Photo by Nathan Miller
Ride the Keweenaw registration opens, new events added
THE KEWEENAW, Michigan (March 29, 2023) — Registration for Ride the Keweenaw (RTK) is now open! This season-opening Midwest mountain biking event has something to offer experienced riders as well as novices and families. Mark your calendars for May 26-28 to ride some of the Keweenaw’s most rugged and unique mountain bike trails.
The weekend kicks off Friday, May 26th with a guided ride on the Southern Keweenaw Trails and through Adventure Mine in Greenland. Riding underground requires a headlamp or handlebar lights – and look out for bats!
On Saturday, May 27th there is a morning group ride at the Michigan Tech Trails. This trail system is good for all skill levels – so bring the whole family. New to RTK this year is a Family Enduro race. It will take place at the Michigan Tech Trails and be more approachable for new racers and kids. The atmosphere will be laid back, with longer times between racers, shorter stages and easier terrain.
“We’ve also kept prices low so the entire family can take part,” said Copper Harbor Trails Club Executive Director Nathan Miller. “Families and friends are encouraged to race together for camaraderie and support, something that isn’t typical in bigger enduro races.”
Later in the afternoon, RTK travels north with group rides at both Churning Rapids and the Swedetown Trails. Churning Rapids showcases trails built by the community just outside of Hancock, while Swedetown features a variety of family-friendly trails that twist and turn through the forest.
In between rides bikers are encouraged to ride down to the Houghton Pier on Saturday from 12-5 p.m. for the Houghton From the Ground Festival. There will be dozens of local vendors and food trucks, not to mention music from local artists!
Sunday is the apex of the weekend. RTK competitors visit Copper Harbor for the season's first daunting downhill rides and Enduro races. The races test the limits of riders, their bikes and how well they know the terrain.
Riders’ performance at the RTK Enduro can boost their scores in the LSGS.
“We’re always excited for Ride the Keweenaw and are looking to make this a great year,” said CHTC’s Miller. “Our partner organizations here in the Copper Country are brainstorming new ideas to make the event even more fun and we look forward to releasing more details on those as things come together.”
RIDE THE KEWEENAW SCHEDULE:
Friday, May 26:
6:30 p.m. – Guided Group Ride at Adventure Mine in Greenland
Bring your headlamp to ride through the mine! Meet at the Adventure Mine at 200 Adventure Ave, Greenland, MI 49929
Saturday, May 27:
9 a.m. – Guided Group Ride at Michigan Tech Trails in Houghton – Family-friendly!
Meet at the main trailhead at Mill Rd, Houghton, MI. Trail passes are required for adults.
10 a.m. – Family Enduro Race at the Michigan Tech Trails in Houghton
Check-in/Registration from 9-10 a.m. at the main trailhead
This race does not count for LSGS points
Family-friendly racecourse!
12-5 p.m. From the Ground Festival in Downtown Houghton
Local art, music, and food vendors, bike check-ups, and more!
Find From the Ground Festival on the new Houghton Pier
1:00 PM Guided Group Ride at Churning Rapids Trails in Hancock
Meet at the Christensen Road trailhead off M-203
5:00 PM Guided Group Ride at Swedetown Trails in Calumet – Family-friendly!
Meet at the main trailhead near the chalet.
Potluck & Grill-out afterward - bring something to share!
Sunday, May 28th
10 a.m. – LSGS Enduro Race at the Copper Harbor Trails
Check-In/Registration 8:00 AM - 9:30 AM at the Grant Township Community Hall
Enduro times are subject to change slightly as race day nears. Check back often.
This is the first Enduro race in the 2022 Lake Superior Gravity Series!
2:30 p.m. – Enduro Awards announced at the Grant Township Community Hall
3 p.m. – ArtBike at the Harbor opening at the Grant Township Community Hall
Check out the newest round of posters and get one before they sell out!
You can register for any of the rides or enduros or make a donation to the Copper Harbor Trails Club here. Prices for both enduro races go up on May 15. Register early for the best prices.
COST:
Group Rides: Free (May 26-27)
Michigan Tech Trails Family Enduro: $30 race fee for 18+, $15 for ages 13-17, and $10 for 12 and under (May 27 @ 10 a.m.)
Copper Harbor Enduro: $50 race fee (May 28 @ 10 a.m.)