Head for the Hills Registration is Open!

It's an indicator of summer.  Head for the Hills registration is open.  The Farmer's Almanac says that September is going to warmer and dryer than usual.  That sounds good for those of us looking forward to this the 12th annual bike ride.  We're looking forward to a banner year with 200 riders.

Join us for a 32 km. group ride along the Trans Canada Trail south of Morden and Winkler.  The trail starts at Colert Beach west of Morden, skirts Lake Minnewasta and climbs the north shore connecting with the Stanley Trail.  After crossing the Dead Horse Creek, the trail climbs to the south, out of the valley and into a wooded, rolling single-track for several kilometres with open views of the valley.  Leaving the single-track, (1^st rest stop) the trail follows dirt and gravel roads past undulating farmland and marshes.  After 7 miles, the trail enters a pasture road that climbs the escarpment, (2^nd rest stop) winding through grassland on the edge of oak stands, passing an old Mennonite cemetery.  This leads to the final section of trail which is entirely wooded single-track through oak and poplar stands along the creeks of the Pembina escarpment. 

 This portion of the ride offers physically challenging climbs and descents as well as incredible scenery along the route.  The colours can be quite breathtaking this time of year.  I should be a comfort to know that there are 2 rest stops along the way including refreshments and porta-pottis as well as a “sag wagon” to pick you up if needed.  

Alternate road route options take you along rolling country roads. Trained volunteers are also on hand to provide first aid and technical support if needed.  We finish 2 miles from the US border on a hill overlooking the Red River Valley.   

There will be a shelter provided for you to relax under as we wait for all riders to complete.  A barbeque lunch will be provided for all riders as they arrive at noon with the awards presentations right after.  You and your bike will then be transported back to the starting area at Colert Beach by mid-afternoon.  

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Click HERE to register for Head for the Hills.

If you’d like to down-load a full description, the route map and a mail-in registration form, please click HERE [.zip]