by Natalie Gille, Greater Minnesota BikeMN program Manager – photo Pedal Fergus Falls

With bike touring season is in full swing here in Minnesota the local bike advocates in Fergus Falls are always ready! Located on the Adventure Cycling Association Northern Tier route, an overnight stop here should not to be missed on your travels through our bicycle-friendly state.

When I reached out to the Pedal Fergus Falls crew on short notice it was the beginning of the 4th of July holiday weekend. Right away they responded and were busy welcoming a family of four (including two kids ages 10 and 12) who just arrived on their bikes. The Ziemer family was touring across the country from coast to coast by bike. On their arrival, Pedal Fergus Falls response was lightening fast. Within a few short hours the crew had lined up dinner, overnight accommodations and a warm welcome for their first night in Minnesota.

What’s really cool to hear is that two other touring cyclists groups where overnight guests in Fergus Falls as well. They pedaled in just before the Ziemer’s arrived. So a third host site was needed to accommodate them, which was promptly arranged by the local Fergus Falls crew.

Special thanks to Wayne Hurley and his family for providing dinner for the Ziemer’s. The Thorson Family for hosting them overnight. David Jensen and Paul Shol for hosting the other touring cyclists in town at the same time period. Also a  wonderful warm thanks by the local bike advocate group in Fergus Falls.

I received the following message of gratitude from Jessica Ziemer as they continued biking across the rest of Minnesota. “What an amazing bike community Fergus Falls has here!” She said. “We were treated so wonderfully by the Fergus Falls community!”

Thank you for biking through Minnesota Ziemer Family. BikeMN wishes you safe travels on the rest of your journey to the east coast. You can learn more about the Ziemer bike tour in the Glendive Ranger Review and follow their story at www.journeybig.com.

To learn more about local bike advocates in Fergus Falls. A group who has sought out and received national recognition as a bronze level Bicycle Friendly Community, check out Pedal Fergus Falls on their Facebook page.

Also, keep your eyes peeled the Green Riders pedaling through Minnesota! They’ll be rolling in from the east and heading west from Minneapolis. Anyone who wants to stretch their legs is invited to ride with them on their way through the state, or even just through their town! Check out their website here to connect.

Lots of people are bicycling through and around Minnesota. Keep a lookout in the city and on country roads for bicyclists. Please stay focused on the road at all times and give all riders lots of room (and a wave hello)!

About BikeMN

The Bicycle Alliance of Minnesota is working to make Minnesota a place where bicycling is an easy, safe, and fun for everyone. The mission of BikeMN is to unite and strengthen bicycle advocacy, provide education, and work for a more bicycle friendly Minnesota. Visit www.bikemn.org to learn more about local advocacy around Minnesota.