Monday, July 12, 2010

Drummond Island Ride during InZane X

Thursday ALL-DAY Adventure to Drummond Island

Just for all your information, Thursday morning (July 15th) I’ll be leaving at 8:00 am sharp (or sharp as possible), from the curved drive at the front of the main lodge. I’m posting this in case anyone would have the inkling to join me. This is going to be an all day sight-seeing ride, and ESPECIALLY for any out-of-staters who would like to see some of the most gorgeous areas and landmarks we have around this part of the state. This is my ‘planned ride’, but if we come across something spectacular – I’m open to make changes.

First part will be mainly making time (about 45 miles worth) to Petoskey, this is a quaint little town (although a very busy little town) right on Traverse Bay.

We’ll travel along the waters edge to Harbor Springs, another beautiful town on the water. From here we will pick up Highway 119 (lovingly called the Tunnel of Trees). This is a 20 mile stretch of curvy, hilly roads, ‘almost’ totally covered with trees, with a view of Lake Michigan on your left just about the whole way – an absolutely gorgeous ride. This will take us into Cross Village, here we’ll have a 15 minute stop.

Leaving Cross Village, we’ll be on mostly country roads, but will catch I-75 freeway to the Mackinaw Bridge. For anyone who has not seen (maybe not heard of) this bridge, you are in for a treat. 5 ½ miles long (up to 300’ over the water), twin support shaft shooting hundreds of feet up toward the sun – you won’t forget this. Take Note, there is a fee of $3.50 EACH way on this bridge.

As we cross this bridge, we will take a little side trip, down thru St Ignace, another cool town – home of our infamous “St Iggy Week-end” rides – ask around, see who’s been to one – then listen, this is one of Michigan Chapter VRCC finest rides.

We will catch I-75 for a little bit, then veer off to our right on M-134. This is a very beautiful and scenic ride along the top of Lake Huron, which will take us to the very little town of De Tour Village (east end of the Upper Peninsular). Here we hope to catch the Drummond Island Ferry (runs every hour), to load up our bikes and take the 10 minute boat trip to Drummond Island. Take note, there is a fee of $6.00 EACH way on this ferry. I have not been on this island yet myself, but hear this is a very nice restaurant – which we will be stopping at for lunch. I plan to make a tourist stop or 2, but this will depend on how the timing is all going up to that point.

After this, we will be starting to make our way back to Shanty Creek. Would like to get back by 5pm, for the evening’s planned activities – mainly the line up at 5:45pm, for the Ride to Bonfire at Schuss Mountain.

So, if you’d like to tag along, you’re more than welcome to join me.

Gary House #2260 – just call me STITCH, or call me at 616 340-9497 if you have questions.

This is going to be a great day of riding, but all day 8am till 5pm. If you’re new to Michigan, you WILL be seeing some sights that you won’t want to miss.

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