past we’ve had sunny, windless days and snow, sleet and hail on others. The point is, come ready for anything and check the weather before you come. And please, please, please wear sunscreen no matter what the weather looks like. Being at a higher elevation, you can burn even on the coolest of days.”

A shuttle service will be provided along West Rim Drive and transport people, but not bikes. Pickup and drop-off locations include park headquarters, Rim Village and North Junction.

Bike rentals are available in Klamath Falls and Redmond, but not at the park.

A common question: Are eBikes allowed at Ride the Rim?

Yes, they are allowed if the eBike is not self-propelled in any way. Park officials note that if self-propelled eBikes were allowed, “the Ride is no longer a vehicle-free event, which is a major attraction for Ride the Rim participants.” Self-propelled bikes are allowed, however, on the Rim any other day.

Although Ride the Rim is a free event, park entrance fees are still required. The summer entrance fees include $30 for a private vehicle, $25 for a motorcycle, $15 for a cyclist or $55 for a 12-month pass. It is advisable to buy a pass online before the event to help reduce the waiting time at the entrance station.

Water and snacks will be available at rest stops, so participants are urged to carry refillable water bottles.

Sag wagons will not be available, so bikers are urged, if necessary, to be prepared to fix flat tires and make other repairs.

Vehicle parking will be available at the Steel Visitor Center and North Junction, which has limited parking. Free bike corrals will be located at both locations.

Merchandise, including T-shirts, hats, jerseys and hoodies, is available only through the event website and will not be available for purchase or pickup at the event. Discover Klamath, a Ride the Rim sponsor, provides items for purchase through its website, discoverklamathshop.com.

For more information and to register visit ridetherim.com.