NOTE: Each rider please register individually.
TOUR START: This tour starts and ends at in Hastings along the river at Levee Park (20 Ramsey Street, Hastings, MN 55033). Parking is available under the Hastings Bridge and on nearby streets.
THE TOUR
Welcome to Hastings! Just a short trip out of the metro area but totally a small town feel.
This Saturday ride is clearly marked and generally smooth and level. It is a relaxing ride with options for riders with varying interests and capabilities. We will return to Hastings and relax on the deck at the American Legion, if there is room! We can also loop to Prescott WI to eat along the river (see option #2 below).
Our ride has many options.
#1 First we will travel west along the Mississippi River Trail and through sections of the Spring Lake Park Reserve. Hopefully this year we will see the buffalo herd! Scenery through this area is spectacular and you will be happy you have an eBike to help with the hills! Distance from Hastings and back for this first section is 21 miles.
#2 Upon returning to Hastings, especially if the American Legion is full, there is an option to continue on the Great River Road, across the Hastings River and into Wisconsin. A short additional 14 mile ride will take us to the river's western shore across from Prescott and back. Prescott is also a favorite for those looking for lunch!!!
#3 For those who might want a bit of a challenge, the Pine Bend Trail is easily accessible if you wish to travel on to the north. This trail is a mixture of paved and hard packed gravel. While it has wonderful river and lake views to the east, it has heavy industrial areas to the west. BUT, after a few miles, you will find yourself at the Pine Bend Bluffs Scientific and Natural Area (SNA). The Mississippi River Regional Trail passes through this site which is in an Audubon Important Bird Area. And the Mississippi River Water Trail is adjacent to this site (walking trail only). Find stunning views from 200 foot bluffs overlooking the Mississippi at this SNA, one of the least disturbed sites along the river in the Twin Cities. And filled with solitude!
Checkout this link to learn more about Pine Bend Bluffs Natural Area.
For biking in this restricted area, check out the map here.
#4 There is another option/challenge. A few of us are considering traveling from St. Paul to Hastings, enjoying the Hastings group ride, and then returning to St Paul. This will add considerable distance and challenge. If you are interested, please let us know by emailing us at info@pedegotwincities.com; we will get back to you to discuss.
This part of the ride is no longer accessible.
Find the Ride with GPS route here.