Gran Portage Bike Tour
October 5, 2024
We’re can’t wait to see you at the second-annual Minneapolis Cider Gran Portage, an enchanting Twin Cities bike ride that will benefit Friends of the Boundary Waters, coming this fall, October 5, 2024.
The Gran Portage is a non-competitive ride starting at the Minneapolis Cider Co. taproom in Northeast Minneapolis. This year the ride is raising funds to support Friends of the Boundary Waters. The tour is named after the Italian “Gran Fondo” or “Big Ride” and the French “Portage”, a canoeist’s nod to the lands linking the ride’s waterways including the Minnesota and Mississippi Rivers, and the famous lakes of Minneapolis and St. Paul.
Not only will you have a fantastic time, but your participation will also make a meaningful difference. 100% of the net proceeds from this event will be donated directly to Friends of the Boundary Waters, to safeguard our cherished wilderness.
SCHEDULE
Gran Portage
Registration Opens: 8am
Start Time: 9am
Demi Portage
Start Time: 10am
Minne Portage
Start Time: 11am
Post Ride Party
1pm-6pm with bands Luke Warm and the Cool Hands, and Dirt Don’t Hurt
Routes
FAQ
Where and When is the Gran Portage ride?
October 5, 2024 departing from Minneapolis Cider Co., 701 SE 9th St., Minneapolis, MN
Three rides will have different start times:
- Gran Portage (60 miles): 9am start
- Demi Portage (35 miles): 10am start
- Mini Portage (10 miles): 11am start
- After ride party! 12pm
We’re hosting a gear expo and live music in the Haralson Room after the ride! We will have food and drinks, games, and you will be able to make purchases on site. This is open to the public so make sure to bring family and friends to chill out after and enjoy a cold beverage. Each registrant will receive a free cider or drink for after the ride.
Is it a “ride”? Or a “race”?
Picture this as a cycling celebration, not a competition. Our non-competitive ride is all about enjoying the journey, scenery, and camaraderie with fellow bike enthusiasts. You’ll be collecting smiles instead of finish times, so leave the race face at home and bring your sense of adventure. It’s the perfect blend of pedal power and good vibes on open roads.
How long are the ride routes?
There’s something for all levels of cyclists, with rides available at 60, 35, 10 miles. Whether you’re an experienced rider or new to cycling, we’ve got a distance that’s sure to fit individuals and groups, and put a smile on your face!
How do I register?
Great news –Registration is now open! You can sign up online in advance, or even register on the day of the event at our sign-in area. Just remember, all riders need to sign a waiver before hitting the road. It’s quick, easy, and then you’re all set for a fantastic ride!
Is there an age limit?
No age limit – kids are encouraged to ride, and older adults too! A 10-mile route (Minne-Portage) is available to families and younger riders. Ride to your ability.
Rest/Aid/Bathroom Stops – what are they and how often?
- We’ll have a variety of rest stops on the 35 and 60 mile routes with access to water, restrooms and refreshment – either provided by ride volunteers or friendly businesses along the route. No resupply stops are provided on the 10 mile Minne route.
Stops at Local businesses & Parks:
- Sea Salt
- Rustica
- City House
- The Get Down Coffee Co
- Crosby Farm picnic shelter
- Lake Phalen picnic shelter
Details will appear on maps and materials as the ride nears.
Will I need GPS cycling computer?
No, there will be a variety of ways to navigate the routes. However, GPS maps of each route will be available, we recommend downloading them (along with a GPS app such as the free version of the Ride with GPS app). Rides will be marked with signs. Route downloads are available above.
Will there be mechanical support?
We’ll have a mechanic at the beginning of the ride for any last-minute issues. To prevent mechanical issues en route, please check your bike before the ride. If you have a mechanical issue on the route, we will have a SAG support number to call. The SAG support can help you get your bike back to Minneapolis Cider Co.
What about SAG support?
If you have a mechanical issue on the route, we will have a SAG support number to call. The SAG support can help you get your bike back to Minneapolis Cider Co.
If you get injured, please seek medical help immediately. Our SAG support is for transportation only – in an emergency of any kind, PLEASE CALL 911!
What happens after the ride? Will there be cider?
Yes! After conquering the Gran Portage ride, we’re shifting gears to party mode! Celebrate your pedal-powered triumph and spend the afternoon with your fellow cyclists at Minneapolis Cider (your new favorite hangout spot)
- What’s included? One free drink to quench your epic thirst
- What’s cooking?
- Bike-tastic expo and marketplace (gear up!)
- Live tunes to keep those legs moving
- Mouth-watering food to refuel
- Cider so good, you’ll forget you’re tired
- THC beverages for that extra relaxation boost
Is the ride on bike paths, or roads?
Our 3 epic routes are a mix of roads and bike paths, giving you the best of both worlds. We’re expecting the ride to be spread out in smaller groups, so roads will not be blocked off for us (yet!). In cases with both a road or path, riders can choose to ride where they feel most comfortable. Please follow all traffic laws when in the road, let other riders know you are approaching.
Where do I Park?
There’ll be parking behind Minneapolis Cider Co., near the door to the Haralson Room, where riders will gather and the Party and Expo will be hosted in the afternoon.
Signature Sponsors
Volunteers
We’re looking for volunteers on site for the ride, and to help with course set-up and activities the day of the ride.