Imagine, you and your bike traveling 80 mile per hour on Metro Transit’s Northstar Train before reaching Big Lake, Minn. for a scenic bike ride back to Minneapolis on the Mississippi River Trail. On this ride enjoy old and new friends as you ride the Train ‘n Trail Tour on Saturday, June 21st. If you have the stamina for a scenic 45 miles scenic bike ride back to the Twin Cities, find out more below and sign up today.
Visualize yourself as one of the enthusiastic bikers on this rail/bike adventure while awaiting the 11:30 a.m. departure of Metro Transit’s Northstar Train for a 41 miles ride to Big Lake. Think about the commanding views from the double-decked, five-car train that comfortably whisks along at speeds up to 80 mph. After arriving at Big Lake you and the other participants on the ride will pedal back over the lightly-traveled roads and trails along the Mississippi River.
Arriving in the city of Elk River you will enjoy a catered lunch, before continuing along the river to the rides start in downtown Minneapolis. While travelling along the Mississippi River at the pace and intimacy of a bicycle, you’ll see what many tourists never will. You will be immersed in the river’s way of life and experience a route filled with history, enchantment, and remarkable adventure!
Pre-registered participants will meet at the Minneapolis Parks & Recreation Headquarters parking lot at 10:30 a.m. Cars may be left there for the entire day. Riders will begin the adventure riding a short distance on their bikes to the Target Field Station. Then hoping on the Northstar Commuter Rail Line, with bikes, for an 11:30 departure, arriving in Big Lake at 12:19 p.m.
On the return trip, participants will pedal approximately 45 miles over lightly traveled and slightly hilly roads. This is a go-at-your-own-pace ride, not a race.
Don’t miss the train! Pre-registration is required and space is limited to 150 riders. The cost is $30 per person or $25 for members of the Bicycle Alliance of Minnesota. The registration fee includes your train ticket, a catered picnic lunch in Elk River, maps and route assistance. This event will take place rain or shine. Refunds will not be available.
Register online here. If you prefer to register by mail, download and print this form and mail it to the address shown with your check.
Not a BikeMN member? Join or renew your membership today and receive a $5 discount on this event. Questions? Call 612-730-3730 or email [email protected] .
