The 23rd Annual Michigander Bicycle Tour began with 2-day and 7-day riders cycling the Pere Marquette State Rail Trail, making their way from Farwell to Reed City. A beautiful pure Michigan summer night greeted Friday night campers in Farwell.
Saturday Morning came and the ride was smooth sailing on the paved Pere Marquette State Rail Trail. Today’s 35.9 mile ride passed through Evart, where the themed SAG stop was Hoppin’ along the Bunny Trail. Water, Gatorade, salt-water taffies, and bunny galore made a nice rest stop for Michigander riders.
The rain held out until Saturday evening in Reed City, where 6-day riders checked in and went to their safety meetings. Heavy rain continued throughout the night, but cleared up for a beautiful day of riding on Sunday.
On Sunday morning, riders started the nearly 60 mile trek to Mesick with cooler temperatures, riding along the White Pine Trail and finishing up the ride on back roads. The Harrietta Garden Club provided riders with delicious baked goods and fun at the Harrietta Fish Hatchery.
After dinner, showers and a riders meeting, Mary Adams from the International Headlands Dark Sky Park showed riders the constellations of the high sky, with entertaining and fascinating storytelling.
Tomorrow, riders tackle the 45.7 mile trek to Frankfort on the Betsie Valley Trail! Happy riding!
Michigan Trails and Greenways Alliance 