Below are some questions that usually come up each year.
What are the dates for the bike tour? Saturday, June 14-Friday, June 20, 2025, are the expected dates. Most participants will arrive late afternoon on Saturday, June 14 to pick up their registration packet, set up their tents (or check in to their hotel), and attend a welcome/info meeting. The first day of actual riding is Sunday, June 15.
What is the cost to register? The 6-day bike tour fee is $499 (includes 6 breakfasts and 3 dinners, daily snacks at rest stops, route maps/turn-by-turn directions, SAG vehicles, showers, entertainment, and campsites, to name a few things.) The 2-day sampler options cost $175 per session.
What is NOT covered by registration? You are responsible for costs such as staying at a hotel, lunches, souvenirs, side excursions, and airfare.
Note: T-shirts are an add on at the time you register, so you can decide if you want a shirt or not. We will have a very limited supply of extras for sale at the event. Although we think our t-shirts are cool, not everybody wants/needs another shirt, but some people really would like a keepsake from the event. Now, the choice is yours.
Where will the route go in 2025? (see the 2025 TOUR INFO tab)
The route will be in the Iron Range area of MN next year with overnight stays in:
Grand Rapids (June 14 and 15), Ely (June 16 and 17), and Chisholm (June 18 and 19)
We will be on the Mesabi Trail at least 4 of the 6 days of the 2025 tour.
Is the route a "loop" or a "point to point"? Neither! We are changing up the format and the bike tour will consist of 2-night stays in 3 different cities. Each day will offer a different and unique route. Upon arriving back in camp on the second day in each host city, participants can shower, pack up their gear, and drive to the next host city.
I'm not planning on having a vehicle with me. How will I get from one host city to another? The Mesabi Trail offers a shuttle service for a fee. Also, you may join the Facebook group, "TOMs Chain Gang", and ask other participants if someone would let you carpool with them.
What are the overnight accommodations?
We offer several options for where to sleep at night.
How many miles do people typically ride each day? Our goal is to keep the longer daily mileage at least 50-60 miles, when possible. Each day will offer shorter options (~20-35 miles.) The total mileage (assuming one does the longer mileage options) is usually 250-300 miles for the week. However, since we are coming back to camp each day, riders always have the option of shorter routes or NOT riding at all, should they choose. There is even the option of mountain biking in each of the host cities.
How many riders do you expect? We have 250 spots for the weeklong ride and 50 spots for each of the 2-day sampler options, plus a few dozen staff/main volunteers.
Do you offer any discounts? Yes, for anyone bringing youth (ages 22 and under) use the promo code YOUTH for 40% off their registration. For anyone themselves under 40, use the promo code UNDER40 for 20% off of your individual registration. For those that would like to pass on the breakfasts we will offer each morning in camp, perhaps because you are staying at a hotel that includes breakfast or you simply just don't eat breakfast, use the code NOBREAKFAST for $75 off of your registration. Please do not abuse these offers. THANKS!
Why do I have to pay full price if I'm planning on staying in a hotel, transporting my own luggage, not using the showers/bathrooms in camp, not wanting to eat your meals, passing on the entertainment, etc.? This bike tour is a camping first event, that unlike numerous other bike tours, offers people the option of staying somewhere else overnight. However, we still need to reserve and pay for the amenities as a group of participants, and in most cases, we have no idea if someone is staying in our group campsites and using the various amenities.
I may have a partial scheduling conflict. Can I come late/leave early? Yes, and since you will probably have your vehicle, you will have a lot more flexibility. Registration fees are NOT pro-rated if you need to modify dates, but you can register for one or more of the "Two-Day Sampler" options.
When does registration open? Typically, registration opens at noon Central time on February 1 each year. Most years we have reached our capacity within just a few days of registration. In 2024, registration filled up within the first hour.
Can couples or small groups register together? Yes. This year we have added an option for groups of up to 10 people to register together at the same time. Use the "Group Registration" button on the bottom of the registration page. One person will have to enter in information (birthdate, email address, meal choice, emergency contact name/number, shirt size-if buying a shirt, etc.) for each person in their group AND make one lump payment for the group.
What is the refund/transfer policy? Cancellations done in writing via a time stamped email no later than midnight May 1, 2025 will be refunded the paid registration fee minus $100. Cancellations made after May 1, 2025, will not be refunded at all. We understand that people are signing up months in advance and that things happen, but realize we still have contractual obligations to honor and pay for in advance. Transfers are allowed but only pending OUR approval, as we need to ensure proper waivers are signed, information gathered, etc. to fulfill our legal and liability risk requirements.
We cannot emphasize it enough to please consider purchasing personal "trip insurance."
Do you allow us to bring our own vehicles? This year, because of the new format, we are allowing people to bring their own vehicles, which can include a van or a pull along camper (that fits in 1 additional parking space) We do encourage carpooling, when possible. No sense everyone bringing their vehicles. Non-staff RVs and other large pull behind campers need to find alternative overnight parking options. There are not electrical hookups or grey water disposal in camp.
Do you allow non-riders to join? Non-riders are welcomed and encouraged to volunteer for us in the form of an official SAG vehicle driver or at rest stops. See our Help Wanted tab for more information and to apply. Volunteers not only get a free shirt, meals, and our utmost thanks, but they also get a guaranteed slot for a rider.
Are E-bikes allowed? Yes, pedal assist e-bikes (types 1 and 3) are allowed. We simply ask that you be responsible for maintaining a proper daily charge, and for getting from one destination to the other on your own. Our support vehicles are for mechanical and health issues, NOT because one's bike is out of power. We will have a dedicated e-bike charging station in camp. There is a $25 (for the week) to use our designated heavier duty generator for e-bike charging, payable upon check in.
How experienced/fit of a cyclist do I need to be to participate in the Tour of MN? Many people that participate in bike tours, like TOM, are just recreational cyclists. However, as with many things in life, practice riding ahead of the event will make for a much better experience. Most days on the TOM, mileage is very reasonable and doable. We would suggest you get to a point, before the actual bike tour, where you are riding 3 times a week (for 4-6 weeks) with some longer rides of 20-40 miles at a time. It also helps to stop by your local bike shop to get your bike tuned up and fitted to your body mechanics.
What happens if I get hurt, sick, etc. and can't finish the rest of the tour? That does sometimes happen, but since you will probably have your vehicle with you in camp, you can more easily take care of this if needed.
Will there be a way to plug in CPAP machines overnight? We are planning to once again offer an area where those with CPAP machines can pitch their tent and plug into a power strip we provide. We will run one of our extension cords into either an outdoor outlet or one of our smaller generators through the night. You will need to bring a short (10-25 ft.) extension cord of your own to plug into our power strip from your tent. This is just our second year trying this, so please be patient and understanding as we continue to explore this new endeavor.
Are bike helmets expected/required? Yes! Our insurance company requires it, and for good reason. Besides being a good safety habit, not wearing a helmet voids our insurance policy. Hence, any time someone is over the top tube of their bike, their helmet is expected to be worn, even for short distances, like testing out your bike. If any of our staff notice someone in violation, they will simply give you (1) verbal reminder. If it occurs again, that participant will be dismissed from the remainder of the tour and without any refund.
What are the dates for the bike tour? Saturday, June 14-Friday, June 20, 2025, are the expected dates. Most participants will arrive late afternoon on Saturday, June 14 to pick up their registration packet, set up their tents (or check in to their hotel), and attend a welcome/info meeting. The first day of actual riding is Sunday, June 15.
What is the cost to register? The 6-day bike tour fee is $499 (includes 6 breakfasts and 3 dinners, daily snacks at rest stops, route maps/turn-by-turn directions, SAG vehicles, showers, entertainment, and campsites, to name a few things.) The 2-day sampler options cost $175 per session.
What is NOT covered by registration? You are responsible for costs such as staying at a hotel, lunches, souvenirs, side excursions, and airfare.
Note: T-shirts are an add on at the time you register, so you can decide if you want a shirt or not. We will have a very limited supply of extras for sale at the event. Although we think our t-shirts are cool, not everybody wants/needs another shirt, but some people really would like a keepsake from the event. Now, the choice is yours.
Where will the route go in 2025? (see the 2025 TOUR INFO tab)
The route will be in the Iron Range area of MN next year with overnight stays in:
Grand Rapids (June 14 and 15), Ely (June 16 and 17), and Chisholm (June 18 and 19)
We will be on the Mesabi Trail at least 4 of the 6 days of the 2025 tour.
Is the route a "loop" or a "point to point"? Neither! We are changing up the format and the bike tour will consist of 2-night stays in 3 different cities. Each day will offer a different and unique route. Upon arriving back in camp on the second day in each host city, participants can shower, pack up their gear, and drive to the next host city.
I'm not planning on having a vehicle with me. How will I get from one host city to another? The Mesabi Trail offers a shuttle service for a fee. Also, you may join the Facebook group, "TOMs Chain Gang", and ask other participants if someone would let you carpool with them.
What are the overnight accommodations?
We offer several options for where to sleep at night.
- pitch your own tent in our group campsite (no charge)
- use our tent porter service ($300 per tent, up to 2 people per tent)
- reserve a room with our room block in each host city (limited number remain): click here for HOTEL LIST
- stay at lodging of your choice, such as a different hotel, a B&B, a local rental, a friend's house, etc.
- sleep in your vehicle (e.g. car, van, small trailer/camper, etc.) *
How many miles do people typically ride each day? Our goal is to keep the longer daily mileage at least 50-60 miles, when possible. Each day will offer shorter options (~20-35 miles.) The total mileage (assuming one does the longer mileage options) is usually 250-300 miles for the week. However, since we are coming back to camp each day, riders always have the option of shorter routes or NOT riding at all, should they choose. There is even the option of mountain biking in each of the host cities.
How many riders do you expect? We have 250 spots for the weeklong ride and 50 spots for each of the 2-day sampler options, plus a few dozen staff/main volunteers.
Do you offer any discounts? Yes, for anyone bringing youth (ages 22 and under) use the promo code YOUTH for 40% off their registration. For anyone themselves under 40, use the promo code UNDER40 for 20% off of your individual registration. For those that would like to pass on the breakfasts we will offer each morning in camp, perhaps because you are staying at a hotel that includes breakfast or you simply just don't eat breakfast, use the code NOBREAKFAST for $75 off of your registration. Please do not abuse these offers. THANKS!
Why do I have to pay full price if I'm planning on staying in a hotel, transporting my own luggage, not using the showers/bathrooms in camp, not wanting to eat your meals, passing on the entertainment, etc.? This bike tour is a camping first event, that unlike numerous other bike tours, offers people the option of staying somewhere else overnight. However, we still need to reserve and pay for the amenities as a group of participants, and in most cases, we have no idea if someone is staying in our group campsites and using the various amenities.
I may have a partial scheduling conflict. Can I come late/leave early? Yes, and since you will probably have your vehicle, you will have a lot more flexibility. Registration fees are NOT pro-rated if you need to modify dates, but you can register for one or more of the "Two-Day Sampler" options.
When does registration open? Typically, registration opens at noon Central time on February 1 each year. Most years we have reached our capacity within just a few days of registration. In 2024, registration filled up within the first hour.
Can couples or small groups register together? Yes. This year we have added an option for groups of up to 10 people to register together at the same time. Use the "Group Registration" button on the bottom of the registration page. One person will have to enter in information (birthdate, email address, meal choice, emergency contact name/number, shirt size-if buying a shirt, etc.) for each person in their group AND make one lump payment for the group.
What is the refund/transfer policy? Cancellations done in writing via a time stamped email no later than midnight May 1, 2025 will be refunded the paid registration fee minus $100. Cancellations made after May 1, 2025, will not be refunded at all. We understand that people are signing up months in advance and that things happen, but realize we still have contractual obligations to honor and pay for in advance. Transfers are allowed but only pending OUR approval, as we need to ensure proper waivers are signed, information gathered, etc. to fulfill our legal and liability risk requirements.
We cannot emphasize it enough to please consider purchasing personal "trip insurance."
Do you allow us to bring our own vehicles? This year, because of the new format, we are allowing people to bring their own vehicles, which can include a van or a pull along camper (that fits in 1 additional parking space) We do encourage carpooling, when possible. No sense everyone bringing their vehicles. Non-staff RVs and other large pull behind campers need to find alternative overnight parking options. There are not electrical hookups or grey water disposal in camp.
Do you allow non-riders to join? Non-riders are welcomed and encouraged to volunteer for us in the form of an official SAG vehicle driver or at rest stops. See our Help Wanted tab for more information and to apply. Volunteers not only get a free shirt, meals, and our utmost thanks, but they also get a guaranteed slot for a rider.
Are E-bikes allowed? Yes, pedal assist e-bikes (types 1 and 3) are allowed. We simply ask that you be responsible for maintaining a proper daily charge, and for getting from one destination to the other on your own. Our support vehicles are for mechanical and health issues, NOT because one's bike is out of power. We will have a dedicated e-bike charging station in camp. There is a $25 (for the week) to use our designated heavier duty generator for e-bike charging, payable upon check in.
How experienced/fit of a cyclist do I need to be to participate in the Tour of MN? Many people that participate in bike tours, like TOM, are just recreational cyclists. However, as with many things in life, practice riding ahead of the event will make for a much better experience. Most days on the TOM, mileage is very reasonable and doable. We would suggest you get to a point, before the actual bike tour, where you are riding 3 times a week (for 4-6 weeks) with some longer rides of 20-40 miles at a time. It also helps to stop by your local bike shop to get your bike tuned up and fitted to your body mechanics.
What happens if I get hurt, sick, etc. and can't finish the rest of the tour? That does sometimes happen, but since you will probably have your vehicle with you in camp, you can more easily take care of this if needed.
Will there be a way to plug in CPAP machines overnight? We are planning to once again offer an area where those with CPAP machines can pitch their tent and plug into a power strip we provide. We will run one of our extension cords into either an outdoor outlet or one of our smaller generators through the night. You will need to bring a short (10-25 ft.) extension cord of your own to plug into our power strip from your tent. This is just our second year trying this, so please be patient and understanding as we continue to explore this new endeavor.
Are bike helmets expected/required? Yes! Our insurance company requires it, and for good reason. Besides being a good safety habit, not wearing a helmet voids our insurance policy. Hence, any time someone is over the top tube of their bike, their helmet is expected to be worn, even for short distances, like testing out your bike. If any of our staff notice someone in violation, they will simply give you (1) verbal reminder. If it occurs again, that participant will be dismissed from the remainder of the tour and without any refund.
HoursM-F: 5 - 9pm
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address4120 St. Marks Dr, Minnetonka, MN 55305
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