Alexandera meets new friends on trail to Ely

I had the pleasure and honor of scouting our new bikepacking course with Alexandera Houchin. We rode the 320 miles from Two Harbors to Ely to Grand Marais and back to Two Harbors to double check sections that mapping from home just can’t interpret. Along the way, we discussed social justice, what makes a good story, gear, bikes, books, and Tour Divide memories.

We also happened upon this fella taking his goat, donkey and gigantic dog for a walk. The world seemed to be painted in nothing but bright green and blue. It was good to get those long miles in, wanting to keep going past the towns, into the woods, sleeping when you finally get tired. This is bikepacking.

I am in the process of re-discovering what this region of Minnesota means for cycling, public use, and how cyclists fit into its history and future. In this crazy period of history, this style of cycling still provides both a place to think and plan as well as tune out and unwind. I am often solo during these scouting trips and having an extremely capable exploring companion (other than the Charlie Farrow) was a major bonus. Alexandera is exceptionally strong, insightful and big hearted.

We will be providing these fresh route gpx files to those who registered for the cancelled Heck Epic. We will also be working with Trackleaders.com so that those interested in racing against the clock can log their individual time trials (ITT) publicly. I know personally that there is space for both those who want to challenge themselves incognito (no gps tracking device) and those who want the world to see their efforts (via Trackleaders.com.) Mostly, though, I look forward to the next season we can run this event with both the challenge of racing and the joys of socializing. Hang in there!

Ride the Good Line

Jeremy Kershaw