Where the Locals Run, Ride, and Refuel

When you’re a silent sports enthusiast, the only thing better than the good the exercise does for your health may just be the leeway it gives you to enjoy a little food and drink without the guilt. In Door County, the wide array of group bicycle rides and great bars and restaurants gives you ample opportunity to do just that.

A cold beer is a great reward after 30 - 40 miles on the bike. Bob Dickson, owner of the Shallows Resort in Egg Harbor and one of Door County’s most dedicated cyclists, is a regular in the area’s group bicycle rides, such as the weekly Tuesday night rides that meet at Door County Brewing Co. in Baileys Harbor.

When the ride is done, the crew gathers for beers at the taproom, which will move to a new, larger building down the street this summer. The routine helps Dickson keep up with brewer Danny McMahon’s latest creations.

“I like the ones you can only get on the tap when you can’t find them in the store,” said Dickson.

Terry Chier of Sevastopol is another regular attendee of the Tuesday ride, as well as the weekly morning rides that meet on Third Avenue in Sturgeon Bay. Post-ride, cyclists catch up over a different type of brew at one of the city’s local coffee shops.

While some participants in the peninsula’s group rides include riders with a competitive streak, all rides are welcoming to new riders and visitors, and often have groups comfortable riding at various speeds. These rides are a great way to meet and socialize with locals both on the saddle and on the bar stool post-ride, as well as a phenomenal way to see the beauty of the area.

In addition to weekly evening rides in Baileys Harbor and Sister Bay, you can find weekly morning and evening rides in Sturgeon Bay, including rides for those using hybrid bikes. Just bring a bike in good working order, a helmet, and water. You’re also encouraged to bring a flat repair kit in case of emergency, as well as energy food or bars.

To get the latest information on when and where group rides can be found in Door County, keep up with the Door County Silent Sports Alliance on the web and on Facebook or check in at Nor Door Sport and Cyclery in Fish Creek or Sturgeon Bay.

Door County Bike Rentals

Edge of Park Bike and Moped Rental, Fish Creek

Nor Door Sport and Cyclery, Fish Creek and Sturgeon Bay

Lakeshore Adventures, Baileys Harbor