• Michigan Trails & Greenways Alliance

  • MTGA is a non-profit organization that shall foster and facilitate the creation of an interconnected statewide system of trails and greenways for recreation, health, transportation, economic development and environmental/cultural preservation purposes.

Michigander Bike Tour

Save-date-for-web-3

Dates Set for 2010 Ride

It’s a Ride for Everybody with three tour options

2-Day Weekend Tour: July 17 & 18

6-Day Tour: July 18-23

7-Day Tour: July 17- 23

The mileage each day is 35-55 miles per day.  It is a family friendly ride on traffic – free trails that includes camping each night, two meals provided every day, shuttle service for your luggage, and water stops. Baggage transport and campsites are included. Both experienced and beginner cyclists will enjoy the adventure of a circle tour. Michigander riders have included kids from 8 to 86 years old. All you need to do is ride and enjoy the beautiful scenery of Michigan’s trails and back roads.

It’s a tour ideal for hybrid, mountain bikes, we’ve included a route for road bikes.  Application.

Circle route for 2010

Starting in northern lower Michigan, the tour will circle around northern lower Michigan along miles of trails including the North Central State Trail, Little Traverse Wheelway, and Petoskey to Mackinaw Trail. Surfaces range from paved, crushed  stone and gravel. Sometimes we’ll venture out on low-traffic back roads to get from trail to trail. The days allow for plenty of time to stop, take in the sights, and enjoy the countryside.

The two-day tour option is a great choice for families and first-time riders who want to see what bicycle touring is all about.  The two-day ride will go “out and back” from Indian River to Cheboygan on the first day and Indian River to Vanderbilt on the second day.

At Indian River, riders will be able to swim at Burt Lake State Park or go canoeing on the Sturgeon River and see the worlds largest crucifix.

The seven-day tour option begins with the two-day riders on their trip from Indian River to Cheboygan and back.
On day two, the six-day and seven-day tour participants will join and head to Gaylord where we will stay at the Otsego County Fairgrounds, where they can take a they will be able to take a side trip to Elk Park to view the elk and deer.

Day three takes cyclists to Bellaire, and day four they ride to Harbor Springs where the trail travels near Lake Michigan the beautiful homes in Harbor Springs.

Next is two nights in Mackinaw City, which will allow Michigander riders the opportunity to travel to Mackinac Island or do a short out and back ride near the village and enjoy all the area has to offer.

The final day takes riders back to Indian River, where they are cheered on at the finish line and join old and new Michigander friends for cake and refreshments, as well as photos to commemorate the adventure.

Riders will enjoy the beauty of northern Michigan outdoors along miles of trails including the North Central State Trail, Little Traverse Wheelway, and Petoskey to Mackinaw Trail. Surfaces range from paved, crushed stone and gravel.  At times riders will venture out on low-traffic back roads to get from trail to trail. Application, Details, Map and more.

Riders and Volunteers Make 2009 Michigander Bicycle Tour a Success

The 18th annual Michigander Bicycle Tour was a great success, thanks to riders and volunteers who create the fun, friendly atmosphere for which the event is known.  The circle tour concept won raves as riders toured the scenic trails and back roads of Michigan from Edmore to St. Charles to Bay City to Clare to Reed City to Rockford and back to Edmore. “I loved the circle tour,” said one rider. “This was the feature that convinced me to come!” said another rider. Except for a few sprinkles the final day, riders enjoyed the beautiful sunny weather of summer in Michigan. “I like the opportunity to see parts of Michigan that you don’t normally see. Also, being outside for a week is great,” said one rider. Plans are already in the works for next year’s Michigander, July 17-23, 2010. The ride will be a circle tour in the northern lower peninsula of Michigan – visit this Web site for more details this fall.

Meijer LogoThe Michigan Trails and Greenways Alliance (MTGA) is thankful for the support of Meijer, platinum sponsor of the 2009 event.  Their support assists MTGA in hosting the Michigander and helps in efforts to connect Michigan through a statewide system of trails.

The Michigander Bicycle Tour would not be a success without the many dedicated volunteers who commit so much of their time to the event.  Many riders have commented that the friendly, helpful volunteers are a key reason they choose to come back year after year. One rider exclaimed, “The use of the trails, the staff and volunteers and meeting up with friends each year, I love the Michigander!”

Tales from the Trails – Featuring the Great People

From Michigander 2009

The Face of the Finish Line

By Sarah Siewert

Samuel Kennedy came to his first Michigander Tour by himself 17 years ago with a Huffy bike and a borrowed tent. He hardly knew how to shift, and did not know anyone. While reflecting on his first tour Kennedy said, “Everyone was smiling, willing to help and it felt like a community. They were young, old, black, white and it didn’t matter – everyone was getting along and having a great time.” After riding his bike for seven days and more than 300 miles, he was looking forward to reaching the finish line. But when he arrived at the finish he recalls it felt empty, and was missing a sense of excitement. Once he crossed the finish line he took off his shirt and started waving it in the air, encouraging the rest of the riders. Thus began the Michigander tradition of Kennedy, now known to fellow-riders as “Pitbull”, to be the official welcome committee for when riders “come home. Over the years he has developed a strong connection to the tour, even choosing it as his honeymoon destination, and has become a staple of the ride. Every July he gets an early start on the last day to set-up the finish line. With the help of volunteers, he now has hand-made checkered flags, bubbles, music and a distinct outfit to greet riders. Today, Kennedy is at the finish blowing his whistle and shouting “300 miles, lookin’ good, let’s go!” He is sure to make people aware that there are riders coming in and they should be recognized and appreciated for their accomplishment. Kennedy stays at the finish line cheering for hours because as he said, “I do not leave until every warrior comes home.”

Tales from the Trail – Featuring the Great People from Michigander 2009

The Face of the Finish Line

By Sarah Siewert

Tim Payne marks 2009 as his 16th Michigander Tour, but is celebrating a new tradition of enjoying the trails with his daughter Sarah. Starting at the age of eleven, the now fifteen-year-old Sarah Payne is participating in her fourth 7-day ride. She enjoys spending time with her dad and the feeling of accomplishment she has when crossing the finish line. Sarah keeps her friends posted on her progress by updating her facebook page. Yesterday she wrote “55 miles down!” Of her friends’ reaction to her updates she said, “They think it’s cool.” Both Tim and Sarah agree that the people they meet, and reunite with keep them coming back. “The fellowship of the ride is the best part,” Tim said. He is a part of the group known as the “biker babes and dudes.” He goes on to say, “I have never met a rude or grumpy Michigander.” When asked if she wanted her younger brother to come along next time Sarah said, “No, never!” She thinks the ride is reserved for father-daughter bonding time only.

Rider Inspired by Michigander Now Shares Experience with Others

By Sarah Siewert

Bill Williams of Troy, Michigan used the Michigander as motivation to lose a total of 90 pounds so he could participate in his first tour in 2006. During that first tour, he said he and some fellow riders were faced with a challenging trail, but in true Michigander-fashion they encouraged each other and made it through. The tough trail led to a fast camaraderie between the riders who now reunite every July. This year, Williams star width=ted the Michigander on the 2-day ride with his wife Sarah, and pulling their 19-month-old son Brayden. Williams will continue on to complete the full ride with friends. Along the route you can find him posting his Michigander experiences to twitter. Earlier this week on twitter he said, “Tues AM in Bay City, cool but not cold, beautiful sunrise over Saginaw Bay, and dry tents. Life gets no better.” (Click here for his photo of the view.) He also has a camera mounted on his handlebars, and will stream the photos together to make videos like this one from the 2008 ride. Williams promotes the Michigander online to encourage more riders to join and, perhaps more importantly, promotes bicycling as a part of a daily routine, as he rides his bike to work nearly every day. “My family is down to one car now,” Williams said, “I bike to work 90 percent of the time.” It was another beautiful day today as the 2-day riders biked from Edmore to Alma and back, and the 6- and 7-day riders traveled to St. Charles.

There are currently 21 responses to “Michigander Bike Tour”

Why not let us know what you think by adding your own comment! Your opinion is as valid as anyone elses, so come on... let us know what you think.

  1. 1 On April 17th, 2009, Laura said:

    This will be my 2nd Michigander. I am looking forward to this awesome summer adventure. Hats off to the amazing group who put this whole experience together. I haven’t plans to ever miss a summer!!! See ya all on the trail. —-Laura

  2. 2 On April 19th, 2009, Roger Zapinski said:

    I would’nt miss it for anything….If you don’t see me at the Michigander…I have passed on..

  3. 3 On June 7th, 2009, Jeanne said:

    I missed last year because I was deployed to somewhere hot, dry and nearly bikeless. I cannot WAIT to see you all again and ride, ride, ride!

  4. 4 On July 7th, 2009, Michelle Ellis said:

    My daughter and I have completed the 2-day tour for the past 2 years. She is only 9 and this year will be her third year riding on her own! We are so excited to be having this adventure together!!

  5. 5 On July 18th, 2009, John Feeney said:

    I just returned from the 2009 Michigander and it was great! My thanks to Carol and all the volunteers that helped make the tour possible. All the trails were good, but I’m glad they didn’t have us ride the Behling(sp)trail on the last day. That would have been a killer (just removed the railroad ties!). Thanks again and I look forward to next year.

  6. 6 On December 12th, 2009, Jody James said:

    You can’t find a more fun, life enriching experience than the Michigander.
    Hat’s off to the volunteers and the staff for all they do. this will be my ninth if my schedule allows. Family has been riding this tour since 1999, GO GEARHEADS

  7. 7 On December 19th, 2009, Tim Payne said:

    This will be my 17th Michigander come July 2010. If my daughter raises enough money (as Dad is financing school trip to Ireland and Scotland this summer) this could be her 5th Michigander.

    To anyone reading these posts, the Michigander is a great experience. It is really easy to make new friends on this tour. The organizers and volunteers do a fantastic job, and we travel through some great Michigan scenery.

    I cannot wait to see the completed route for 2010. Anywhere near Mackinaw or Indian River always makes for a great time!

    Biker Babes (You know who you are), see you on the trail…

  8. 8 On December 28th, 2009, Marcia said:

    I am new to bicycling and am considering 2010 as my first Michigander. I have a couple questions:
    1. Is the biker responsible for setting up and breaking down the tent each day? What type of shower/bathroom facilities are available?
    2. Is it possible, or feasible, to stay in a hotel near the trail each night, rather than camp?

    Thanks for your help.

  9. 9 On January 11th, 2010, Larry said:

    I missed last years ride because my riding partner had his knee replaced. Went to Vegas instead, I prefer the Michigander. I invited numerous friends to join us, hopefully they will. This will be my 4th year of riding, second weeklong.

  10. 10 On January 11th, 2010, Ann, Kathy, Chris, Janise and Jill said:

    The Beanie Babies are soooo excited about the 2010 circle tour in Northern Lower Michigan! These are some of the best trails and towns that we have ever done!! Can’t wait to see all of our Michigander friends again this year!

  11. 11 On January 11th, 2010, barry said:

    The route has just been secured and I will have more details to post shortly.

  12. 12 On January 14th, 2010, Rich said:

    To those not certain about participating in the 2010 Michigander. Do-o-o It! The trails in that area are great and the towns are friendly. The people who ride the Gander are friendly and outgoing. I keep coming back (this will be my 9th Gander) because of the people, the volunteers, the leadership, and the routes. Keep up the good work Nancy, Barry, and everyone at MTGA. Oh yes! Hey Biker Babes, I’ll see you there. We have some dancing to do-maybe even karaoke if a Keyhole is a stop on the way. Who knows? Until then…bye.

  13. 13 On January 15th, 2010, Ken Peterson said:

    I’ve only done road bike tours and am interested in doing the road option next summer. Are there many riders who opt to do the road option?

  14. 14 On January 15th, 2010, Valerie said:

    Good information, thanks for the post!

  15. 15 On January 20th, 2010, Jeannine Havens said:

    I did my first 6-day Michigander in 2009. What an awesome experience. The week flew by and before I knew it I was crossing the finish line with my new friends. I plan to ride in 2010 and I encourage anyone who loves to ride to join us.

  16. 16 On January 25th, 2010, Mel said:

    The circle route for 2010 is great. Plan to be there. It will be my 19th. Great ride, super volunteers and thanks to Barry for all the planning.

  17. 17 On January 28th, 2010, Bruce said:

    The route looks like a lot of fun. If I don’t have a new job I’ll join everyone in Gaylord after I finish my weekend MS ride.

  18. 18 On January 29th, 2010, Boyd said:

    This message is for Marcia (msg 8). Our destination each night is almost always a high school. We use the bathrooms and showers (and cafeteria) at the school. (Sometimes the custodian remembers to fire up the boiler the day BEFORE we get there and there is hot shower water.) Regarding the tent hassle and bailing out to a hotel, there is an in-between option that is not mentioned in the official brochure. Check out Bubba’s Pampered Pedalers at to add some luxury to your ride. If you stay at a hotel you’ll miss half the fun.

    Also, remember my buddy Jack’s comment, “The secret to the Michigander is earplugs.” He’s right. Bring some.

  19. 19 On February 1st, 2010, kim kimball said:

    this is #19 ride for me.–would not miss it for anything..( I MEAN ANYTHING) the ride keeps getting better every year. this is like a gathering of my 2 family.. been there done that gone thru hell and back..hope to see the smiling faces and the sea of tents,, and always a hug by Carol makes the day GREAT thanks again for wonderful experince to ride the trails..get off the pavement and get some dirt, dust, grit, sweat,, of the single track riding that where its the best…….. peace

  20. 20 On February 1st, 2010, Dan Katona said:

    My wife Monica and I rode in 5 or 6 of the earliest 6-day Michiganders and we still talk about the experiences. We’ve moved all over the country since the last one, and are currently living (and riding in) in California or we’d still be riding with all the great folks we met in past Michiganders. Sam Kennedy and I (aka-Goose) spent many a mile “hammering” the trail, with each of us “encouraging” the other, while Rita and Monica kept their own pace and arrived on their own schedule. I truly miss it (and the people)-but you don’t need to. This is a wonderful event. The 2010 route is awesome. Trust me-just do it.

  21. 21 On February 2nd, 2010, Corrie Chafin said:

    I would love to do the 2-day, this will be my first time; please send any helpful advise – i’m putting in for vacation today. Do many people go alone?

Leave a Comment