Michigan Trails & Greenways Alliance

Rider Wants All Michiganders to Ride the Michigander
By Gretchen Mensing

Bethlynn Sanders relaxing after a day of riding the Michigander

I sat down with Bethlynn Sanders of Kalamazoo after dinner at the Bay City Recreation Area on Monday night.  She is famous on the ride for her outgoing, friendly personality.  She told me she thinks every Michigan citizen should try riding the Michigander at least once.
“People who say they could never do it should try the 2-day ride. They will wake up the second day ready to train for next year,” she says.
Sanders has been riding the Michigander for almost 10 years.  Her friend got her started on it, and they have made time for the 7-day ride every summer.
“I wouldn’t do anything else in July,” she says.
When I asked her what makes the ride so special to her, Sanders talked about the ride organizers and volunteers who dedicate their time to putting together the event. She also sited the friendships she has built over the years.
“It is wonderful to see these people every year, and see the kids grow up year after year,” Sanders says.
She also says the ride is a unique way to experience all that Michigan has to offer.  It provides a chance to respect nature and enjoy the outdoors, while visiting many small towns along the way.
“We stop at little towns that you wouldn’t see riding down the interstate in a car. We stop in to restaurants and shops and talk with the locals.  We ride through woods, farmland and small communities. From the seat of your bike it is a whole different view.”
Bethlynn Sanders has one more thing to say to readers of this story who have not participated in the Michigander yet: “See you on the trails next year!”

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