Folks, the Sunrise Adventure (possibly changing names to Shoreline East) put on by the League of Michigan Bicyclists is the one of the best pure tandem tours I’ve ever ridden. The hills are there, but not so difficult you’re even close to wondering if your granny gear will be enough (we ride a 52/42/30 crankset with an 11-28 cassette on a 42 pound steel Co-Motion tandem and had more than enough). In fact, it’s also a phenomenal entry-level door opener to multi-day tours for those who think they would love to do a multiple-day tour but who don’t know what to expect and would like to break the ice.
First, the tour is only three days so it’s easy enough to take a day or two off to extend the weekend. Second, it’s hotel-based (the cost of your room is not included in the price of registration) so you won’t have to worry about tents and camping. Third, it’s based in downtown Alpena, Michigan, a couple hundred miles from the business center in Detroit. Other than their industrial sites, nothing fouls the air, and it’s noticeably fresh riding around the local roads. Fourth, all three routes are visually stunning with the best being day two, the journey to Presque Isle (Pronounced “Presk Eel”). Part of the destination for the second day is an old 130′ lighthouse you can pay an extra five bucks to climb. The stunning, secluded walk to the rocky beach shouldn’t be missed.
Now, I’ve just scratched the surface on this fantastic tour. The start and finish locations center around National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration of Thunder Bay, a fantastic building right on an inlet to the beautiful Lake Huron. The downtown life in Alpena is vibrant with excellent choices for meals, shopping and entertainment but with a “land that time forgot” vibe. So, if your spouse is interested in joining you, but doesn’t ride, this is a perfect tour in that there’s plenty for a non-riding spouse to do while you’re on the road. Sign up for the glass-bottom boat shipwreck tour that leaves from NOAA Thunder Bay, as well (an after-ride event)
Friends, that I can see, there’s no down-side to this tour, and I’ve ridden a bunch. It quickly rose in the ranks to my favorite tour, especially after day two.
We’ll hope to see you on the road next year. Jess and I will be there again. In fact, we’ll meet you at the registration table.
Fit Recovery 
I plan on riding that one for sure!