With summer fast approaching in the Upper Midwest, if you plan on being in the Minneapolis/St Paul area over the 4^th of July here are two popular rides to check out. In the Western side of the Twin Cities, in Golden Valley, the Hiawatha Bicycling Club (HBC) will host the 16^th Annual Tour D’ Amico with a 29, 45 and 65 mile route. On the Northeast side of the Metro Area, up in the North Oaks/Shorewood area, the Twin Cities Bicycling Club (TCBC) will host the 34^th Annual Watermelon Ride, with a 15, 25 or 52 mile route option.

Logo of the Tour D’ Amico Bike Ride

As always, the Tour D’ Amico sponsored by D’ Amico & Sons Restaurants, of Minneapolis enjoys many delicious food sampling’s and a D’ Amico’s picnic lunch upon the riders return. On this ride enjoy the scenic lakeside routes that many of HBC’s members socially ride throughout the year by selecting the 29, 45 or 62 mile loop.  And as always SAG support is available along each marked and signed routes, plus you will find hydration and full rest stops opportunities along the way. Ride with old and new friends by registering today, Online or fill out the Registration form and pop-it in the mail.

Logo of the TCBC Watermelon Ride

Back in the northern suburbs, the TCBC Watermelon Experience will start in Shoreview and we will revisit some of this Club’s favorite routes. Participants can select the Family Friendly Loop, at around 15 miles with plenty of trails and road shoulders or the two longer loops around 25 and 52 miles on this well-marked, fully supported ride. Then on the return, two miles from the end of the ride enjoy a holiday picnic lunch at Snail Lake Pavilion, with the traditional Fourth picnic fare. Of course, there will be watermelon and the usual desserts too. Signing up for this ride; just go to their website: www.biketcbc.org/watermelon for both pre-registration or day-of information.

Have fun on this upcoming Holiday and plan to share your ride experiences and Tweets no matter where you are riding.

Most pets enjoy these holiday bike rides too.