_ The 2019 WGWL Excursion - Official Bike Ride:

Wapsi-Great Western Line Trail Committee would like to invite you to a day of biking on twenty six miles of paved surface trail which will allow you to experience a biking environment that includes the following scenic views: Nine plus miles of former rail road bed traveling through the towns of Riceville and McIntire, plus a peek at what was formerly the villages of Acme and Bailey, then miles of winding trail that twice crosses the Wapsipinicon River plus an 800 foot boardwalk that hovers over the flood plain that borders the river. You may include an optional side trail that runs through the park next to Lake Hendricks. You will travel next to Mennonite and Amish farms with a view of pasture paddocks grazed by a variety of dairy breeds, different breeds of draft horses and right past one of the many Mennonite greenhouses that supply buyers of flowers, fruit and vegetable products.

You are free to bike anytime. However, this official ride on August 19th has registration starting at 11:00 A.M. at the WGWL Trailhead at 110 Main Street (Hwy #9) in Riceville. A donation of twenty dollars will help toward upkeep on the Welcome Center and bike trail. There will be a drawing at three o’clock for prizes (bike jersey, bike gloves and a raffle chance at a RAGBRAI XXX framed poster). We will offer, for sale, hot sandwiches along with a salad, baked beans and an assortment of homemade pies with ice cream. Meal serving begins at noon. Water will be provided at both ends of the WGWL’s Southern Branch and Northern Branch and at the Welcome Center in Riceville. Please sign up in advance so we have an idea of how many bikers may be coming. The official ride and hot meal ends at 5 p.m.

Those registering prior to July 27th online will receive a $5 early registration discount, a lighted WGWL Safety Arm/Leg Band (first 30 registrants) and a $20 Gift Card to Wayne's Ski, Cycle and Fitness (first 50 registrants).

See you on the trail!