¡Pick Me Up at the Border! 2026

Description

This is a long-distance, nighttime, gravel ride. Don't miss this unique experience!

There will be three ride options: 25 mile (Belleville), 40 mile (Monticello), and 80 mile (Illinois state line) out and back, asphalt for 5.3 miles in Fitchburg, then all gravel/dirt trail, except for a short detour on Tunnel Road around the closed Stewart Tunnel, beginning at nightfall.

End times vary according to distance. Participants generally return to their motor vehicles at the start point or ride home.

This ride is on the Badger State Trail. Riders are responsible for their own state trail passes.

We meet at 6:30pm for required check-in and safety briefing. Then grab some snacks provided by Fitchburg Family Pharmacy before you hit the trail!

The ride starts at 7pm. We will ride as a group south to the crossing of County Highway M, after which riders may ride in small groups or alone at their own pace and distance.

Your on-line registration fee of $15 is a donation to Bike Fitchburg, Inc., a 501(c)(3) charity devoted to improving biking in Fitchburg, Wisconsin, and is deductible to the full extent of federal and state tax law. You will also sign a release and pay a registration service fee when you register. Additional donations and donations from non-riders support our work and are greatly appreciated!

Helmet and long-lasting headlight(s) are required. Spare lights, batteries, and/or power packs are recommended for the longer distances.

This ride is mostly unsupported, however there will be water and snack stops along the route at the Belleville, Monticello, and Jane Addams Trail trailheads and a 24-hour convenience store in Monroe.

Thank you for supporting bicycle advocacy in Fitchburg!