Outdoor Fall Fitness Challenges 2023
Unleash your competitive spirit or simply get energized with one of our exciting fall fitness challenges. Set against a stunning backdrop along the shores of Lake Michigan, our scenic events will have you biking or running your way to euphoria as you put your body to the ultimate physical test.
A highly anticipated and invigorating annual event, the Mt. Baldhead Challenge is the Midwest’s Ultimate Multi-Terrain Race™ which happens this year on Saturday, September 9, 2023. Two exciting and demanding courses have been carefully designed to showcase the beautiful and diverse landscapes of the Art Coast of Michigan. Each course will take you through twisted tree-covered trails, forested dunes, beautiful waterfront vistas, the friendly streets of Saugatuck/Douglas, and the summit of Mt. Baldhead. The 10 K challenge is a 6.2 mile course perfect for runners of all levels who want to push themselves, while the Half Marathon challenge provides 13.1 miles of adventure through the trails and dunes.
All proceeds from the Mt. Baldhead Challenge will go directly toward the Boys & Girls Club of Saugatuck/Douglas to support free after school and summer programming for local youth. Participants are encouraged to stay until Sunday to explore all the recreational, cultural, and culinary opportunities that abound in Saugatuck/Douglas. To learn more about the race and to register, visit mtbaldheadchallenge.com.
Bikers of all abilities are invited to join us on Saturday, September 16, 2023, for the Annual Lakeshore Harvest Ride. With the ebbing of summer crowds and seasonally dry, cool weather, there is simply no better time for a Michigan bike ride. Enjoy a countryside bicycle tour where participants can visit art studios, wineries, cider mills, family farms, and fruit orchards along the way, including Khnemu Studio, Dawn Stafford’s Peachbelt Studio, The Vintage Bee Company, Brian J. Newton Fine Wood Turning, Fenn Valley Vineyards & Winery, Waypost Brewing Co., Virtue Cider, and Summerhouse Lavender Farm.
Begin in either Douglas or South Haven on one of four routes, ranging in length from 15 to 62 miles to accommodate riders of varying abilities. The tour includes lunch, snacks, water, and Gatorade and even provides concierge service to transport any purchases for riders to pick up after the event. All the net proceeds from the event will support the Friends of the Blue Star Trail and their work to construct a 20-mile recreational paved trail near the Lake Michigan shore from Saugatuck to South Haven. T-shirts and cycling jerseys will be available for purchase both online and on Ride day. Come for the ride, stay for the weekend to enjoy all that our charming beach towns have to offer. Specific lodging establishments are offering discounts for riders—find out more here. To register and learn more about the event, visit lhride.com.
