Now in its fourth year, the Art of Survival Bike Ride is expanding this year to become a two day ride over Memorial Day weekend. While previous rides have centered started in Utah and finished in Tulelake, California, riders this year will start in Tulelake with many rides ending in Utah. Riders of all ability levels are encouraged to participate by riding the route meeting their needs the best from the 100-mile Century Ride to an eight-mile Family Fun Ride.
Highlights of the 100-mile Century Ride
The 100-mile Century Ride is actually only 92.6 miles long. This trek is scheduled to start in Tulelake heading west along Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway before heading south along the edge of Tule Lake. Riders will then continue to the south before turning east allowing them to ride between Tule Lake National Wildlife Refuge and the Lava Beds National Monuments. Riders will then turn south to follow Rim Road before starting their northward journey on County Road 120. The hardest part of the ride for many cyclists will be near the 50th-mile marker as the route climbs more than 1,900 feet before leveling out again.
Endurance riders can also choose between a 112.8-mile route that gains over 2,504 feet in elevation and a metric century route.
The Art of Survival Bike Ride also offers families the chance to ride together. On Saturday, families can ride along a 16-mile route. This ride will start in Tulelake, California, before reaching the Klamath Basin National Wildlife Refuge Complex before reaching the turnaround point at Tule Lake National Wildlife Refuge. This route is designed to be extremely flat making it easier for all members of the family to complete.
The popular mountain bike ride will also be held on Saturday. This 16-mile ride will take place in the Medicine Lake Highlands.
The new additions to the race will take place on Sunday starting in Dorris, California. These routes are designed along gravel roads meaning even less traffic is likely to be present. Riders can choose between a 72-mile ride, a 54-mile ride and an eight-mile family ride.
Those who are interested in participating can call 541-723-3181 to learn more details. The event will culminate in a celebratory dinner paying tribute to Californians who have lived for many years in the region.