Routes

The 26 mile ride is an out and back around the north end of Elk Lake through Torch River to the food stop at Crystal Beach Park. It features the same hills and flats of the other routes only less.

The 40 mile ride extends the 26 mile ride from the Crystal Beach Park food stop, by going east, then north through the charming village of Alden, toward Clam River, before looping back to the Crystal Beach food stop. The route will then rejoin the 26 mile route to the post ride picnic in Elk Rapids.

Our signature 63 mile ride circles Torch Lake passing through Eastport, Clam River, Alden and Torch River with hills, flats, scenic views and multiple food stops. A shortcut is available that reduces the ride to just over 50 miles.

Ride Details

HIGHLIGHTS

• Detailed route maps and cue sheets provided
• Roving SAG support
• Great snacks at food stops
• Lunch will be a wonderful catered buffet at the end of the ride at Veteran’s Park in Elk Rapids. The menu includes: Burgers, Bratwurst, Vegan Veggie Burgers, Red Skin Potato Salad, Italian Pasta Salad, Creamy Coleslaw, Fresh Fruit, Black Cherry Ice Cream and Lemonade.
• Showers back at the School until 4:00 pm.
• Swimming at the Village Beach on East Bay
• Free camping the night before the ride at the School
• Pre-ride bike tech support provided at registration by Mclain Cycle and Fitness
• All classes of E-bikes are welcome
• Tour profits are donated to organizations and groups that support and improve bicycling in our region through our grant program

SAFETY

• All riders are expected to follow the health guidelines at the time of the ride. Hand sanitizer will be readily available at all locations during the day. Cooperation with guidelines is imperative for the success and safety of the Ride Around Torch and we thank you for your efforts. 
• Helmets must be worn by all riders
• Riders are to obey all traffic rules and laws and to ride in a courteous and safe manner. Michigan law requires cyclists to ride as close to the right as practicable and not more than two abreast
• Children 15 and under must be accompanied by a cycling adult

START/FINISH LOCATION

The start location is Elk Rapids High School, 308 Meguzee Point Rd, Elk Rapids MI 49629. It is located on the east side of Elk Rapids, about 17 miles north of Traverse City off US 31. At the traffic light on US 31, turn east on Ames Street and follow the signs to the school.

The finish and After RAT Party location is at the stunning beachfront in downtown Elk Rapids where we enjoy the day, live music, and our delightful picnic buffet. It is less than 2 miles from the tour starting point and bike routes are marked for your return.

REFUND POLICY

The bike tour is a rain or shine event. Individuals may cancel their registration and request a refund up to July 10.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Questions may be directed to ratdirector@cherrycapitalcyclingclub.org

Our two, one-day tours, the Ride Around Torch and the Leelanau Harvest Tour have enabled the CCCC to conduct a productive and meaningful grant program that supports bicycling projects that contribute to achieving our mission of promoting bicycling as part of a healthy lifestyle. Since 1999 the CCCC has proudly granted over $430,000 to local organizations seeking to do projects like this.

Leelanau Harvest Tour

For more cycling fun, plan to ride our stellar fall tour, the Leelanau Harvest Tour on Saturday, September 20, 2025. Starting in Sutton's Bay Michigan, this tour features the best of fall scenery along bike paths and roads, passing along lakes, beaches, apple orchards, and rolling hills.