The Minnesota Ironman Bicycle Tour is coming back to the St. Croix Valley on Sunday, April 24. A team of river fans organized by the St. Croix River Association is riding together as the ‘River Rats’ and all are invited to join.

The ride features routes of various distances, starting and ending at the Washington County Fairgrounds in Lake Elmo. It is not a competition, but a chance to go for a first rugged ride at the beginning of the cycling season.

When the ride moved to Washington County from Lakeville, MN in 2013, organizer Jon Ridge told me, “The St. Croix River Valley was an easy choice. Picturesque, friendly, challenging, and new.”

Routes are still being confirmed for this year’s event, but will include 15-mile, 35-mile, and 65-mile options. The longest route – the Scandia Loop – hugs the St. Croix River on its return leg down Highway 95. The Scandia-Marine Lions Club will also host a popular rest stop at the Scandia Community Center.

To join the St. Croix River Rats team, just register with the team option and enter the team passcode, “Q4164222.” Riding as part of the team does not mean riders need to stay with the group the whole time.

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