1 cycling event in Elk Rapids, Michigan

IMPORTANT UPDATE (July 3rd)

Due to the recent excessive rains experienced in northern Michigan last week critical segments of M-88 affecting both the 63 and 104 mile routes have been closed indefinitely by MDOT. Both routes have been redesigned to retain the same “around Torch Lake” ride experience, but involve changes that RAT registrants need to be aware of.

The adjustments made to the longer Century route are fairly minor and haven't affected the overall length materially: what was 104 is now roughly 105 miles long while attempting to minimize travel on the major detour roadways.

Changes to the 63 mile route are much more significant and should be assessed by participants before opting for that course. Previously, the primary route was 63 miles long and offered a “50 mile shortcut” bypass that allowed folks mid-ride to trim a bit of length if they found themselves getting a bit more tired than they anticipated. The new route is now 68 miles long but DOES NOT offer a bypass option. Unfortunately, there was simply no other way to SAFELY circumnavigate Torch Lake. As our most popular route choice, folks will want to consider these changes carefully.

Tour Overview

The 2026 Ride Around Torch is an annual one-day recreational bicycle tour primarily along the scenic shores of Torch Lake, Michigan's longest and one of its most beautiful inland lakes with unusually clear, bright turquoise hued waters. This year marks our 40^th anniversary! In addition to the 26, 40, and signature 63-mile routes we have introduced a newly designed Chain-O-Lakes Century option for 2026! Whatever distance you decide, you’ll enjoy well-marked routes, fully stocked food stops staffed by friendly volunteers, and helpful SAG teams ready to assist with any mid-ride problem. When you have finished, relax with live music in the park, a delicious buffet lunch which includes ice cream, or take a refreshing dip in the cool waters of Grand Traverse Bay!

Routes

The 26 mile ride is an out and back around the north end of Elk Lake through Torch River to the food stop at Crystal Beach Park. It features the same hills and flats of the other routes only less.

The 40 mile ride extends the 26 mile ride from the Crystal Beach Park food stop, by going east, then north through the charming village of Alden, toward Clam River, before looping back to the Crystal Beach food stop. The route will then rejoin the 26 mile route to the post ride picnic in Elk Rapids.

Our signature 68 mile ride circles Torch Lake passing through Eastport, Atwood, Alden and Torch River with hills, lakeside flats, and scenic countryside views.

All new for 2026 is the 105 mile Chain-O-Lakes Century ride that adds to the 68 mile route with extensions that include Central Lake, Ellsworth and Bellaire. A truly epic route, it was designed with the goal of maximizing lakeside views across the entire upper chain of lakes that comprise the Elk River Watershed.

Ride Fees

$65 - (2/1 - 3/31)

$75 - (4/1 - 7/9)

$85 - “Day of Ride” registration

$40 - children 12 and under

*online fee and sales tax (when applicable) applied at checkout

Preregistration

• Opens on February 1 and closes on July 9

• $10 discount for early registration!

• Is limited to 1000 riders

• All preregistration is online

Day of Event Registration

• Is also available in person on July 19, 2026 from 7:00-10:00 am

Maps

Navigable versions of our routes are available via the online RideWithGPS service. Our club account enables all participants to enjoy the turn-by-turn voice commands as they navigate the route using the free version of Ride With GPS and their app on a smartphone!

Printable versions of all route maps with cue sheets are downloadable in a PDF format.

Hard-copy maps with cue sheets will also be provided in your registration packet on the day of event.

Ride Details

HIGHLIGHTS

• Detailed route maps and cue sheets provided

• Roving SAG support

• Great snacks at food stops

• Lunch will be a wonderful catered buffet at the end of the ride at Veteran’s Park in Elk Rapids. The menu includes: BBQ Pulled Pork, All-Beef Hot Dogs, Vegan Veggie Burgers, Creamy Cole Slaw, Italian Pasta Salad, Spinach Salad with Roasted Beets, Fresh Fruit, Black Cherry Ice Cream and Lemonade

• Showers back at the High School until 4:00 pm

• Swimming at the Veteran’s Park Beach on East Bay

• Free camping the night before the ride

• Pre-ride bike tech support provided at registration by Bayfront Beach & Bike

• Class 1, 2 and 3 E-bikes are welcome

• Tour profits are donated to organizations and groups that support and improve bicycling in our region through our grant program

SAFETY

• All riders are expected to follow the health guidelines at the time of the ride. Hand sanitizer will be readily available at all locations during the day. Cooperation with guidelines is imperative for the success and safety of the Ride Around Torch and we thank you for your efforts.

• Helmets must be worn by all riders

• Riders are to obey all traffic rules and laws and to ride in a courteous and safe manner. Michigan law requires cyclists to ride as close to the right as practicable and not more than two abreast

• Children 15 and under must be accompanied by a cycling adult

Packet Pick-up

• Packet pick-up is 7:00-10:00 am at the Elk Rapids High School

• Earlier packet pick-up is not available

• 105 milers must start by 8:00 am

• 68 milers must start by 9:00 am

• SAG support ends on all routes at 3:00 pm, AND post-ride picnic ends at 4:00 pm so gauge your ride time accordingly

• Parents or guardians must sign a release for riders aged 17 or under

• Your wristband is your admission to food stops, the picnic and for SAG support

START/FINISH LOCATION

The start location is Elk Rapids High School, 308 Meguzee Point Rd, Elk Rapids MI 49629. It is located on the east side of Elk Rapids, about 17 miles north of Traverse City off US 31. At the traffic light on US 31, turn east on Ames Street and follow the signs to the school.

The finish and After RAT Party location is at the stunning beachfront at Veteran's Memorial Park in downtown Elk Rapids where we enjoy the day, live music, and our delightful picnic buffet. It is less than 2 miles from the tour starting point and bike routes are marked for your return.

REFUND POLICY

The RAT is a rain or shine event. Individuals may cancel their registration and request a refund up to July 6.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Questions may be directed to [email protected]

Our two, one-day tours, the Ride Around Torch and the Leelanau Harvest Tour have enabled the CCCC to conduct a productive and meaningful grant program that supports bicycling projects that contribute to achieving our mission of promoting bicycling as part of a healthy lifestyle. Since 1999 the CCCC has proudly granted $500,000 to local organizations seeking to do projects like this.

Leelanau Harvest Tour

For more cycling fun, plan to ride with us on our stellar fall event, the Leelanau Harvest Tour on Saturday, September 12, 2026. Originating out of Sutton's Bay Michigan, this tour features the best of fall scenery along bike paths and country roads, passing along lakes, beaches, apple orchards, and rolling hills.