In September 2019 I participated in the Great Lake to Lake Route 1 Inaugural Tour. The route started in South Haven on the Lake Michigan shore and the end point was Port Huron at the base of Lake Huron.
This tour was promoted by the Michigan Trails and Greenways organization. This route basically follows an train bed. Some areas the property was no longer available and connector paths and routes needed to create connectivity. Riding this route had been a dream of mine since I first saw a map along the Macomb Orchard Trail that depicted the potential route.
This route is around 275 miles with the vast amount on trails. I enjoyed this ride that I would love to do it again. Thanks to the many volunteers who helped to develop the trailway.
This tour was promoted by the Michigan Trails and Greenways organization. This route basically follows an train bed. Some areas the property was no longer available and connector paths and routes needed to create connectivity. Riding this route had been a dream of mine since I first saw a map along the Macomb Orchard Trail that depicted the potential route.
This route is around 275 miles with the vast amount on trails. I enjoyed this ride that I would love to do it again. Thanks to the many volunteers who helped to develop the trailway.
South Haven is a resort community on the Lake Michigan Shore. This area has been a seasonal hot spot for over 100 years.
We received a choice of places to stay which provided a preferred rate based on the tour. We made our own reservations through the trip.
The Victoria Resort was a beautiful setting within the town. We stayed in a individual cottage building . We were there a short time and could not take advantage of the wonderful amenities. We plan to go back and take more time. There was an evening rider orientation meeting.
The evening meeting did not give us much time to explore the shore. The clouds did not allow the sunset photo. A boat was heading out for an evening trip.
There is rain in the forecast and I can see where it may be right. You cannot feel the wind in the photo.
The rain was pouring when I loaded up the trailer carrying the gear. I used my poncho while it poured. Breakfast was under a tarp.
The Kal Haven Trail lead us to Kalamazoo. The rain was on and off. Everyone was excited to get going and we moved along.
I was glad that I chose the gravel tires. I felt very stable in the muddy conditions.
Each day we had several stops with water and treats. A restroom spot was also appreciated.
At the end of day one I had a shower and so did the bike. No drips in the hotel room in Kalamazoo.
