Michigan Mountain Mayhem

I've done this event three times and it is a blast! Well organized and well run. You can take your tri bike if you want, but I leave my at home in favor of the road bike. There is plenty of climbing involved and my road bike is more comfortable for that. Anyway, they are really cool about letting you change distances on the day of the event, so if you suddenly feel ambitious, go long(er). If the weather turns to crap or you feel bad at the first major turn, take the shorter route.

End of race food is decent, catered by local restaurants. Beer at the tent too. Starts in-land at the Boyne City High School, where one of the local non-profits offers breakfast for a small fee. Ends at the City park right on the shores of Lake Charlevoix, which is convenient for a post-ride swim.

This is some of the prettiest northern Michigan countryside you will find, and while it is not a closed course, you will run into little traffic. Roads are in excellent shape for the most part, and "The Wall" outside of East Jordan will make your quads cry :-). Overall, it is a fun day.