08 Feb 2018 Michigander Tour to visit Cheboygan

The Michigander Bicycle Tour will be returning to Cheboygan in July 2018, bringing with it approximately 500 avid cyclists. “This is an excellent opportunity to showcase our town,” said Jim Conboy, Michigan Trails and Greenways Alliance and Top of Michigan Trails Council board member.

Cyclists will use the North Central State Trail and the North Eastern State Trail, both of which are located in Cheboygan. The trails intersect at the trailhead at the corner of Lincoln and Western Avenues. Riders will be on these trails almost exclusively throughout the ride.

The tour last visited Cheboygan in 2015 and riders universally enjoyed their stay. Just like their previous visit, many will be camping at the campus of Cheboygan Area High School, where they will also be able to shower and enjoy breakfast each morning. Riders also have the option of staying in area motels.

Participants will have several options for their ride: a two-day tour, six-day tour, or an eight-day tour that combines both. Cyclists will be in town from Friday, July 13 until Tues., July 17, with the six- and eight-day riders returning to a festive finish line on Sat., July 21.

The Michigander also will provide a significant boost to the local economy. “There should be a very positive economic benefit. Restaurants, shops, just about everyone should see a benefit from this event being based in Cheboygan,” Conboy noted.

Downtown Enhancement Administrator Kirsten Guenther is also looking forward to the arrival of the Michiganders. “We hope to see many of them downtown stopping in local stores and enjoying the nightlife. Merchants will ship their purchases, so there is no need for riders to worry about having to carry back what they buy,” she said. “We also have the bike station at Festival Square where riders can make minor adjustments to their bikes, and if they need something more significant, the bike shop is right across the street.”

While in Cheboygan riders will be enjoying local events scheduled during their stay, including the farmers market at Festival Square, the Cheboygan Area Arts Council Art Festival, and any scheduled events at the Opera House.

“Riders want to be downtown and will be looking for things to do,” said Conboy. “Cheboygan has become a real draw for cyclists, both those with tours and those riding individually,” Conboy observed. “The trails are bringing people in.”

Michigander Registration is open now through June 30 at www.michigander.bike. The Michigander Bicycle Tour is part of The Pure Michigan FITness Series. This series endorses local, regional and state events consistent with the Governor’s Council mission to promote healthy choices, while offering a physical activity event open to all participants, regardless of skill level or age.