Our very first Reader's Route comes from Nate Long. The 51-mile route is near Mondovi, Wisconsin in Buffalo County with almost 5,000 feet of climbing. Submission from Nate Long: A mix of road and gravel through many scenic valleys southwest of Mondovi. The route contains 4,600 feet of total climbing which include 3 categorized climbs. The beautiful views of the driftless area are worth the effort. A must see during peak autumn colors. ADD YOUR NAME & ROUTE TO OUR NEWEST COMMUNITY MAP Submit Your Reader's Route

Today we're announcing a brand new project called "Reader's Routes". This is an ever-growing map of YOUR favorite places to ride gravel up north. If you have a favorite place to ride gravel, this is your place to add it to the map. If you need a gravel route in a certain area, this is your place to find it. To learn more about this project and add your name to the map, visit the Reader's Routes

Dave Schlabowske of Life Above Eight just announced that he's taking over the Hungry Bear 100, a well-loved gravel race in Cable Wisconsin. In this interview, we talk about how he came to be the new Race Director and some of his favorite things about the Northwoods of Wisconsin. To learn more, visit the Hungry Bear . Hey Dave, tell us about the Hungry Bear 100. The Hungry Bear 100 is a gravel race started in 2008 by Tim Krueger ( Esker Cycles / Terrene Tires ) and Mick Endersbe ( The Rivers Eatery/Tilly’s Pies ). The race began just to promote the great gravel riding around the tiny town of Cable, WI. Tim is from the area, and now runs Esker Cycles and Terrene Tires. Mick moved to the area and opened the Rivers Eatery and Tilly’s Pies, which have become the unofficial finish lines of every race and event in the area. How is Hungry Bear 100 different from other gravel rides and what made you interested in taking it over? I moved to Seeley, WI in December of 2020 after I was offered the executive director job for the Chequamegon Area Mountain Bike Association. The new CAMBA strategic plan called for expanding CAMBA staff with funds from a new small portfolio of events. I knew Tim’s business was growing and he had offered his events (he also has the Chequamegon 100 MTB race) to CAMBA a few years ago, but CAMBA was not ready to own events then. Once I took the job as ED, I talked to Tim and we agreed CAMBA would take over his events in 2022. Unfortunately, soon after I accepted the CAMBA job, some key members of the board of directors left and there was a shift in priorities. The new board president told me he was not a big believer in events for CAMBA and so I resigned as that was a focus of mine, and I was no longer a good fit for the organization. That left Tim still needing someone to take over his events. I shadowed Tim and his wife Odia at the 2021 events and really liked the DIY vibe and associated low participant cost common to that style of race. When you skip all the age group prizes, podiums, etc., you can keep registration fees low. I also liked the “family reunion” feel to the events (where everyone knew Tim and Odia as well as many of the other racers.) So, to make sure the events don’t die, I agreed to take them over. I created the Life Above 8, LLC to hold ownership. I will manage them until I can find a permanent home. Perhaps if CAMBA hires a new executive director and the organization wants to own events again, I can turn them over at that time. Until then, I will keep them running. Are there any changes you’re planning for this year or future years of Hungry Bear 100? I love exploring all the gravel and trails in the Chequamegon area. The route options are endless and ever changing as timber sales open up new logging roads that create new connections to forest roads. So I definitely would like to change the route at some point but not this first year. I’m gonna keep the route the same. I am also interested in promoting a bit more diversity at the start line. I’m not yet sure how to do that, but I am in some early conversations with equity leaders in the gravel/bikepacking community. Hopefully we can make something good happen in the equity arena. This event starts and ends in Cable, WI and centers around The Rivers Eatery. What’s so special about Cable and the Rivers Eatery? I’m glad you asked that. First, part of the early idea and planning for the Hungry Bear came from Mick Endersbe who owned the business with his wife Beth. There was a time when Gary Penman created the Sawmill Saloon down the road in Seeley and that became the unofficial finish line for the area ski and bike races. The Sawmill is less than a mile from where I live, so it remains my neighborhood watering hole, but Mick and Beth really worked to embrace the silent sports community at the Rivers. Besides serving awesome brick oven pizza and a wide selection of area craft beers, the walls are covered with ski and bike jerseys from famous pros, bikes with historic significance hang from the rafters, and Dirt Rag (RIP) and Silent Sports magazines were always on the tables. So Rivers has been the new unofficial finish line for area bike and ski events for a while now. Mick and Beth created a great business and worked hard to promote the tiny town of Cable to the silent sports crowd. In a sense, they did in Cable with the Rivers Eatery what Gary Penman did in Seeley with the Sawmill Saloon. Now Gary did a lot more things related to ski trails and home-building, but I think the parallels are valid. When people put that much heart and soul into a business, it is often rewarded with a very loyal following of people who think of themselves as more than customers. Tim, Odia, Mick and Beth have that characteristic in common. You recently started Life Above Eight; what’s that all about? While I am trying to be semi-retired after 20+ years as a bike advocate working for the Wisconsin Bike Fed and as the first City of Milwaukee Bicycle/Pedestrian Coordinator, I do still need an outlet for my creative energy. Once I left CAMBA, I decided to create a new website to share my thoughts, photos, videos and promote what I love about this corner of the Wisconsin Northwoods. The site is mostly about biking/bikepacking, but will also include future content about skiing, hunting, fishing, the events I work on and what it is like to move to the Northwoods. My wife and I have worked our whole professional careers in the non-profit and public service sectors. People can read more about my wacky background on the About Me page of my website if they are curious. We still want to be part of a community and try to give back. The Hungry Bear and Cheq 100 races donate all profits after expenses back to the community. So that fits well with the Life Above 8 “Up North for Good” tagline. We have moved Up North for good (instead of visiting on vacations) but we also want to give back as we meet more of our neighbors and learn more about our new locale. Apart from Rivers Eatery and Hungry Bear, what are some of your favorite things in the Northwoods? That is another really good question. My mom is from Park Falls, and I have been vacationing “Up North” since I was a little kid, so I have come to love things like 100-year-old resorts, little taverns, deer hunting, fishing and supper clubs. But honestly, being Up North is really about interacting with the living forests and lakes and trying to learn to understand them better. I don’t mean just learning phenology and how to identify red dogwood, etc, I mean really trying to learn from the land and water. I’m not a real spiritual guy, but the more time I spend in the forest and the more I slow down to smell, look, listen and reflect, the more I feel like I become part of that world, which is an incredibly rewarding feeling. The forest is a community made up of living things that all communicate with each other, depend on each other, etc. The more time I spend in the woods, the more I feel like I am standing in a crowd in a foreign country where I only understand a tiny bit of what is being said around me. But the more I begin to learn about that forest community, the more rewarding every bike ride, hike, snowshoe or ski trip I do is. I still know next to nothing, but I’m trying to learn little bits every time I go outside. The Indigenous communities who were forced out of this land understood that so much better than we do. From what I have read, the early voyageurs seemed to have understood that they could learn a lot from the Indigenous tribes they traded furs with. It is such a tragic missed opportunity that western Europeans tried to erase all that culture rather than learn from it. I honestly think the world would be a much better place if they had. I hope that doesn’t come across as too preachy, but for a guy whose parents left the Catholic church when I was only 3-years-old, the forest has become my church and listening to it and trying to learn from it my new religion. Dave, you’ve been the architect of several incredible routes and events, you just took over Hungry Bear and Chequamegon 100, and Life Above Eight is quickly becoming a home base for Northwoods bike adventures. Why? Why have you poured so much of yourself into this area? Boy, I really like bicycling, camping and Wisconsin’s amazing Northwoods. Remember; I worked in bicycle advocacy for more than 20 years. When I like something, I like to try to share that enthusiasm with others. It’s kind of like when you taste something really delicious at a new restaurant, you want to share it with people at your table and might even wonder how you can make it at home. Gravel riding and bikepacking in the Wisconsin Northwoods are something that once I tasted it, I loved it and wanted everyone to try. What else should we know about the Hungry Bear 100? Just that we will monitor the whole Pandemic/Covid thing and take safety precautions as needed. Last year we had a mask requirement at the start and didn’t plan an after party. Hopefully we won’t need those protocols and everyone can get together and socialize in close quarters this year, but that will be determined by what happens in the future. This year's Hungry Bear 100 is scheduled for May 14, 2022. If you're interested in riding in the event, head over to Life Above Eight to learn more and sign up.

The Hungry Bear 100 and Snacking Bear 60 took place on a gorgeous day last weekend in Cable, Wisconsin. This year, the event was transferred to Seeley Dave and went off beautifully. Chris Schotz did the event and shares his post race recap here. To learn more visit, the Hungry Bear. Words: Chris Schotz Photos: David Schlabowske Who doesn’t want another excuse to head up to Cable, the quiet little town with a lot going on? A Chequamegon gravel race was a new way for us to kick off a weekend that could lead to a singletrack Sunday or Namekagon paddle. Over 300 of us salivated on the start line like emaciated bears outside River’s Eatery and Tilly’s Pies. Cable was soon abandoned as our rolling population stuck together in a pack numbering 100 for the asphalt opener that was brisk, but never a strain. The opening miles flew by in a peloton that often stretched ditch to ditch. Everyone stayed attentive, easily able to yield to the two oncoming cars met in the first ten miles. Nobody barged their way to the front. It was time to relax and work together over quiet hills and gentle curves. The race wouldn’t start until Porcupine Road at mile 11 where a sharp bend to the right led to the first gravel climb where the sorting began. The next six miles of gently rolling gravel are for finding your pace and the improvised group that could be your company for the next five hours. One of the things I’ve learned to love about gravel races are the unexpected companions that will help pass the time through the surprising countryside. After the shorter Snacking Bear course split off at mile 16, I found myself trading pulls with Jim and Dieter, a couple gentlemen from across the state that I met for the first time right there on Camp Eight Road. We were not as brave as one who drank right from the stream at mile 31 on the Morgan Falls Climb. She survived to be the first female finisher, and still had water when we all missed the 50-mile water pump at Beaver Lake Campground. The courses had merged and taken us south of Highway M when we finally found the syrup fox and his pop-up aid station. He got a hug, and we left refreshed for the logging road segments that were followed by the punchiest ten miles of the route past Rock Lake. Through wide gravel boulevards and narrow winding lanes the Hungry Bear climbed over 5000 feet before the home stretch up Randysek Road to beer, pizza, and pie. We were hungry and thirsty enough to devour Cable as we sat on the patio furniture like good little bears watching fresh meat roll in from the hills. The Hungry Bear was stage two of the Iron Bear 1000 , a gravel odyssey across the wilds of northern Wisconsin between May and October.

New Moon Bike Shop recently took over the Hungry Bear gravel race for 2024. Seeley Dave sits down with Joel and Daryl in this episode of the Northwoods Ramble podcast to talk through the race and some other happenings going on in the Cable/Seeley area. To learn more about Hungry Bear, visit their event website . In this show Seeley Dave interviews Joel Harrison and Daryl McNutt from ⁠New Moon Ski & Bike Shop⁠ in Hayward, WI. They chat about New Moon taking over the Hungry Bear gravel race, some improvements New Moon can make with their greater resources and what is going to stay the same. After the interview, Dave reviews the different sleeping pads available to borrow from the Bikepacking Gear Lending Library. Also in This Episode: Bikepacking Gear Lending Library Below is a list of the Bikepacking Gear Lending Library Equipment available to loan as of this podcast. Email seeleydave2021@gmail.com if you are interested in borrowing any of it. 5 Salsa EXP Anything Cradle 5 Salsa EXP Dry Bag for Anything Cradle 5 Relevate Designs Terrapin 14L Seatpack 5 Big Agness Copper Spur HV UL2 Bikepacking Shelter 5 Exped Synmat Ultra 1R Mummy air mattress 5 Enlightened Equipment Apex 50° Quilt 5 Trekology pillows 5 BRS 3000T Stoves 1 (so far) Alpacka Raft Caribou RTS 1 (so far) Aqua Bound Whiskey 4 Piece Paddle

The Coon Fork 40 is coming up quickly on Saturday, August 26. If you're visiting the area and want to enjoy some pre-ride or post-ride fun, check out this interactive map. To learn more or register to ride, visit the Coon Fork 40 . All three routes start and end at the hidden waterfall bridge near Coon Fork County Park. They also all include a "Halfway Hang" at the halfway point in Rock Dam as well as a finish line party at the Coon Fork beach. Want to explore the area before you get here? Check out the routes and additional stops you'll want to make: Highlights of the Coon Fork 40 Area Vojtik’s Stockyard Foods A great food stop in the middle of nowhere. They have some light groceries, hot food, and an ice cream cone bar. SHIFT Cyclery & Coffee Bar Opens at 7:30am. Stop here for an espresso and liege waffle or any bike supplies you need. Spring Street Sports Opens at 10am. Shop bikes and parts on your way to or from the race. Boondock's Bar & Grill Classic small town bar and grill with bar food and outdoor seating. Augusta Bakery Opens at 7am. Pick up a donut on the way to your race! Finish Line After Party After crossing the finish line at the hidden waterfall bridge, make your way back to Coon Fork Beach for the after party. Invite the whole family or friend gang to join you for music, food, fun, beer, and swimming. Plus awards for top finishers in their categories. After riders enjoy their free beer and brat, support CORBA through additional food and beverage purchases. The Halfway Hang Plan a midway stop in the lakeside town of Rock Dam at the wooded lake beach pavilion for the Halfway Hang. Whether you stay for five minutes or forty, with tunes and good vibes all around, here you can refuel with free snacks and beverages, or cool off with a dip in the lake thanks to changing rooms right on site (pack your suit!). Rock Dam County Park & Campground Camping, swimming, picnic pavilions, and 2 bars. To learn more or register to ride, visit the Coon Fork 40 .

As we're getting ready for this year's Gravel Pizza Overnighter on Sept 23-24, we're remembering back to last year's event. Several riders shared what what they thought about the event as well as their favorite parts. A few favorite things that kept coming up were camping at Wedges Creek, having wood-fired pizza, cleaning up with on-site showers, riding with other fun people, and enjoying a farm breakfast in the morning. To learn more and get registered, visit The Gravel Pizza Overnighter . 10 Things People Submitted in the Post-Event Survey After Last Year 's Gravel Pizza Overnighter *actual comments from riders 1. "Can all the same riders come back again?! Everyone was great! This event was perfect for me! You gave me a route. You gave me some stops or POI’s. You gave me a place to stay along the way. Perfect!" [ +1 for Camping at Wedges Creek ] [ +1 for Route Highlights ] [ +1 for Community ] 2. "The group rollout at the start was awesome, and staying somewhere with food and showers was also a big plus!" [ +1 for Showers ] [ +1 for Community ] [ +1 for Pizza ] 3. "This event was really special and made so nice by not having to bring food and having a place to hang out together. The breakfast was awesome!" [ +1 for Farm Breakfast ] [ +1 for Community ] 4. "The pizza farm dinner and live music was incredible!! Would be hard to replicate." [ +1 for Pizza ] 5. "Great route, absolutely stellar choice of camping/pizza/music. Having music there was great! Oh, and there likely needs to be a pumpkin cannon @ all future events." [ +1 for Camping at Wedges Creek ] [ +1 for Pizza ] 6. "It's so much easier to bikepack without the bulk of carrying food and it was great to support a local business as well. And it was so yummy!" [ +1 for Pizza ] 7. "Wedge Creek was a delight! Being able to shower at the end of the day is fantastic. Having good stops on the route is always a bonus." [ +1 for Camping at Wedges Creek ] [ +1 for Showers ] [ +1 for Route Highlights ] 8. "The communication about the event was superb from start to finish." [ +1 for Logistics ] 9. "We liked the longer distance on the first day/shorter second & enjoyed the stops along the way. It was super fun to end the day at a unique destination (we had never been to a pizza farm) w/ the food/live music & fire (and cannon, of course)" [ +1 for Camping at Wedges Creek ] [ +1 for Route Highlights ] [ +1 for Pizza ] 10. "Really liked the planned stops along the route. Also really like how the campsite was where we had the option to have dinner and listen to music as well!" [ +1 for Route Highlights ] [ +1 for Camping at Wedges Creek ] Total Score Based on Mentions (Not That This Is a Game) Camping at Wedges Creek : 5 Points Pizza : 5 Points Route Highlights : 4 Points Showers : 2 Points Community : 2 Points Farm Breakfast : 1 Point Logistics : 1 Point Want to Join Us At The Gravel Pizza Overnighter? ( 44 others have already signed up )

Dave Schlabowske from Life Above Eight recently opened a Bikepacking Gear Lending Library with ultralight equipment, tents, bags, stoves, and more. Gear can be picked up and dropped off in Seeley, Wisconsin on your way up north for bikepacking. Learn more and explore rental gear here. To learn more, visit Life Above Eight or browse the Gear Library . Bikepacking is a lot of fun, but the gear to enjoy your trip can be expensive to purchase. Life Above Eight in Seeley, Wisconsin built out this Community Bikepacking Gear Lending Library so people who have never gone bikepacking can give it a try without investing in all the bags, small, lightweight tents and sleep systems, etc. Those who like bikepacking, but only do it once or twice a year can also rent the gear rather than make the $1,000 plus investment in stuff that sits on a shelf 50 weeks a year. Pick up and return the gear from Dave Schlabowske in Seeley, Wisconsin, or make arrangements with Dave to drop off and pick up at a local bike shop. Contact Dave with any questions at SeeleyDave2021@gmail.com. Head over to the Bikepacking Gear Library to check out the gear!

When it comes to combining two exhilarating outdoor activities—biking and rafting—Kokopelli Packrafts have emerged as the go-to choice for adventure enthusiasts. These ingenious inflatable boats are designed to be lightweight, portable, and rugged, making them perfect for bike rafting expeditions. Why Choose Kokopelli Packrafts for Bike Rafting? Kokopelli Packrafts have gained a reputation for their exceptional performance and durability in the world of outdoor adventure. If you're considering bike rafting, here are some compelling reasons why you should opt for a Kokopelli Packraft: 1. Portability One of the primary advantages of Kokopelli Packrafts is their portability. These packrafts are incredibly lightweight and can be easily carried on your bike, allowing you to access remote waterways that are otherwise inaccessible by conventional rafts. Thanks to their inflatable nature, Kokopelli Packrafts can be deflated and rolled up into a compact size, making them ideal for multi-modal adventures where you transition between biking and rafting seamlessly. 2. Durability When embarking on a bike rafting journey, your equipment needs to withstand rugged terrain and unpredictable water conditions. Kokopelli Packrafts are constructed using high-quality materials, such as reinforced PVC, to ensure they can handle the challenges of the outdoors. These packrafts are designed to resist abrasions and punctures, making them resilient against sharp rocks, branches, and other obstacles you may encounter during your bike rafting expedition. 3. Versatility Kokopelli Packrafts are versatile tools that adapt to different adventure scenarios. Whether you're planning a solo bike rafting trip or a group excursion, there's a Kokopelli packraft model to suit your needs. Some models come equipped with extra storage options and attachment points for gear, while others prioritize lightweight design for maximum agility. This versatility allows you to customize your packraft to fit your specific bike rafting requirements. 4. Inflatable Technology Kokopelli's advanced inflatable technology ensures that their packrafts are quick and easy to set up. With the included inflation bag or pump, you can inflate your packraft in minutes, saving you time and effort for your adventure. Additionally, the inflatable nature of Kokopelli Packrafts provides a level of shock absorption, enhancing your comfort during rough water rides and allowing for more control while navigating challenging river sections. Top Kokopelli Packrafts for Bike Rafting Now that you understand the advantages of Kokopelli Packrafts for bike rafting, let's delve into some of the top models available on the market: Kokopelli Rogue-Lite The Kokopelli Rogue-Lite is a standout choice for bike rafting enthusiasts seeking a lightweight, high-performance packraft. Weighing in at just 4.9 pounds (2.2 kg), it won't weigh you down during your biking segments. This packraft features Kokopelli's Feather-Ride™ seating system, providing comfort and stability as you paddle through rivers and streams. With a durable construction and abrasion-resistant material, the Rogue-Lite can handle the rigors of bike rafting with ease. Kokopelli Nirvana If you're planning extended bike rafting trips or need extra storage space for gear, the Kokopelli Nirvana is an excellent choice. This packraft boasts an impressive carrying capacity while maintaining a manageable weight of 8.5 pounds (3.9 kg). Equipped with multiple tie-down points, the Nirvana allows you to secure your bike and gear for safe transport across water. Its reinforced floor ensures durability, even in rocky riverbeds or shallow sections. Kokopelli Rogue The Kokopelli Rogue is a versatile and budget-friendly option for bike rafting adventurers. It strikes a balance between performance and affordability, making it accessible to a wide range of outdoor enthusiasts. With a streamlined design and a weight of 5.6 pounds (2.5 kg), the Rogue is easy to transport on your bike. Its inflatable seat and backrest provide comfort during long rides on the water, and its puncture-resistant build ensures durability throughout your journey. Kokopelli Moki-Lite For those seeking a packraft with the utmost portability, the Kokopelli Moki-Lite is a top pick. Weighing an astonishingly low 4.2 pounds (1.9 kg), it's perfect for bike rafters who prioritize minimizing weight while maximizing adventure. Despite its lightweight design, the Moki-Lite doesn't compromise on durability. It features a tough PVC construction that can withstand the bumps and scrapes of bike rafting. Its minimalist design ensures quick setup and easy handling. Tips for Choosing the Right Kokopelli Packraft Now that you've been introduced to some of the top Kokopelli packrafts for bike rafting, it's essential to consider your specific needs and preferences before making a decision. Here are some tips to help you choose the right Kokopelli packraft for your adventure: 1. Determine Your Trip Duration If you plan on embarking on extended bike rafting trips, opt for a packraft with ample storage capacity like the Kokopelli Nirvana. For shorter outings or day trips, a lightweight model such as the Kokopelli Rogue-Lite may be sufficient. 2. Assess Terrain and Water Conditions Consider the types of rivers and waterways you'll encounter during your bike rafting adventures. If you expect to navigate rocky or shallow areas, prioritize a packraft with robust construction like the Kokopelli Rogue or Kokopelli Nirvana. 3. Evaluate Your Budget Your budget plays a significant role in your packraft selection. While the Kokopelli Rogue is an excellent budget-friendly choice, those willing to invest more should explore options like the Kokopelli Rogue-Lite and Kokopelli Nirvana for enhanced features and durability. 4. Think About Comfort Comfort is crucial for a pleasant bike rafting experience. Look for packrafts with ergonomic seating systems like the Kokopelli Rogue-Lite's Feather-Ride™ system, ensuring you stay comfortable during long rides on the water.

Josh from The Nxrth was recently a guest on The Northwoods Ramble podcast. He and Seeley Dave talked about a new bikepacking route Josh is publishing in Itasca County Minnesota, working from ROAM Adventure Basecamp in Seeley, as well as other gravel updates from the northwoods. Listen in here:

The Wisconsin premier of the 'THE LAST DAMN' is taking place on Friday, August 18 at the Rivoli Theater & Pizzeria in La Crosse, Wisconsin. The event is free and includes a Q&A with filmmaker Nick Kapanke. Learn more about the event and tickets here. For more info, follow the Facebook event . Checkpoint Zero Films recently released 'THE LAST DAMN' which follows numerous racers as they attempt to complete The Day Across Minnesota in 2021. Ben Weaver, a poet, musician, and DAMn veteran beautifully narrates this trailer with an excerpt from his poem 'The DAMn'. Created by local filmmaker Nicholas Kapanke, come join them for a celebration of the human spirit, togetherness, and the power of the bicycle to open our minds and hearts. Tickets are FREE! Event organizers are asking that you reserve the tickets you will be needing HERE . Please only confirm the seats you will need and if you are not able to attend please let them know 48 hours in advance so they can open those seats back up.

The second annual Gravel Pizza Overnighter is coming on Sept 23-24. Riders can choose between one night and two nights. This community bikepacking event includes bikepacking, camping, welcome drink, Embark maple syrup, and a farm breakfast in the morning. To learn more and get registered, visit the Gravel Pizza Overnighter page. Top 13 Reasons to Join Gravel Pizza This community bikepacking event rolls through tangled waters and towering pines. Along the way, we'll make stops for cheese curds and again for a beer in Rock Dam before arriving at Wedges Creek for pizza, camping, music, and camaraderie. These are our favorite reasons to invite you to join us for fall bikepacking together: 1. Meet Other Bikepackers Ride with new like-minded people from all over the north. You'll have plenty of opportunities to ride with different people, join up with a new group, make new connections at the drink stop in Rock Dam, and sit around the fire sharing new stories at Wedges Creek. 2. Ride The Nxrth's Favorite Handpicked Gravel Grab Bag The Eau Claire County forest is my (Josh's) gravel home and I put together all of my favorite stretches to showcase the area and give you a bikepacking experience with constant variety. Rivers, lakes, hills, winding forests, and farms. Total mileage is ~45 and there's not a boring mile on the route. 3. Finish In The Pines At Wedges Creek This is a special place. It's tucked at the end of some beefy gravel roads and is surrounded by trees. Grab a drink and sit around one of the campfires and get to know new people while your pizza is being cooked. There are full bathroom and shower services so you can even freshen up for the evening. 4. Wood-Fired Pizza Is On The Menu After a day of riding, you gotta eat well and wood-fired pizza is tough to beat. Pies run about $24/each, they're made to order, and they've got dessert pizza on the menu as well. 5. Live Music From The Sliced Bread Jug Band As the sun is going sun is going down, enjoy music on the farm from the Sliced Bread Jug Band. Wedge's Creek has an outdoor stage with seating and campfires as well as an indoor event building in case of inclement weather. 6. Route Stops Include Cheese Curds & Beer Two famous gravel stops are perfectly spaced right on the route: Vojtik's Stockyard for cheese curds and ice cream and then AKA Lakeside for a drink on the lake in Rock Dam. 7. Constant Views Of Rivers, Lakes, & Towering Pines Bike through a rotating scene of forests and waterways. The Eau Claire river splits and we'll go by the north and south forks of the river. We'll also be hanging out at Rock Dam Lake for a drink at AKA Lakeside before the final leg of the ride. 8. Farm Breakfast Is Included Wake up at Wedges Creek for coffee, eggs, hash browns, sausage, and toast. After filling up, we'll pack up our tents and head back to the starting point via a shorter gravel route. 9. Add The Optional Community Night & Social Ride On Friday Add a second night of riding, camping, and stopping at Boondock's for drinks and apps on Friday night. This is a community night and will be a great time to get to know others before the riding on Saturday. 10. You Can Leave Your Cookset & Stove At Home No need to cook. The entire weekend is built around having places to stop and eat on the route. You can grab food at Vojtik's Stockyard for lunch on Saturday. Supper is pizza at Wedges Creek, then farm breakfast is included on Sunday morning before beginning your ride back to the cars. 11. Welcome Drink Is Included (You Rode Hard. You Deserve It) Park your bike and set up your tent then head on over to the bar and grab a free welcome drink. They've got beer and wine on tap which tastes amazing-er after a nice long ride. 12. Embark Maple Included Salted maple syrup is the perfect energy source for long distance rides. The sugar gives you energy and the salt helps you stay hydrated. Your includes 3-pack variety sample of Salted, Coffee, and Elderberry. 13. Fall Season Means Cooler Nights Summer is winding down and fall is gearing up. Enjoy cooler riding during the day and a flannel evening around the fire as chillier nights start to become the norm. To learn more and get registered, visit the Gravel Pizza Overnighter page.