We did this ride back then too when it was called Ride 542, still have the socks. We camped just outside Glacier and had terrific weather the day of the ride.
We rode again in 2019, completely different experience, cold rain almost the entire final climb. Going up wasn’t bad but the descent was horrific. Hands were numb and we were shivering by the time we got to the lodge, people were trying to warm up and the organizers were trying to shuttle people off the mountain. We decided to carry on and it wasn’t bad below that, rain let up and it got warmer. I enjoy riding without cars on the road and scenic climbs but not if you’re cold, wet and can’t see anything it’s not much fun.
We’re watching the forecast and if it still looks good next week we’ll sign up and head up there. It’s not the cool festival it was but it’s still a great ride and atmosphere. Fingers crossed this good weather holds.