As Bike the US for MS Alumni, you are always looking forward to that next great bike ride! Our 2025 season will not disappoint. There is something for everyone, especially if you can’t devote a whole summer to a single ride. And don’t forget about the Bike the UK for MS rides!
The rider support for the cause is tremendous! The fact that over 60% of our riders are “repeat” riders speaks highly of the cause and the organization.
Given that many of us have been involved with the organization for over 10 years, it is time to encourage others to join in this adventure. As alumni, you are the ambassadors of the organization. Please reach out to your friends, bike clubs, colleges/universities, and social media groups to encourage more to sign up for rides.
How you can help make our bike rides a success.
The organization’s leadership cannot do it all. Especially if we want more funds donated to go to assisting those living with MS. We have been able to grow and expand over the years with help from all the amazing alumni like you! Bike the US for MS humbly started with a group of friends biking across the country to spread awareness and raise funds to end MS. Please share our story so we can continue to grow and get more riders to join this amazing group of alumni.
A challenge to the Alumni – Review the 2025 schedule and encourage/support one “newbie” to join us for a bike ride! We look forward to a very full ride schedule next year!
Why you should add an MS bike ride to your 2025 calendar
Following the excitement of our ongoing 2024 MS rides, we are ready to starting climbing into 2025! Our Bike the US for MS rides are not just an incredible way to explore beautiful parts of the country whilst making the very best of friends. You are driven by a powerful mission to raise funds and awareness for those living with multiple sclerosis (MS).
BUT, we need your help deciding what new trips we should add to our schedule. Explore some new options to bike for MS in 2025 and have your say! We encourage you to be a part of our journey. Every pedal stroke you take will contribute to making a lasting impact in the lives of those living with MS.
Spanning 4,295 miles from Bar Harbor, Maine to Seattle, Washington, this route is an unforgettable way to bike for MS across the entire country. This trip runs from June 7th to August 16th to catch peak summer weather in each of the 15 states. You’ll be pedaling through highlights like two of the Great Lakes, Niagara falls, the Rocky Mountains, and Glacier National Park with plenty of rolling green hills and welcoming towns in between.
Act fast – only 7 spots remaining
With 18 signed-up for this long-awaited ride, we only have 7 remaining spaces to fill. Don’t forget our early-bird fundraising minimum amount of $5,675 will increase on August 16th to $6,450 or $1.50 per mile. If 2025 is your year to bike across America, register today!
TransAmerica 2026 is open for registrations
We’ve already had many of you asking about biking across America for MS in 2026. We’ve got you covered! We will be back on the TransAmerica Trail as we rotate between it and the Northern Tier year on year. Be the first to join the team and start dreaming of your summer full of cycling adventures. Register Today.
Pacific Coast Bike Route
The West Coast is calling us back
Following another stupendous summer cycling down the West Coast this year, we will be back to bike for MS on the Pacific Coast Bike Route in 2025. This month-long journey, covering 1,852 miles and running from Seattle, Washington to San Diego, California, has plenty to dream about. Eat up miles of majestic Oregon coast with stunning rock formations arising from the ocean and bike through towering Redwoods.
Pedal down the Pacific Coast Highway and across the golden gate bridge towards sunny Southern California. Savor west coast sunsets and local seafood after rolling into camp. With over 106,070 feet of elevation change, this route is both rugged and rewarding. Hitting the road from June 29 to July 31, 2025. Check out what to expect on the Pacific Coast Bike Route.
Shorter, but no less sweet, MS bike adventures
Okay so we know taking a month or two off isn’t an option for everyone. But don’t fear, we have a whole bunch of trips that are under a week for you to choose from!
The Olympic Peninsula Bike Tour
Kicking off with a scenic ferry ride across the Puget sound, this week-long adventure covers 360 miles and loops around Olympic National Park (home to the only temperate rainforest in the contiguous United States) and past gorgeous rocky beaches. A logistically easy trip, starting and ending in Seattle, the Olympic Peninsula Loop is packed each day with memory-making views and lovely pacific northwest towns. Check out our ultimate guide to cycling the Olympic Peninsula.
MS Bike Ride Florida
Following the successful inaugural winter coastal ride in 2024, we are back for more of the Florida Coast in early March. Beat the winter blues with a 9-day tour down the East coast of Florida from Jacksonville to Key West. This ride spans 590 unforgettable miles and is the perfect break from the monotony of chilly weather – all for a great cause.
A robust network of local bike paths, replete with plenty of wildlife sightings, makes this journey an enjoyable and relaxing experience. For those out there who groan at the sight of a steep climb, you’re in luck! This ride has much gentler grades compared to the mountainous terrain of some of our other routes.
Florida Keys
Don’t fancy biking the full Florida Coast? Our quick 3-day ride from Miami to Key West is an amazing taste of the tropical coast and the perfect long weekend away. Covering 170 miles, with over half on paved bike paths, this route offers scenic and relaxing days on the bike. Join us March 7-9th, 2025.
Have your say on where else we should bike for MS in 2025
While you may recognize many of our core rides we have planned, we want to add in an all NEW adventure! But we can’t make the decision without your help. VOTE on which rides you’d like to see happen out of the following.
Grand Canyon
Tick the Grand Canyon off your bucket list. 11 days to cover 575 miles from Tempe to Cedar City, including two rest days to explore Zion National Park and the Grand Canyon itself! What’s not to love? This would be a late fall trip once temperatures drop a little making biking more enjoyable.
Vermont Gravel Adventure
We all know gravel riding is on the up and we think it’s about time we hit the dirt for MS. How many of you want to ditch the road for quite country gravel and the chance of getting down and dirty? We are looking at a week long A to B adventure in Vermont linking up some of the very best dirt they have to offer. Who’s in?
Cape Cod
A long weekend ride of roughly 150 miles from Boston to Provincetown, the tip of Cape Cod, before jumping on the ferry back to Boston. Take in the best rail trail and bike paths that Cape Cod has to offer over a 3 day ride, taking in the dramatic landscapes that contrasts between bay, pond and ocean. Picture-perfect towns, sea coasts and lighthouses are plentiful along the route.
Alaska
Okay so this one may be a pipe dream, but who wouldn’t want to go and ride in Alaska! It would involve a mix of road and gravel riding and could be anywhere from a few weeks to a full month of travel if we want to cover all the best spots.
Travel options to take the ferry from WA to Haines or fly up. Support may be a little different since we’d likely rent vehicles, but leave the logistics up to us.
VOTE to shape the Bike the US for MS calendar
Don’t feel like riding any of these routes? Leave your suggested routes in the comments below!
Alumni Tailwinds – February 2024 by Neil McCallum and Kelly Wolf
As we get closer to kicking off the 2024 season, we wanted to celebrate our unsung heros of Bike the US for MS – our Route Leaders. Without your unwavering support over the years, we simply wouldn’t have been able to run 16 years of successful bike rides for MS.
We thought we’d ask you, our alumni, to share stories and insights about the joys of route leading. It is truly a life changing experience and another way for you to show your support for Bike the US for MS and the cause.
Do you have a favorite Route Leader you want to thank, particular memories from the road about your Route Leaders or have stories of your own as a Route Leader you want to share? Add you comments below!
Route leading is such a unique experience. I remember riding into Seattle to dip my tires when I finished my Northern Tier ride. I was so overwhelmed with emotion and pride. As a Route Leader, having the opportunity to see your team experience that moment for themselves is so special and rewarding in its own way. Knowing you played a part in helping people complete a life-changing challenge is so rewarding. It kept me coming back!
Kaylyn (center right) celebrating with her team having biked across America.
Here are some positive thoughts I had on being a Route Leader:
The best part of the Route Leader role is you get to share with others the joy and fun you had on your previous adventure.
If you like helping and being kind to others, Route Leader is a great role.
I loved again spending those weeks of living a simple life.
My most positive aspect of the 2012 TransAm ride:
Here was my biggest accomplishment in 2012. You probably know the story. Like in 2010, we had a few tag-along riders….solo self supported cyclists carrying their own gear. I encouraged them to stop at our stops for water and said it was no problem if they stayed with us at campgrounds and churches.
However, there were a couple of our riders who wanted me to kick them off. They weren’t raising any money was the main issue. They were costing Bike the US for MS nothing. Several were visitors to the US, and to me it was just being friendly and nice. I refused to stop helping the self supported riders.
Our tag-along riders ended up donating and even came back as leaders the following year. One of the riders the folks wanted to kick off in 2012 was James Whateley, now Executive Director of Bike the US for MS and Bike the UK for MS. You talk about a fork in the road from a simple act of kindness.
Don Fraser said that the TranAmerica 2011 was totally disorganized. He wanted me to make sure 2012 was more organized. My wife, Christine, and I put two pages of notes together for each day, in advance. Those 60 days in 2012 were flawless as far as the stops, the accommodations, etc. Of course all that went unnoticed because things ran so smoothly, which was the goal!
Things to be aware of:
One of the most difficult aspects of route leading is problems that can arise that you could never have anticipated.
One of the dangers is that returning as a Route Leader will not be the same experience as a rider. This does not mean it’s a bad experience! Simply that the added responsibility of Route Leading will change how you go about the ride.
Dale finishing up his 2010 TransAmerica ride in San Francisco.
When you experience something amazing and extremely worthwhile you want to share it and contribute to it. Riding with Bike the US for MS around America is that experience. After logging over 11,000 miles with BTUSFMS I felt like part of a cycling family and wanted to contribute my time and experience with other riders so I volunteered to become a Route Leader.
That was a great decision. Being a Route Leader gave me a much greater appreciation for the organization and the important duties of the route leaders. I learned so much from the route leaders that had guided me and I enjoyed sharing that knowledge with new riders.
Ted (front center in yellow) is one of our local Route Leaders on the GAP & C&O in 2024.
I was lucky enough to start route leading the Southern Tier right after completing my first ride. The transition from cyclist to Route Leader was an eye awakening experience. I hadn’t realized all the things the Route Leaders were responsible for; arranging accommodations and service projects, choosing locations for rest stops and calculating daily milage.
I immediately realized how amazing my route leader team had worked together to keep my Pacific Coast ride running smoothly. The first major situation I delt with as a Route Leader was realizing that due to a miscalculation in the mileage, one of our days was 120 miles! We had to scramble to adjust our overnight stops and were grateful we started calculating mileage a week in advance.
Route leading has been an amazing experience to not only assist people through the ups and downs of a cross country ride, but also watch how they grow to become skilled and confident cyclists. It has also given me the confidence that I can deal with any problem thrown at me no matter where I am. I never thought I’d have to help cyclists with things like dehydration, a cracked tooth, broken bones, dog encounters, stollen bikes and then throw in a hurricane, a tornado, and a van accident.
I truly feel like I experienced it all! It is such a wonderful opportunity to be a route leader and get to experience the ride from a whole different perspective.
Kelly (center right), one our many amazing Route Leaders, enjoying meeting up with the 2023 GAP & C&O team.
Riding my bicycle across the nation was a life altering event for me. I wish I had had the option to do it in my youth! It has been my pleasure to lead the Pacific coast tour 2 years in a row. Being able to ride with the riders and support them during their journeys. Often times one act of kindness by you means the whole trip to a rider. Being their leader, guide, supporter, confidant, and friend makes each and every trip special. The friends you make on the ride will be with you for life!
Sully (right) has been riding and Route Leading with Bike the US for MS since 2016 and is back for more as a rider on the Florida Coast in March and Olympic Peninsula Bike Tour this summer.
As a ride leader, the memories of all of the wonderful people that we interacted with comes to mind. Working with our “Legacy” hosts, those that have been there year after year for us is the most gratifying. Driving into a new town and being greeted like old friends is very memorable.
It is so great to represent an organization and dedicated riders so respected for their efforts to help those living with MS. A special memory is being able to hear the MS stories and then be able to provide funds to ease the burden. A very special time.
Neil (back row, second from right) will be back Route Leading the inaugural North Lakes ride this summer.
There is a special satisfaction and challenge in helping a group of cyclists get from one coast to the other. Cycling a big ride for charity is meaningful and impactful, and helping those in need with MS is a great thing. Leading a team of cyclists across the country is ten times as rewarding.
You have to keep them on the route and figure out where the group stays and what service projects the group performs. But you also get to meet and interact with more people as route leaders—the hosts you stay with, the families you help, the communities you visit, and the entire cycling team. You get to experience new places, people, and challenges. It’s fun and exciting, and all for a great cause.
You have to have answers for the cycling team, and you need to be able to help them. All the riders couldn’t make it to the end without you, and knowing that you got them across the country is gratifying and empowering. You will have fun, you will be uncomfortable, and there will always be something you don’t expect. That’s what makes being a Route Leader worth doing.
Greenbrair Braag riding the 2018 TransAmerica route.
Interested in becoming a Route Leader in 2024? Submit your interest today!
Welcome to the Olympic Peninsula Loop, a cycling paradise nestled in the heart of Washington State. Renowned for its stunning natural beauty and diverse terrain, this loop offers an unforgettable experience for cyclists of all levels. Here, we delve into the allure of an Olympic Peninsula bike tour and explore the unique journey of biking in the PNW.
Enjoying the views from the Olympic Discover Trail.
The Olympic Peninsula Loop Experience
Imagine a route that weaves through lush rainforests, along rugged coastlines, and over scenic mountain passes. The Olympic Peninsula Loop is this and more, providing a rich range of landscapes for an epic road trip or cycling adventure.
At a Glance: Key Destinations Along the Loop
The Olympic Peninsula Loop is a journey through diverse landscapes, from quaint towns to breathtaking natural wonders. Explore the historical charm of Port Townsend, experience the lavender fields of Sequim, marvel at the rugged beauty of Kalaloch Beach, and immerse yourself in the serene environment of Lake Quinault and Forks to name just a few!
Port Townsend: A town rich in Victorian architecture and arts, Port Townsend is a hub for history and culture. Just outside the town, Fort Townsend Campground offers a wonderful camping experience.
Sequim: Renowned for its vibrant lavender farms and the Dungeness National Wildlife Refuge, Sequim is a picturesque spot on the peninsula.
Lake Quinault: Situated in the Olympic National Forest, this tranquil lake is surrounded by a beautiful rainforest.
Kalaloch Beach: A coastal gem, Kalaloch Beach provides extensive Pacific Ocean vistas and is a perfect spot for observing diverse marine life and spectacular sunsets.
Forks: Famous for its lush forests and as the setting for the Twilight series, Forks is a must-visit for its unique cultural and natural attractions.
The wild coastal views of the Olympic Peninsula route.
Full 7-Day Itinerary for an Olympic Peninsula Bike Tour
Day 1: Seattle to Fort Townsend – Ferry plus 47 miles
Your adventure begins in the vibrant heart of downtown Seattle. Before heading out, seize the chance for a quick visit to the iconic Pike Place Market. It’s a perfect spot to soak up the local atmosphere and grab a coffee.
Next, cycle to the Seattle Ferry Terminal and embark on a scenic ferry journey to Bremerton across the stunning Puget Sound. On the bike, join the line for cars and then take the far left bike lane to purchase your $10 passenger ticket plus $1 bicycle charge. This ride offers breathtaking views and a refreshing start to your journey.
Taking the ferry from Seattle to Bremerton to start week!
Upon arrival in Bremerton, take the opportunity to grab a bite to eat. There are plenty of options right off the ferry. Once ready, hit the road west out of town then north, hugging the edge of Dyes Inlet. As you leave Silverdale, the urban landscape gives way to quiet rural roads, marking the transition into a more peaceful setting.
Approaching Port Gamble, you’ll cross the Hood Canal Floating Bridge. Be prepared for a short, but steep climb immediately after the bridge. Continue weaving your way through the quaint coastal town of Port Ludlow, enjoying the charm and tranquility of this picturesque area.
If you’re following the Adventure Cycling Association (ACA) maps, as you ride through Port Hadlock-Irondale, you’ll encounter a spur. Here, you have the choice to follow the alternate route towards Port Townsend, which turns into a gravel trail, or continue west. We opted for a road option towards Port Townsend to avoid the trail.
Camping near Port Townsend
End your day by setting up camp at the lovely Fort Townsend State Park. Nestled in a serene setting, it’s an ideal place to relax and reflect on the day’s journey. If you’re eager for more exploration, Port Townsend is just a few miles further and offers a fascinating history of Native American roots and Victorian architecture to round off your first day of the Olympic Peninsula loop.
Camping in Fort Townsend for night 1 of the adventure. It’s a short ride from Port Townsend.
Day 2: Fort Townsend to Port Angeles – 54 miles
Begin your morning by retracing the route southwards around Discovery Bay. The day’s ride promises a blend of coastal charm and rural trails.
As you reach Sequim Bay, you’ll join the Olympic Discovery Trail. This trail will be your guide all the way to Port Angeles, taking you through the northeastern tip of the Olympic Peninsula. As you pass through Sequim, take a moment to appreciate the region’s famous lavender farms, an iconic feature of the area known for their stunning purple hues and delightful aromas.
Riding through the lavender farms of Sequim.
Sequim is your best bet for a lunch stop or coffee break with plenty of options in town. There are also grocery stores if you need to stock up on any items for the coming days. No need to stress though, Port Angeles is to come so you won’t be too rural yet.
Continuing along the Olympic Discovery trail, it eventually links up with the water’s edge as you approach Port Angeles. This part of the journey offers splendid ocean views. As you pedal along, the sound of waves and the expansive vista of the ocean accompany you, leading you into the harbor of Port Angeles.
In 2023, our group were fortunate enough to be hosted by a local school, however there are plenty of accommodation options. There are many reasonably priced hotels along 1st St and Front St. If you’re solo touring and looking for camgrounds, they’re more limited, however there are a couple of RV parks in town worth contacting and if not there is a KOA east of town and Elwha R.V. Park & Campground a few miles further on route.
The coastal vistas of the northern coast of the Olympic Peninsula.
Day 3: Port Angeles to Forks – 67 miles
The longest day of the week kicks off by returning to the Olympic Discovery Trail, heading west out of Port Angeles. You’ll soon reach the Elwha River, which marks the end of the trail. Here, a decision awaits: while some riders choose the Olympic Highway 101 towards Lake Crescent, we recommend the safer and still scenic ACA route on Strait of Juan de Fuca Hwy 112.
Enjoying some traffic free cycling on the Olympic Discovery Trail.
Although Lake Crescent feels like a tough one to miss with it’s gorgeous blue waters and mountain backdrop, the stories over the years of cycling around the lake on 101 don’t sound inviting. High levels of fast moving traffic are often reported, causing cyclists to feel intimidated and fearful. Not the type of riding I enjoy personally.
Naturally, when taking on your own adventure, this is a decision for you to make based on your comfort levels. Our teams take the coastal route around Twin which is beautiful and much quieter, making for a more enjoyable day’s riding.
As the route veers inland, follow the meandering Pysht River before turning south towards Beaver Lake. This leg of the journey offers a tranquil ride through the high trees.
Your 3rd day of the Olympic Peninsula loop concludes in Forks, a town famed for its dense forests and being the setting of the “Twilight” series. Forks is a perfect blend of cultural significance and natural splendor, offering a peaceful retreat after a day of exhilarating riding.
There are plenty of campgounds and RV parks in Forks, as well as hotels. Watch for hotel prices in peak months as Forks has an unsurprising level of tourist traffic following the Twilight series.
Day 4: Forks to Kalaloch – 30 miles
Day 4 is a leisurely ride designed to allow plenty of time to immerse yourself in the splendors of the West Coast. Departing from Forks, head south and ride through the verdant Bogachiel State Park, a prelude to the day’s wonders.
Next, you’ll reach the Hoh Rainforest in Olympic National Park, a temperate rainforest teeming with lush greenery and rich biodiversity. Being a short day, take the time to explore the Hoh River, which can be accessed just off the main road at Hoh Ox Bow Campground. There are other access points and enchanting trails to explore and absorb the tranquility. Don’t lose track of time as you have the coast to see next!
Taking in the surroundings of the Hoh Rainforest.
The route then leads you to the dramatic Ruby Beach. It’s worth stopping to walk down the cliffs to the beach, where the Pacific Ocean’s majesty unveils itself. Watch for traffic here as many visitors are turning in and out of the parking lot at Ruby Beach. It’s worth noting there are public restrooms here too.
As you continue along Kalaloch, numerous beaches (Kalaloch Beach 1 through 4) and hiking trails invite exploration. Don’t miss the famous “Tree of Life,” an iconic tree and root system clinging to the edge of the cliffs.
The famous ‘Tree of Life’. One of many natural wonders to see on route.
For camping, Kalaloch offers several picturesque options, including South Beach Campground and Kalaloch Campground. There is also Kalaloch Lodge if you’re looking for a roof over your head. Be mindful to book in advance for whichever option you choose, especially during peak seasons. This part of your adventure is a chance to connect deeply with the coastal beauty of the Olympic Peninsula.
Explore Ruby Beach along the way.
Day 5: Kalaloch to Aberdeen Gardens – 64 miles
Day 5 marks the journey back inland starting from Queets. A pivotal moment of the day is a visit to Lake Quinault. Here, take a worthwhile detour to the lake’s shore to marvel at the World’s Largest Sitka Spruce, a testament to the grandeur of nature. Be warned, it’s downhill to the lake from 101 so expect a steady climb back out.
The route continues along Highway 101, which boasts a good shoulder, making for a comfortable and safe ride. As you pedal, be enveloped by the dense, green forests that line the road, providing a serene backdrop to this leg of your cycling adventure.
Campgrounds are few and far between in this stretch of the Olympic Peninsula loop. You may be best shortening this day and staying in Humptulips or extending to Aberdeen or Montesano for accommodation. Be sure to plan ahead for this day as you don’t want to get stuck with no options.
Enjoying the sunset from camp for the night.
Day 6: Aberdeen Gardens to Shelton – 53 miles
Day 6 sees you continuing south towards Montesano, the southernmost point of the loop. Montesano is a charming spot, ideal for a hearty second breakfast or an early lunch, offering a quaint break in your journey.
As you leave Montesano, you’ll pass through the town of Elma, another opportunity to experience local life along the route.
The journey then takes you back into the tranquility of rural, tree-lined roads, leading towards Shelton. Shelton is a good size town, however a lacking again in campgrounds. Your best bet is Prancing Unicorn a little south of town or looking at host options on the ACA maps.
Be prepared for rain! We are in the PNW after all.
Day 7: Shelton to Seattle – 43 miles plus ferry
On this final day, your route from Shelton to Bremerton mirrors the Pacific Coast Bike Route, but in reverse. The day begins with a challenging climb out of Shelton, a potential early test for the legs.
The road meanders around Mason Lake with a rewarding descent towards Lynch Cove. As you reach Belfair, it’s an opportune moment for food and rest before the final push to Bremerton.
Navigating this stretch requires attention, especially as it intersects the busy WA-3. Be sure to keep your map handy to manage the on and off-ramp transitions smoothly. As you near Puget Sound Naval Shipyard, take in the impressive views of warships and aircraft carriers, a remarkable sight along the route.
Your journey culminates with a ferry ride from Bremerton back to Seattle, marking the completion of an adventurous week cycling around the Olympic Peninsula Loop.
All smiles on the ferry back to Seattle having completed the Olympic Peninsula Loop.
Planning Your Olympic Peninsula Adventure
When is the best time to cycle the Olympic Peninsula Loop?
The best time of year to ride the Olympic Peninsula Loop is typically between late spring and early fall. For example, we tend to take on the route at the end of June. This period usually offers the most stable weather conditions, with July and August being particularly favorable. However, it’s important to be prepared for rain, as this region is known for its lush, rain-fed landscapes.
Travelling to the Olympic Peninsula?
The great thing about the route starting and ending in Seattle is that it make the logistics of traveling much, much easier! You can fly in to SeaTac, jump on the light rail and be in downtown Seattle with ease. There are also train options and many long stay options for parking your vehicle for the week.
If you’re traveling with a bike box or excess luggage that you don’t want to ride with, you can leave it all in Seattle, whether at your hotel or a storage facility, and collect it at the end of the week. Much easier than an A to B route where you have to ship gear to the end!
What gear do I need for the ride?
I won’t go into every item of clothing you could need on a bike adventure like this, but my top piece of advice is make sure what you do bring is waterproof. Even if you’re taking on the route in the peak summer, you can expect rain. Be sure to bring a good waterproof tent to allow you to sleep at night, waterproof cycling jacket and pants if you have them. And also warm cycling gear for those colder, foggy mornings!
Speaking of fog, don’t forget your bike lights! Even if you don’t plan to ride at night, we had waves of fog rolling in off the ocean throughout many days of the ride. Make sure you can be seen by cars and trucks on the route, especially some of the sections on 101 when on the Eastern stretch of the loop.
With the hills on the route, make sure you have a sensible set of gearing on the bike. Trust me, you’ll be glad you put on an extra small front chain ring at times. Some of the climbs are challenging, especially if you’re carrying your gear.
Join Bike the US for MS on their Olympic Peninsula Bike Tour
Is taking on the route solo feeling a little daunting or is planning the overnight accommodations seeming a chore? Why not join us for the Olympic Peninsula Bike Tour in June? We are a low cost, supported bike tour where roughing it is embraced. We’ve created a fun, friendly environment where the key is enjoying the ride the way you want to.
The itinerary you’ve read above is the route we take and has been adapted from our experiences of taking on the loop for the first time last summer. You can expect a small team of 20 or so riders, a set of experienced route leaders helping you achieve your goal of cycling the Olympic Peninsula loop.
Not only will you embark on an unforgettable cycling journey, but you’ll also support a meaningful cause with Bike the US for MS. Register today and be part of this extraordinary adventure!
Amidst the excitement of our ongoing 2023 summer rides, we are already eagerly anticipating the upcoming 2024 adventures. We encourage you to be a part of our journey and Bike for MS in 2024. Every pedal stroke you take will contribute to making a lasting impact in the lives of those living with MS.
Completing a cross-country bike ride is undoubtedly an extraordinary achievement, but the journey doesn’t end at the finish line. As we wrap up the 2023 cycling season, we wanted to discuss some of the common side effects you might experience adjusting to life after a cycling journey.
The struggles can be both physical and emotional. Your body, which has endured countless miles and harsh weather conditions, may still require some recovery time. Your stomach will go through an adjustment period as it takes a while for it to realize it no longer needs food every 2 hours because you are no longer burning thousands of calories each day.
Additionally, the routine and sense of purpose that defined your days on the road suddenly vanish and adjusting to “real life” once you get home can be challenging. There’s a feeling of post-adventure blues, as the exhilaration of the open road is replaced by a sense of restlessness.
Nevertheless, the lessons learned, the memories made, and the indomitable spirit developed during the journey can help you navigate these post-ride struggles. You are left with a profound sense of accomplishment and the knowledge that you can conquer any challenge life presents, one day at a time.
Fortunately, each year there are new routes coming which will give you many new ride options to fit your schedule and give you new places to explore. So, as we remember the good times from the summer, enjoy sleeping in your bed where hopefully nobody is snoring nearby. Appreciate the fact that you always know where you can do your laundry and be grateful you won’t need to pack up your sleeping mat until your next adventure.
The vans and trailers happily hibernating in Virginia till the start of the 2024 season.
Share YOUR Advice
Share your story of adjusting to life after a cycling journey a post trip blues. Have advice on how to get back in the saddle? Please share in the comments below!
Unclip your cleats, dip that tire, and pop some champagne. It’s time to celebrate a successful 2023 season for Bike the US for MS and our MS bike ride fundraisers.
In addition to our classic cross country bike tour, the Northern Tier, and long distance cycle tours up the Atlantic Coast, and down the Pacific Coast, we offered two new week long rides in our 2023 season. The Olympic Peninsula Loop that started and finished in Seattle, and The GAP and C&O trail ride that started in Pittsburgh and finished in Washington, D.C.
With the help of 80+ cyclists putting on a Bike the US for MS jersey, and the hundreds of supporters behind them, our 2023 teams were able to raise over $214,000 to go towards improving the lives of those living with multiple sclerosis!
Check out each team’s adventure with our photo recap, and how to be a part of our 2024 season.
The Atlantic Coast
From the sandy beaches of Florida to the rocky coast of Maine
We kicked off the season in sunny St Augustine, Florida in April. The ride was full of challenges out on the road, but it is great to see that over half the team has signed up to take on another adventure with us in 2024.
The team was able to visit an assisted living center outside of Philadelphia, work together on a service project, and make a virtual donation to the MS Alliance of Virginia.
“Through the many interactions you’ll have along the way, a Bike the US for MS ride has the potential to make a good person even better. The perfect solution to improve one’s body, mind and soul.”
Atlantic Coast 2023 Team Member
Northern Tier
A small group with big heart
While only a core group of 8 team members made the full trip from Bar Harbor, ME to Seattle, WA, a handful of segment cyclists joined them along the way. Sharing the adventure, the group turned a set of strangers into close friends.
The team was able to complete service projects in Cleveland and Bismarck, as well as make a donation to the Fairview MS Achievement and spend a life affirming afternoon with them.
“Each day presented a brand new challenge that was a journey of its own, giving me the chance to appreciate this country’s beauty, be reminded of the goodness of kind people, renew my humility, reinvigorate my spirit, and hopefully grow as a person”
Northern Tier 2023 Team Member
The Olympic Peninsula
A new route with familiar faces
With 40 team members, this was our biggest group in years! It made Seattle feel like an alumni family reunion reminiscent of our 10 year reunion.
In just a week’s riding, the Olympic Peninsula Loop created an adventure-packed journey, from misty mornings and scenic ferry rides to relaxing beachside rest stops. Amidst the towering beauty of PNW forests, our team shared laughter and memories from their many years of riding with Bike the US for MS, dating as far back as 2009. We were fortunate to cap off the trip with a fantastic celebration and check donation to the Swedish MS Center.
“I’m always blown away by the positivity, resilience, and kindness of Bike the US for MS cyclists. BTUSFMS is like adult summer camp: you’ll come away as a stronger, better person with some amazing stories and lifelong friends you can’t wait to see again.”
Olympic Peninsula 2023 Team Member
Pacific Coast Bike Route
Rolling Waves and Redwoods
Embarking on our 2023 Pacific Coast adventure from Seattle to San Diego was a blast! Our crew of 12, mostly Bike the US for MS alumni, tackled the 32-day journey like champs. Two team members faced the challenges of cycling with multiple sclerosis, reminding us that supporting those affected by MS lies at the heart of our mission.
It wasn’t all serious pedaling. We mixed in a ton of fun – beach shenanigans and nights camping under the towering Redwoods. We will be back for more in 2024, this time in July. Be sure to check out the Pacific Coast bike route as you’re next adventure.
“My favorite experience on the Pac Coast ride was waking up and leisurely riding through the Redwood Forest. Watching the sun rays make their way through the trees and listening to the birds sing their morning song.”
Pacific Coast 2023 Team Member
The GAP and C&O
A trip of firsts
This was our first time leading a trip on The GAP (Great Alleghany Pass) and C&O (Chesapeake and Ohio) canal from Pittsburgh to Washington D.C. It was also our first car-free trail ride and first camping optional trip thanks to our six generous hosts! A little mud to round out our Fall season never hurt anyone right?
The decision to repeat the route in 2024 is a testament to the appeal of this adventure! This time, we’re extending it to 6 days of riding, eager to relive the scenic beauty of the Eastern Continental Divide. Keen for the GAP & C&O in 2024? One tip, 28mm tyres or bigger are best.
“Lovely, safe gravel riding. BTUSFMS understands how to support riders of all abilities and experience levels, while creating a supportive and memorable team atmosphere.”
GAP & C&O 2023 Team Member
Ready for your next MS bike ride?
Feeling inspired to ride in 2024?
Our 2023 cycling season may have come to a close, but 2024 is just around the corner! Don’t forget our new adventures including our March MS Bike Ride Florida coastal bike route, featuring a 3 day Florida Keys Bike Trail weekend, as well as our North Lakes adventure from Minneapolis to Chicago in August.
The TransAmerica cross country cycle route is BACK and already has 12 riders signed up! Be sure to join the team or check out our full schedule of rides. See you in 2024!
