Below is a message from GMPT Chair Gina Hugo. You can reach her at gina.hugo@co.sherburne.mn.us. July’s…
RECAP: Great River Energy Mesabi Trail Bike Tour 2023
On August 5th, 448 riders joined in the festivities for the Great River Energy Mesabi Trail Tour 2023 held by Club Mesabi, the friends of the Mesabi Trail group. This annual event, which began in 2005, was held on the Soudan to Ely portion of the trail to showcase the newest segments constructed within the last year. Riders had three out-and-back options to choose from, all beginning at the Miners Dry House in Ely: a 12-mile, a 30-mile, or a 50-mile route, each with rest stops featuring food and local music at all turnaround points. Some of the entertainment included musical performances by Bill Maxwell and the Christopher Hanson Band, which held everyone’s attention well. Major sponsors for the event included Great River Energy, the Department of Iron Range Resources & Rehabilitation, and the St. Louis and Lake Counties Regional Railroad Authority, among others.
The day’s weather could not have been nicer, with temps starting at 55° in the morning and climbing to a balmy 81° by the afternoon. The sun was out, but a bit of a haze kept it from being too hot. People were coming out of the woodwork to register the day of the event to the point of nearly running out of registration forms! Club Mesabi board members were on hand during the event, handling tasks from registration, selling concessions and merchandise, running the SAG wagon, helping at the finish line, and all tasks in between. Kudos to all those who volunteered their time for this event!
At the Miners Dry Building, lunch catered by Sunrise Deli was held for all participants. They enjoyed an ethnic treat of porchetta, two different salads, fruit, and six different types of gelato. Live music entertained the participants here as well.
The day went smoothly, except for one mishap that brought the medical team out. A huge shout-out to the folks who helped the injured rider receive prompt and efficient medical care.
This incident turned into a good reminder to all riders to maintain a slower speed—especially on the hills—because it only takes a second to get loose and lose control. The rider and family have indicated they still plan to return for next year’s tour. To that end, the tour was terrific, the riders loved the beauty of this section, and many have said they want to ride it again.
Information on the 2024 tour will be out next spring on the Mesabi Trail Facebook page and on the Mesabi Trail website for those interested in trying it out!
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