Bainbridge drivers and ferry travelers should be on the lookout for boatloads of bicyclists as the annual Chilly Hilly Bicycle Classic returns to the island on Sunday, Feb. 23.

Washington State Ferries advises drivers on the Bainbridge Island-Seattle route to anticipate delays due to heavy bicycle traffic boarding, as more than 3,000 cyclists are expected to board ferries for the island, and vehicle capacity will be limited on the 7:55 a.m., 8:55 a.m., 9:35 a.m., and 10:40 a.m. departures from Seattle.

Departing the Bainbridge Island Ferry Terminal, the heaviest traffic is expecting on sailings between 11:35 a.m. and 3 p.m. To minimize delays, WSF recommends that drivers consider alternative travel times or routes.

Long the start the riding season in the Pacific Northwest, now celebrating its 48th year, Chilly Hilly is a 33-mile route around Bainbridge Island that starts with a scenic morning ferry ride across Puget Sound from Seattle. Riders may also join the crowd directly on Bainbridge.

Visit www.cascade.org/rides-and-events-major-rides/chilly-hilly to learn more.