View Full Version : Midwest's next ride
I'll be down in KS somewhere in the middle of October until before Thanksgiving, then back sometime in February until...I don't know. April?
I don't know the lay of the land down there, but maybe we can start getting an idea of who's there and where to go...
This looks like it has some good ideas, for starters: http://www.naturalkansas.org/tours.htm
I'd love to do this (http://www.naturalkansas.org/images/PDF/WWByway.pdf) as a 2-day mini-tour with a hotel overnight at some point near halfway.
Absolutely!!!! That looks so great! Here's a link with more info. http://www.ksbyways.org/Pages/Wetlands/wetlands1.html
You want to try and get it in this year or wait til spring?
East Hill (although, why would she read this thread?): it's a long ways from you, but read this from the description....
"The litany of a local naturalist sums it nicely, "There are 650 bird species in the United States, 417 in Kansas and 320 in Cheyenne Bottoms."
I'd be up for it in late October. 1st week of November I have plans (will have to check dates), and into late November it'll be getting pretty cold... Really, it would be good to find out when we're more likely to see wildlife - fall or spring? I'm sure a phone call to a park ranger would answer that question...
It would be cool to go when the birds are migrating.
tuckervill
09-02-07, 08:28 PM
I was just at the Tallgrass Prairie National Reserve near Cottonwood Falls, KS, two weeks ago. I didn't ride my bike, but if I ever get a chance to ride my bike through the preserve, I will!
Karen
Karen, where abouts are you???
Sandwarrior
09-02-07, 09:22 PM
That is a possibiltiy for us too, it would just have to fall on one of my 3 day weekends.
I do believe we have the beginnings of an excellent adventure.
Halthane
09-03-07, 06:33 AM
The weekend of Oct 20th is my only option in October (accursed K-state football) but November is pretty clear.
There is a fairly good sized charity ride for building a bike trail near me (manhattan) on the 6th if any were interested as well. See http://www.ecodevo.com/yellowbrickroadride/default.htm
Halthane
09-03-07, 06:34 AM
I was just at the Tallgrass Prairie National Reserve near Cottonwood Falls, KS, two weeks ago. I didn't ride my bike, but if I ever get a chance to ride my bike through the preserve, I will!
Karen
That's Pretty country. I'd be up for that as well.
I sent an email to the Convention & Visitors' Bureau asking about wildlife and weather in spring and fall, for the wetlands and wildlife route. The Tallgrass Prairie National PReserve would be fun too... I'm up for either.
Edit: or both ;)
JeeperTim
09-03-07, 09:01 AM
My October is pretty full, but I might be up for something last week of Oct or later. I'm in Iowa 1 week and Utah 2 weeks in Oct.
<<<<<< That thing,
is currently dissassembled in the shop getting prepped for Utah between rides.
Let's do some kind of get together somewhere late Oct- early Nov, but let's do the nature ride in the spring, on a 3-day weekend, as close to migration time as we can....
(Since I work from home, I'm no longer really aware of when 3 day weekends are! Could someone post the ones which happen in the spring? I know presidents day is in the middle of winter up in MN, but maybe not in the midwest? That's the only one I can think of.)
This fall's ride doesn't have to be in KS! If noone has any ideas, the Cottonwoods Falls one is an option. It looks like it's maybe 45 minutes NE of Wichita?
JeeperTim
09-03-07, 11:34 AM
The Flint Hills "trail" sounds interesting, and Council Grove is a nice little town with a couple of inexpensive motels for base camp. I just don't know what the trail surface is like. It's rails to trails so should be gentle grades.
Halthane
09-03-07, 07:28 PM
The Flint Hills "trail" sounds interesting, and Council Grove is a nice little town with a couple of inexpensive motels for base camp. I just don't know what the trail surface is like. It's rails to trails so should be gentle grades.
The Flinthills "Trail" isn't there yet, the ride I referred to is a fund raiser to help build the trail. And while the 13 mile ride is hilly, it is not disastrously so. The other two routes have some real hills on them though. I just road the long rout backwards, it was by no means flat. Beautiful road though.
Why don't we pick a weekend in Oct - Nov, then pick a route? I'm free except for Nov 14-19 (had the dates wrong before). Other possibilities, based on what others have said:
Oct 20-21 (since JeeperTim is busy the rest of Oct)
Nov 3-4
Nov 10-11
Here's the response I got from the Kansas Convention and Visitor's Bureau:
Hi -
I would suggest you vist next spring. Due to the amount of rain we received over the summer much of the wetlands (particularly Cheyenne Bottoms) is flooded. While this is fine for the birds it hinders visitors in traveling through the area. During the fall there is a significant waterfowl migration although the end of October might be a little early for the mass migration. Spring is definitely the time for shorebird migration. April would be the best month for this. Temperatures should be good for biking. Additionally there is a big interpretation project being developed for the byway. By spring we should have a few more things in place that would enhance your visit - like downloadable maps, interpretive cd for ipod use, and a new visitor center opened. Let me know if you need any additional information. Cris
Terrierman
09-04-07, 12:16 PM
Come on down (or up, depending) to the Springfield / Branson area in the spring, when the dogwood and redbuds are blooming, and the riding is easy....
Becky, could you write back and as when the best time in Spring is? I was in KS last spring, and it rained every day for about 2 months!
I'm pretty flexible about the fall. I just have to check with my dog friends down there when we choose a date, since there always seems to be something I just "have" to go to.... usually something I want to get out* of, like being in parades or "mat cleaning day", so I think any date will work out well.
Come on down (or up, depending) to the Springfield / Branson area in the spring, when the dogwood and redbuds are blooming, and the riding is easy....
Cool! I've been through there once, and I remember.... appalachian mountains?
Tom Stormcrowe
09-04-07, 01:03 PM
If you folk want to do a really nice ride, there's this: It is a 2 day ride in Southern Indiana. I'll be doing it for sure, as well as a couple other folk here on C/A.
Oct12-14th
http://www.hillyhundred.org/
LOL! I'll be working up* to that, Tom... Maybe next year!
How many here have done an organized ride? I never have, but will be doing my first in Sept with Becky, Caincando and Pupsocket. (Becky--they probably haven't been following the Mille Lacs threads).
Tom Stormcrowe
09-04-07, 01:26 PM
It's only a hundred miles over 2 days.......;) It's really not that bad :)LOL! I'll be working up* to that, Tom... Maybe next year!
How many here have done an organized ride? I never have, but will be doing my first in Sept with Becky, Caincando and Pupsocket. (Becky--they probably haven't been following the Mille Lacs threads).
Any time they put "death" or "hilly" in the title, I know I'm not quite there, yet!
Tom Stormcrowe
09-04-07, 01:36 PM
Any time they put "death" or "hilly" in the title, I know I'm not quite there, yet!
But there's only 16X10³ feet of climbing ;)
Terrierman
09-04-07, 02:11 PM
Cool! I've been through there once, and I remember.... appalachian mountains?
Ozarks. Mere hills, more like bumps really. Not mountains. Nice pretty riding territory. There was only a few of them complaining about the hills during the first annual Queen City Century earlier this summer, and I only heard one guy say he'd never used his lowest gear before....
Halthane
09-04-07, 02:14 PM
But there's only 16X10³ feet of climbing ;)
only? was there supposed to be a decimal point in there? 16,000 feet of climbing in 100 miles is a lot of climbing.
Tom Stormcrowe
09-04-07, 02:17 PM
only? was there supposed to be a decimal point in there? 16,000 feet of climbing in 100 miles is a lot of climbing.
I was joking ;) Creative exaggeration!
OK, let's talk about a fall ride from Oct15th to Nov 15th, and the spring ride! Let's hear some ideas. The fall ride will be kind of smallish, but the spring ride should be an event!
Tom Stormcrowe
09-18-07, 06:21 PM
OK, let's talk about a fall ride from Oct15th to Nov 15th, and the spring ride! Let's hear some ideas. The fall ride will be kind of smallish, but the spring ride should be an event!
How about the Hilly Hundred, here in Indiana? October and spread over 2 days.
http://www.hillyhundred.org/
Let me throw this in to wet your whistles. It is not Kansas and I know that is Solveg's destination, but I throw this out for future reference. This is a jewel of a trail. Take a look. If you all ever want to put together a group, i would be happy to help with the local logistics as I am only about 15 miles from this.
http://travel.nostalgiaville.com/Illinois/tunnelhilltrail/tunnel%20hill%20trail%20il.htm
http://illinois.sierraclub.org/shawnee/sites/s-tunnel_hill_bike_trail.htm
Food for thought.
Jay
How about the Hilly Hundred, here in Indiana? October and spread over 2 days.
http://www.hillyhundred.org/
I don't think I have the right bike or body for that ride yet. But, it sounds like a nice one.
http://travel.nostalgiaville.com/Illinois/tunnelhilltrail/tunnel%20hill%20trail%20il.htm
http://illinois.sierraclub.org/shawnee/sites/s-tunnel_hill_bike_trail.htm
Food for thought.
Jay
That is an awesome trail. I did New Burnside to Vienna run and it was the coolest trail I have been on.
Tom Stormcrowe
09-18-07, 06:54 PM
I don't think I have the right bike or body for that ride yet. But, it sounds like a nice one.
People ride it on Hybrids, Road Bikes and Mountain bikes. It's a really nice ride over 3 days, not a single day century. ;)
From their site:
The Central Indiana Bicycling Association, Inc. (CIBA) is proud to sponsor the 40th Annual Hilly Hundred Weekend, a classic bicycling event designed for the touring cyclists. If you like a bicycling challenge that includes entertainment and fellowship with more than 5,000 cyclists from over 40 states and several foreign countries, the Hilly is for you.
• This three day event is held in the scenic hills of southern Indiana.
• The challenging terrain is a wonderful mix of gently rolling country roads and breathtaking hills (literally).
• On Saturday riders will enjoy the brand new route we debuted in 2003. Riders will travel out of Ellettsville toward the great towns of Whitehall, Solsberry, Newark, New Hope and Pottersville. In addition, there are some hills and scenic vistas on this route that leave you breathless.
• On Sunday, riders will head out toward perennial favorite, Morgan-Monroe State Forest. Not to be overlooked is
everyone’s favorite bragging hill, Mt. Tabor. A short route will be available.
• There is free food and live(ly) entertainment at each of three rest stops on both Saturday and Sunday.
• Attendance is limited so get your entry in early.
• As always, the Hilly is not a race, so come for a challenging tour but leave the racing gear at home.
• You must wear a bicycle helmet to participate in the ride.
Ride Headquarters
Headquarters for the weekend is Edgewood High School, 601 S. Edgewood Drive, Ellettsville, Indiana. This is where the ride starts and finishes each day. A staggered start on both Saturday and Sunday morning is traditional.
Hilly Hundred Merchandise
• There’s something for everyone, but please pre-order because quantities for sale at the Hilly will be limited.
• Choose from t-shirts for adults or children, cycling jerseys in short-sleeve styles and sweatshirts.
• Great souvenirs ranging from the traditional patch and vest pin to attractive baseball and cycling caps.
• Notice: cycling caps will be available only as a pre-order item. If you want one, order it when you pre-register.
• As always, there will be a unique limited edition print created exclusively for the 2007 Hilly Hundred.
• Additional merchandise may be available. See the Merchandise page for photos of merchandise.
Great Food Available Saturday Morning, Saturday Afternoon and Sunday Morning
• These meals, prepared by the Edgewood High School Booster groups, are optional and require an extra charge.
• Early Saturday morning you will have the opportunity to fuel up at the school before tackling the day’s ride.
• Late Saturday afternoon there will be a mouth-watering dinner to help you recharge.
• Early Sunday morning you can begin the day with a hearty breakfast to energize you for the day’s challenges.
Camping Just Got Better! - Now Available Onsite and at a Nominal Charge
• Room is available for tent campers and RVs, although no hookups or conveniences will be provided for the RV campers.
• Camp fires and alcohol are not permitted on school grounds.
• Sleeping bag space is inside the school. Come and stay overnight with us inexpensively.
• Weekend-long shower privileges at the school will still be available to all participants at no additional charge.
• Bring your own towel.
Riders Under 18 Years of Age
Riders under the age of 18 need the approval of a parent or legal guardian as provided on the application. Riders under the age of 16 may participate in the Hilly only if accompanied by a bicycling parent or other responsible adult. Groups of underage riders must have additional adult supervision bicycling with them. Underage riders must be capable of finishing the route before 4:00 P.M.
Hotel Information
Contact the Monroe County Convention and Visitor’s Bureau at 1-800-800-0037 or www.visitbloomington.com.
Volunteer Information
• If you are willing to work at least six hours, your registration fee, camping or sleeping space, meals and a Hilly Helper T-shirt are free upon request. Each volunteer must fill out the volunteer registration form. For additional information see the volunteer page.
• The volunteer application is not available online.
• If you plan to volunteer, please volunteer early so we can plan more effectively for the Hilly.
Central Indiana Bicycling Association (CIBA)
The 40th Hilly Hundred Weekend is sponsored by the Central Indiana Bicycling Association, Inc. (CIBA) of Indianapolis, Indiana. CIBA is one of the largest and most active bicycle clubs in the United States. Additional information about CIBA may be obtained by visiting CIBA’s website at www.cibaride.org or by calling (317) 767-7765. Proceeds from the Hilly Hundred Weekend support CIBA activities, the CIBA Foundation, Inc. and the Indiana Bicycle Coalition, Inc. Hilly Hundred Weekend proceeds are also used to support the communities. All unused food is donated to a local food bank.
What Others Have Said About The Hilly Hundred Weekend
• “Best Overall Ride”, “Best Map”, and “Longest Running Annual Ride”- Bicycling Magazine and the League of American Bicyclists selected the Hilly Hundred Weekend as the recipient of these honors.
It's over 3 days? That's not bad. I thought it was 2. I am not up to 50 yet but 30 or so each day might be doable.
Tom Stormcrowe
09-18-07, 07:08 PM
I had initially thought 2, but the site has it over 3 days. 2 for riding and one for the pre-event stuff.
Its done 50 and 48 or 50 and 4550 though in the hills. I'm definitely doing at least one day of it and want to do both.
Let me throw this in to wet your whistles. It is not Kansas and I know that is Solveg's destination, but I throw this out for future reference. This is a jewel of a trail. Take a look. If you all ever want to put together a group, i would be happy to help with the local logistics as I am only about 15 miles from this.
http://travel.nostalgiaville.com/Illinois/tunnelhilltrail/tunnel%20hill%20trail%20il.htm
http://illinois.sierraclub.org/shawnee/sites/s-tunnel_hill_bike_trail.htm
Food for thought.
Jay
OK, that looks like a fantastic* ride. It looks like something you could read about before and it would add a lot to the ride. I've been doing a lot of riding on these rail trails, and I don't really know much about the railroad era. This ride looks absolutely beautiful.
There are a lot of people in Illinois, too. I would travel to do that ride and meet everyone in that area. Maybe we need another planning section for WI, IL, IN, MI, and MI? I would have to travel there from KS or MN as a specific trip because I couldn't do it with the dogs on my way enroute.
And as far as the hilly hundred goes (or any of these rides), you hill lovers should go for it!!!!!!
Mariner Fan
09-18-07, 08:13 PM
I had initially thought 2, but the site has it over 3 days. 2 for riding and one for the pre-event stuff.
Its done 50 and 48 or 50 and 4550 though in the hills. I'm definitely doing at least one day of it and want to do both.
Tom, have you ever done this ride? It's tough as hell for a Clyde. I know because I've had to walk up a few of those hills.
LOL! Yeah, I pretty much assume that anything Tom suggests is going to have the word "Challenge" in it. I was thinking of trying RAGBRAI next year until I remembered it was Tom's idea....
Tom Stormcrowe
09-18-07, 08:18 PM
Tom, have you ever done this ride? It's tough as hell for a Clyde. I know because I've had to walk up a few of those hills.
Nope, not yet, but how much worse can it be than hauling a 65 pound trailer across the UP on sandy dirt roads with a road bike?:p
OK, to sum up, I (KS) will be down for 1 month, Oct 15-Nov 15 (roughly).
Sandwarrior (CO): are there any 3 day weekends in this time period?
Halthane (KS) is good for Oct 20th and Nov, and is open for Cottonwood Falls.
JeeperTim (KC-MO) is possibly good for maybe the last week of Oct and Nov.
Becky(NW ARK) is OK for everything except the Nov 14-19.
So we are looking at the following dates: October 20th, Nov 3rd, 4th, 10th, or 11th. I'm assuming we want to do this on a weekend, but maybe I'm making a bad assumption?
We are looking for something kind of central to us. Let's limit it to these parameters, and look around our backyards to see where we want to go!
Hmmmm. Lack of a response doesn't bode well. Everyone pack it up for the season?
I'm down in KS now, in what I affectionately call my "country crack house" (it was cheap, and there was a reason...)
Skunk on my porch, mice ate my wiring, I've been working freelance since the day I got down here. Now, looks like my time may open up! I could, of course, just paint and repair things and take the occasional solo ride when there's no rain and tornados (like there has been since I got here), but I'm still open to hooking up. Unfortunately, I've gotten in only about 40 miles a week for the past month because of work. So I'll probably drop dead if I go over 20 miles. Of course, there's no hills here. But the wind has reached 70 miles per hour in the past few days, so, well....
So, anyone interested, talk to me!
vBulletin® v3.7.3, Copyright ©2000-2008, Jelsoft Enterprises Ltd.