The public is invited to join Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Commissioner Tom Landwehr on a 122-mile “prairie pedal” bicycle ride from Luverne to Marshall, July 29-31.
The event is the first by the DNR commissioner for the area.
Stops along the three-day ride will highlight some of the area’s outdoor recreational opportunities in southwest Minnesota. Total time to ride all three legs is estimated at 10 hours.
“The diversity of Minnesota’s natural resources and outdoor recreational opportunities is immense, but northern Minnesota gets much of the attention,” Landwehr said. “This tour will help us highlight the very beautiful prairie landscape and the many biking and camping opportunities that are available in southwestern Minnesota.”
Biking enthusiasts and other interested individuals can join the commissioner at any of the stops or rides scheduled each day.
Helmets are required for cyclists on the ride.
Planned events are free, but state park vehicle fees may apply.
Currently the schedule is as follows:
Wednesday, July 29: Participants complete a 36- mile ride (estimated time three hours) beginning at 9-9:30 a.m. in Luverne. Bicyclists begin the five-mile ride to Blue Mounds State Park; 9:30-10 a.m. visit Blue Mounds State Park; 12:30-2:30 p.m. community picnic at Split Rock Creek State Park (bring your own lunch); the first day’s ride finishes in Pipestone.
Thursday, July 30
The 43-mile ride with an estimated time 3 hours, 30 minutes will begin at 9-9:30 a.m. with a 5-mile ride on Casey Jones Trail from Pipestone to County Road 16, finishing at Lake Shetek State Park; 7-7:30 p.m., 2-mile ride within the park; 7:30-8:30 p.m., commissioner’s campfire at Lake Shetek State Park.
Friday, July 31
Final day is a 45-mile ride (estimated at 3 hours 40 minutes) beginning at 9-9:30 a.m. at Lake Shetek State Park with a 12:30-2:30 p.m. lunch at Camden State Park (bring your own lunch); and a 3:30 p.m. end of ride reception at Marshall High School.
RSVPs for the commissioner’s Prairie Pedal Bike Tour are requested but are not required.
For more information on the family-friendly event or to sign up to ride, contact CommissionersBikeRide.dnr@state.mn.us.
A shuttle bus will be available July 28 for participants to leave personal vehicles at the Marshall High School and ride a shuttle bus to Luverne. The shuttle will operate from 5 to 7 p.m.