Camping.

Single Speeding.

Beer.

I can't think of what would make a better weekend September 23-25.

.....oh yeah and the people.

Last year my friends from Chicago put on the first ever Gnome-Fest in Wausau, WI at 9-mile. Around 50 of the coolest people showed up from MN, WI, IA, IL, and MI. The event takes place at 9 Mile in Wausau, WI. If you haven't been to 9 mile before it is simply one of the best places to ride in that's about equidistant between Chicago and Minneapoilis. And yes there's plenty more than 9 miles of trails, plus all of them are bi-directional. Take a look here for a PDF trail map: http://www.co.marathon.wi.us/is/pks/...ketrailmap.pdf The trails have so much flow it just begs to be ridden with a single speed, but gears are cool too. It's set up where there are little to none man made obstacles but rather the land itself will keep you on your toes. One of the trails is like a rock grave yard. Really fun at night. Yes bring your lights too for night riding.

This has got to be one of the best weekends I had mountain biking last year. Although I now live more then 2000 miles away I just booked my flight so I can come and play again.

Edit:
Oh yeah.... www.gnome-fest.net or www.illinoismtb.com for more info.