5th Annual Tour de Greenbelt September 21

Whether a weekend recreational rider, seasoned cyclist or one seeking a more adventurous course, Greenbelt’s annual Tour de Greenbelt  – Cycle for Land Conservation offers a course to fit all abilities.  All while riding through the beautiful landscapes of Essex County and benefiting local land conservation.

The Fifth Annual Tour de Greenbelt offers three untimed routes that can be cycled at a rider’s own pace:  a half-century (50 miles) road ride, a shorter route (25 miles) road ride, and the 40-mile Gravel Grinder that is suitable for cyclists with the proper bike, with off-road excursions into protected forests and reservations.

Riders will enjoy cycling past more than 50 of Greenbelt’s protected properties, venturing into state forests, ascending Sagamore Hill in the Donovan Reservation for beautiful views, then returning to Cox Reservation for a BBQ and music under the Big Tent.

The event kicks off at Greenbelt’s Cox Reservation in Essex at 9 am on September 21.  Greenbelt is Essex County’s land trust and proceeds help Greenbelt conserve the region’s farmland, wildlife habitat, scenic landscapes, and places for outdoor recreation.

Riders can register online at https://www.bikereg.com/tourdegreenbelt before September 16. They may also register the morning of the event starting at 7:30am.

For Greenbelt members registration is $155, and the rate is $175 for non-members with fundraising optional.  Riders can also select the $50 fundraiser rate.  Race day registration is $200. The Title Sponsor of Tour de Greenbelt is The Institution for Savings. Major sponsors of the ride include Cell Signaling Technology and New England BioLabs, and the Lead sponsor is Mortgage Network. Road support and the raffle prize are provided by Seacoast Cycle.

Photo courtesy Scott Ryder, @scottrydercycling

Since 1961, Greenbelt has been working with local individuals, families, farmers and communities to protect the farmland, wildlife habitat and scenic vistas of Essex County. Greenbelt has protected more than 17,500 acres of local land.  For more information about Greenbelt programs, visit www.ecga.org or call 978-768-7241.