10 Must-Do Summer Rides

Written by
Marc Lindsay
Longer days and plenty of sunshine make the summertime ideal for cycling. Try one of these 10 must-do events that promise for a perfect day on the bike.
San Diego Century Bicycle Tour
Encinitis, California - May 31, 2014
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This challenging 105-mile route begins in Encinitis and takes cyclists around Lake Hodges before climbing up Mt. Woodson to Ramona. For those looking for something shorter, options of 20, 33, and 67 miles are also available.
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Spinderella Ride
Pocatello, Idaho - June 21, 2014
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Choose from five route options ranging from 10 miles to a 100-mile century. A 60-mile two-person relay is also an option for those who'd rather work as a team. Proceeds help to support the National Kidney Foundation and the Cancer Patient's Assistance Fund.
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Los Angeles River Ride
Los Angeles, California - June 22, 2014
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Though there is a 100-mile century option, you can also choose from more beginner-friendly distances of 25, 36 and 50 miles. A free 2-mile kids ride along the LA River Bike Path and the kids safety ride are also available for youngsters new to the sport. All entry fees go toward raising funds to complete the 51 miles of LA River Bikeway by the year 2020.
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Tour of the California Alps-Death Ride
Markleeville, California - July 12, 2014
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Climb over five mountain passes during this epic 129-mile ride that ascends over 15,000 feet. The magnificent scenery of Alpine County and the grueling effort it will take to finish make this experience one you will not soon forget.
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Bucket of Blood Races
Holbrook, Arizona - July 12, 2014
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Held in conjunction with the Arizona Wild West Days, the two-day event features a 20-mile bike race as well as a half marathon and 10K trail run. The race ends at the legendary crossing of Route 66.
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Harlem Valley Rail Ride
Millerton, New York - July 25, 2014
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All routes begin and end at Eddie Collins Field in Millerton, voted by Budget Travel Magazine as one of America's top 10 best small towns. Of the five route options, the 25-mile course for beginners feature rolling hills and an elevation gain of 1,407 feet. If you're looking for a challenge, the 100-mile route climbs a total of 8,738 feet. A country festival with food, music and beer are offered after the race.
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Tour de Whatcom
Bellingham, Washington - July 26, 2014
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Get a look at Mount Baker, Lake Whatcom, valleys, rivers, lakes, farmland beaches and the Puget Sound at this annual ride in the Northwest. The century has just 2,200 feet of climbing, which is a great option for your first 100-mile ride.
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Cosmo Champagne Bike Ride
Vancouver, Washington - August 9, 2014
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This all-ladies event is perfect for a day out on the bike with your girlfriends. Choose from 20- or 30-mile bike routes in the morning, and if you're up to it, stay for the evening 7K run. The after party features plenty of good music, food and entertainment that you won't want to miss.
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Crater Lake Century
Klamath Falls, Oregon - August 16, 2014
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Crater lake is one of the deepest lakes in the world, and the views of its 6-mile wide caldera are truly one-of-a-kind. The first 35 miles are on the valley floor, a nice warm-up before you begin the 3,000-foot climb up to the Crater Lake Rim.
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Lancaster Covered Bridge Metric Century
Lancaster, Pennsylvania - August 17, 2014
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Choose from distances of 16, 31, or 62 miles to support restoration projects for local bridges destroyed by Tropical Storm Lee in 2011. A picnic lunch and plenty of ride support are included in the entry fee.
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