Over 470 riders joined together to celebrate 31 years of cycling along Lake Michigan’s beautiful coastline during our Shoreline West Bicycle Tour.
Riders came from 27 states and as far as Honolulu, HI to cycle August 5-12. Cyclists who participated ranged in age from 11 to 80 years old.
The tour began in Montague, MI, where riders had a free-day to set up camp and explore the city. Some riders spent their day golfing, swimming in Duck Lake, or simply enjoying the camaraderie of fellow cyclists. The next morning, cyclists departed, following a 59 mile route to Ludington on their first day. Many cyclists made a pit stop at The Cherry Market, where they savored delicious coffee and cherry turnovers.
From Ludington, riders road through a few strenuous climbs to Frankfort. Cyclists passed through the charming cities of Onekama and Manistee. On their way, riders conquered Arcadia Hill, know as Watermelon Hill, where 24 huge watermelons were severed at the top.
Cyclists then rode 62 miles from Frankfort to Traverse City where they rode through Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. The rolling hills treated cyclists through beech-maple forests, past coastal dunes, and as high as 480 feet above Lake Michigan.
Once in Traverse City, bicyclists enjoyed a lay over day to see what the city had to offer. Some rode to Old Mission Peninsula while others rested or visited the many quaint shops downtown.
The next route brought riders, for the first year ever, to East Jordan. Riders passed rolling sunflower fields on their way through Elk Rapids. Cyclists followed Torch Lake and then the peaceful countryside out of Elk Rapids and to East Jordan.
From there, riders had 2 options of routes to take on their way to Harbor Springs. On that day, Cyclists participated in “spirit day” where they wore their college jersey, club jersey, or their favorite ride jersey.
The last leg was through one of Michigan’s most scenic and historic drives known as, “Tunnel of the Trees”. Once riders saw the towers of the Mackinac Bridge peeking over the trees, they knew they were close to their final destination at Mackinaw City.
The week was filled with great weather and beautiful views. To see more pictures, be sure to check out Shoreline West’s Facebook page. Thank you to all the wonderful riders and volunteers that made this year one for the books!
Shoreline West was LMB’s final bicycle tour of 2017. With 2018 already in the makings, LMB cannot wait to see you all out there next summer!
Categorised in: LMB Tours