Explore the scenic Minnesota River Valley with Judge David Minge on his second bike Expedition Sept. 1 - 4
(July 31, 2006) - Join former Congressman and current Minnesota Court of Appeals Judge David Minge as he leads his second Bike Minnesota with Parks & Trails Labor Day weekend expedition, Sept. 1 to 4. Immerse yourself in picturesque landscapes while exploring significant natural, historic and cultural sites in the Minnesota River Valley. Local experts will narrate your journey with real-life stories as you tour the communities and landmarks along the way. With stops that include Minnemishinona Falls, the Sakatah Singing Hills State Trail, Morgan Creek Vineyards, the Traverse des Sioux Historic Site and Rapidan Regional Park, you will be sure to leave this fun and informative weekend adventure with many fond memories and new friends. Register today!
The 140-mile, three-day ride begins and ends each day in Minneopa State Park where riders can camp and enjoy evening campfire stories and entertainment. This is definitely not your typical bike ride. For more information, including how to register or obtain an itinerary of event stops and activities, please call Brett at 651-726-2457.
Event Overview
Friday, Sept. 1
8 p.m.- Welcome and presentation at Minneopa State Park. Camp overnight in the park.
Saturday, Sept. 2 - Round trip ride of about 50 miles
We begin our adventure with a day's jaunt to New Ulm and back. Highlights include stops at the Morgan Creek Vineyards and Schell's Brewery. This is a day to soak in New Ulm old and new, from its renowned German heritage to its current Riverblast festival celebrating the town's cultural traditions.
Sunday, Sept. 3 - Round trip ride of about 50 miles
Explore the region's natural landscape on this route that includes the Kasota prairie, historic St. Peter and the Sakatah Singing Hills State Trail. In addition, learn more about the region's history at the Traverse des Sioux Historic Site.
Monday, Sept. 4 - Round trip ride of about 40 miles
Ride the Red Jacket Trail to Rapidan Regional Park, where a Parks & Trails' land acquisition project helped protect valuable river frontage. The ride will follow back roads to Lake Crystal and Judson, and along the river back to Mankato. This route includes a stop at the spectacular Minnemishinona Falls waterfall!
LOGISTICS
Meals and Camping
• The Bike Minnesota event will return each evening to Minneopa State Park. Tent camp spaces (using your own tent and sleeping gear) at Minneopa's group camp are included in the registration fee. Showers are available. To arrange your own RV site, contact the state park reservation system at www.stayatmnparks.com or call 1-866-857-2757. If you prefer not to camp, you are welcome to make your own arrangements at any of the excellent accommodations in the Mankato area. Visit www.mankato.com for details.
• Most meals are provided. Details will be provided in your registration packet. Parks & Trails will provide all utensils, plates, etc. Let us know if you have special food needs.
Support
• Route maps will be provided. A support van will travel with the group, stopping at 4 to 5 mile intervals so you can fuel up on snacks and drinks.
• Parks & Trails staff will provide basic bicycle maintenance. Limited parts will be available for purchase (ie: tubes, tires, cables, chain lube).
Program
• Speakers will be available at key stops throughout the event to share highlights about the region. Still in the planning stages are special musical guests, naturalist programs and more.
Other
• Registration fee includes a free one-year membership in the Parks & Trails Council of Minnesota. All participants and support drivers will be required to sign a waiver. This will be included in your rider packet.
• Bikers will be required to wear a helmet, follow the rules of the road, and behave courteously, responsibly and safely. Parks & Trails reserves the right to remove anyone at any time for irresponsible behavior.
• Rider information packets with route details will be sent to all participants prior to the ride.
• Registration does not include a Minnesota State Park annual sticker or day pass for cars. Annual stickers are $25, day passes are $7, and can be purchased at the Minneopa State Park office, or by visiting www.dnr.state.mn.us.
• Children under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.
Registrations are due by Friday, August 18, 2006.