Ore To Shore’s Annual Epic Bike Race

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2015 MARKS THE 16TH YEAR OF MICHIGAN’S LARGEST MASS START POINT TO POINT RACE

Marquette, MI – With challenging terrains, gorgeous lake views, and unspoiled forests the Ore 2 Shore Epic bike races bring in riders from across the midwest. From seasoned competitors to weekend warriors men, women, and families are traveling here to Marquette for an epic ride each summer.

Ore 2 Shore bike competitors head out on the road from the start of the race Neagaunee, MI, Saturday, August 9, 2014. (photo by Ron Caspi)

For those who know and love the Upper Peninsula it’s no surprise that many of these riders come here for more than just a a good race. Lots of them make a week long trip of it camping, kayaking, and hiking their way across the U.P. and enjoying all the beauty of the natural world here.

The most popular reason folks gave us for returning year after year to ride in the Ore 2 Shore were the friendly people of the U.P., the good food in Marquette, and a well-run challenging race.

There are several races to suit all ages and abilities of the riders. Kid races, a 10-mile event for juniors and those just trying out the race circuit, a 28-mile course for long distance first timers and those riding for personal enjoyment, and the O2S a premiere 48-mile bike race for big challenge seekers. In fact, this one attracts some of the Mid-West’s top riders each year.

The 2014 winner of the 48-mile Ore 2 Shore bike race, Cole House (1) rides hard near the end of the course. (photo by Ron Caspi)

Starting in the small picturesque mining town of Negaunee (where iron ore was first discovered in the Superior region in 1844), passing old mining sites, and progressing through a rich wilderness of forests and streams, gravel hills, and sand pits, the race finishes near the shores of the grand Lake Superior (perfect for jumping in to cool off after the race). Hence, the name Ore 2 Shore.

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The Ore 2 Shore bicycle race features lots of scenic terrain. (photo by Ron Caspi)

If you’re traveling from out of town and intend on camping in Tourist Park (our local in-town campground) be sure to reserve your spot well ahead of time! No doubt many choice hotels are booked up as well. Fortunately Marquette has many to choose from. Find more info about the race and local accommodations at the Ore 2 Shore website