The annual Garrett County Gran Fondo fundraiser is scheduled for Saturday, June 22, 2024, presented by Garrett Trails nonprofit.
“Everyone from casual cyclists to experienced athletes will participate in a once-in-a-lifetime experience, with ride lengths varying from 25-125 miles,” said Josh Spiker, Executive Director of Garrett Trails. “From the stunning views of the mountains to the small-town culture at each stop, riders will get to experience all that Garrett County has to offer.”
The participation of hundreds of cyclists supports local trail initiatives led by the Garrett Trails, including advocating for more trails that serve people of all abilities, equal access to public land, and connecting communities with hiking and biking paths.
These challenging rides will take riders through some of the most picturesque spots in the county.
Along the way, riders will experience crossing the Youghiogheny River twice, full-service aid stations located in small towns from Friendsville to Barton, and seven timed climbs that will challenge even the most fit athletes. The timed climbs include some familiar to local residents, such as Bowman Hill, Dry Run Road from Savage River Reservoir, and Michaels Road climbing for over four miles from Barton.
“We are excited to offer this unique opportunity for cyclists to explore and experience what makes Garrett County so special,” Spiker said. “The Gran Fondo is not only an intense physical challenge, but also a great way to explore our beautiful home.”
Riders are reminded that the fundraiser is not an overall race, and to observe all traffic laws.
“We’re grateful for the many people who chose to support us by registering for the GCGF,” Spiker said. “We want everyone to have a great ride and get home safe and have all the routes posted at www.garrettcountygranfondo.org. It’s a good resource for drivers to see where they may encounter groups of cyclists on June 22 from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.”
All rides begin and end at Garrett College on Bumble Bee Road, with finish line festivities for the athletes including music and food from D’s Eats, Go Go Gelato and the Travel Mug.
Everyone is invited to stop by the finish line to learn more about Garrett Trails and its mission to create sustainable hiking and biking trails.
Other sponsors and volunteer partners include the Deep Creek Adventure Bureau, Crossroads Church, The Coyotes Youth Mountain Bike Team, Transformation Church, and Railey Realty.
“It’s the volunteers and partners that are the heart of this fundraiser,” Spiker said, “We’re able to come together one Saturday in June and provide a high-quality outdoor experience for hundreds of people.”
Garrett Trails, based in Garrett County, is a nonprofit organization that seeks to provide accessible and diverse trails for the local community.
The Garrett County Gran Fondo is an annual cycling event organized by Garrett Trails that celebrates the beauty of Garrett County’s roads, trails, and scenery.
To contribute during fundraiser week, visit www.garretttrails.org.
