I don't normally "peddle" rides, but if you're in the midwest and you're looking for an early season challenge, mark your calendar for the Quadrupedal, Sunday 4-May in the Dodgeville area (SW Wisconsin). http://www.ichs.net/quadrupedal.html

Last year we only did the 55-miler as it was a little cold and rainy, but with almost 4500' of climb, it was still a solid workout. The organizer is the same as the Dairyland Dare so you're pretty much guaranteed a well-run ride along with his usual plotting of a scenic, hilly route. Since this isn't a timed ride, the...uh...err....testosterone doesn't seem to fly as much as at the Dairyland Dare or its eastern cousin ride, the Horrible Hilly Hundreds. Rest stops are more low key--animal crackers and homemade baked goods along with happy volunteers instead of energy gels.

Anyway, it isn't a ride that gets a lot of publicity, but it is a fun, challenging ride in, what I believe, is the prettiest area of the state. And proceeds go to the local no-kill animal shelter. What's not to like?