Favorite organized rides in your area?

[roguedog]

Wondering.. if you had to recommend one ride in your area/part of the country that best represents your area/part of the country, which one would it be and why?

For context, I could be an acquaintance from out of state that's coming to visit for a few days and happens to ask you what ride should I do? What would you suggest to this person?

(I thought this would be a cool thread for those of us who might actually consider traveling to events just to see the sights and enjoy the scenery .. er your scenery. I haven't done anything but the Cindy so I can't recommend any except the Cindy *was* quite fun, and was quite scenic.)

[maillotpois]

The Holstein:

http://www.wmss.org/holstein/

Less popular than the Marin Century, but a great ride, well supported, good cause and beautiful scenery.

[snapdragen]

I'll second the Holstein. I try not to miss it - no matter what shape I'm in!

[makbike]

I'd have to vote for the Old Kentucky Home Tour http://www.okht.org/. It is held the weekend following Labor Day. You have your choice of a 50, 72, or 100 mile ride on Saturday. This ride starts in Louisville and winds its way through some beautiful countryside as you make your way to historic Bardstown, Kentucky (home of Stephen Foster). Once you arrive in Bardstown you fill find plenty to do on the lawn of St. Catherine's College (free massages, yoga, food, bike fittings, etc). You can book a room at one of the local hotels/motels/B&B, camp out on the high school's baseball field or sleep in the high's school gym. A filling breakfast will be supplied Sunday morning as you prepare for the ride home. The best awaits you at the second SAG stop - simply known as the "Cookie Stop". You will be greated by more cookies than you could ever image eating so pace yourself. The return ride is 55 miles. Both days will challenge you but will also treat you to many, quiet rural roads. The scenery is out of this world (okay maybe I'm a little bias but it is beautiful). So, ladies pack your bikes, mark your calendars and join in the fun - you won't regret it.

[li10up]

Hotter n Hell 100 in Wichita Falls, TX. I haven't ridden this one myself yet but I hope to do so this year. But, according to the number of riders who take to the streets on this one it must be pretty good. I believe they had over 10,000 participants for last years ride.

[Veronica]

10,000 participants sounds like no fun to me.

That's the real reason I like double centuries, so few people - no lines for food or bathrooms, not so much poor behavior...

Stop Signs - mean stop
Riding Two Abreast - should not take up the whole lane
Music Players - Don't belong on an organized ride
Big Groups - Don't stop in the middle of the road to wait for your stragglers

But I'm a grinch.

V.

[Daydrummer]

Hotter n Hell 100 in Wichita Falls, TX. I haven't ridden this one myself yet but I hope to do so this year. But, according to the number of riders who take to the streets on this one it must be pretty good. I believe they had over 10,000 participants for last years ride.

I'm from there, and have done it twice in the past...it is truly exhilarating

[Trek420]

I'll second the Holstein. I try not to miss it - no matter what shape I'm in!

I've never done the Holstein, but it looks good!