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Anyone interested in joining us? The word "Touring" is probably a more appropriate term for this adventure since the majority of riding will be on paved roads but I am calling it a "bikepacking trip" because it will require some gravel grinding and light trail riding to reach our campsites.

Here is the current itinerary:

DAY 1: Meet in Maplewood and ride 65 miles northwest to Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge
DAY 2: Ride 92 miles east to McKenzie Creek State Wildlife Area (Dinger Lake)
DAY 3: Ride 72 miles south through Taylors Falls back to Maplewood

Night temperatures might be close to freezing so our rigs will be laden with gear and the pace will probably be very slow (11-14mph). There are no rules, if we want to stop in every town to eat food and warm up, then that is what we will do. Seriously, I just want to do a chillaxed adventure and catch up on some much needed sleep. We will be stealth camping and strictly adhering to leave-no-trace.

Reply to the thread or PM me if you are interested. The itinerary may change at any time especially if the forecast is freezing rain. With that said, make sure your clothing, shelter, and insulation can handle freezing temps and rain .

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Oh, and if you want to learn more you can watch the video from our last trip:

mplsbiker

What kind of bike would you recommend for this trip?

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I will be riding a monstercross bike (a 29er with drop bars) and likely 45mm slicks but I might op for 2" semi slicks with big side knobs for harder trail riding if the opportunity arises. The other guy will be riding a fat bike (and I still cant keep up with him!) but I think the best choice for this trip is a gravel or cx bike since most of the riding will be pavement.

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Update, there are now three of us. The route will hit up a lot of bike trails, some gravel, and the Ice Age Trail. GPX map is finished, the only thing left to do is buy food and pack.