GBC 2011 September 30th

The Journey home.....

This is ride will be so enjoyable, but as we have seen in the past it is not just about the route (It is almost secondary)! It is about the fellowship and friendships that are built in that week of riding together. We sure hope you join us on the 2011 Great Bike Challenge. We would love to have you!!!

FYI: We will shuttle you back to Spokane. Just a thought to remember we are 30-40 minutes away to plan accordingly!

Contact Adriane Stauffer with any questions at 417-266-3120 or bike@kidsacrossamerica.org

GBC 2011 September 29th DAY 5

Hayden Lake Loop (Mileage TBA)

We will take a scenic look at Hayden Lake. It will be one of the more challenging days because you are going through the rolling hills, but the Great Bike Challenge is nothing if there isn't a least one challenging day.....RIGHT!!!! It is a stunning ride and you will enjoy it....It is a nice way to end our journey!!!

We will end the day at a resturant on the lake Coeur d' Alene!!!!

Just a quick little side video I captured while we were in Coeur d' Alene!!

GBC 2011 September 27th DAY 3

Spokane to Coeur d'Alene, Idaho (Mileage TBA)

We will take the Spokane/Idaho Centennial Trail all the way Coeur d'Alene, ID




The North Idaho Centennial Trail is a NON-MOTORIZED, multi-use recreational trail, which meanders for 24 miles from the state line at the Idaho/Washington border to beautiful Higgens Point, six miles east of Coeur d'Alene. This scenic trail runs along the Spokane River to Post Falls where it runs through neighborhoods and eventually to wooded areas leading to Coeur d'Alene. At the west end of Coeur d'Alene the trail again meets the Spokane River and follows it to the pristine Lake Coeur d'Alene.


Dam at Post Falls



The trail then follows the lake shoreline to Higgens Point, an Idaho State Park, which draws throngs of spectators in the late fall and early winter to view the annual visit of Bald Eagles as they migrate south.



Our Accommodations for the rest of our ride....Pretty Sweet!!!!

GBC 2011 September 28th DAY 4

Trail of the Coeur d' Alenes (around 50 miles)

Today we will take a quick 30 minute shuttle ride to Plummer, ID to start at the beginning Trailhead of the Trail of the Coeur d'Alene.

Here is a video with the first 12 miles of the trail from Plummer to Harrison

The Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes is a gem. There are trailheads
along its lenth, each with display maps showing the highlights.
It passes through the historic town of Wallace, the simple
mobile home town of Osburn, the former mining towns of
Smelterville and Kellogg, and through the lakeside town of
Harrison. Some parts of the trail are busy and others are very
quiet. Mostly alone on the trail, there were times when we
shared it with cyclists, dog walkers, and inline skaters, but there
was never any congestion. (info found on http://www.roadslesstraveled.us/NIdaho.html)

We will end at the Old Mission Trailhead and have lunch!

The Hiawatha Trail...15 Miles one way

Depending how the day goes we might have an option to do the Hiawatha Trail this day also. Found on the Idaho/Montana border it is a 15 miles moutain bike trail. It has mixed reviews because of it not being challenging at all, but I heard the views are Stunning.

Here is just a little about the Trail. (Found on http://www.skilookout.com/hiawatha/)

This portion of the Olympian Hiawatha route has been called one of the most breathtaking scenic stretches of railroad in the country.

Winding through 10 tunnels and 7 high trestles, this 15-mile route crosses the rugged Bitterroot Mountains between Idaho and Montana. The Route of the Hiawatha is best known for the long, dark St. Paul Pass, or Taft Tunnel, which burrows for 1.66 miles under the Idaho/Montana state line.

With an incredible history beginning in 1906 of construction, hardships and calamities, unprecedented electrification, and of carrying passengers and freight from the Northwest to the Midwest, generations of railroaders kept the Milwaukee Road running until it finally went bankrupt in 1977. The last train west of Butte, Montana passed through in 1980. After that the line was abandoned.

With government funding and private donations, the rails were removed, and the construction of this spectacular wilderness bicycle and hiking trail was undertaken in 1997. The Idaho portion of the trail first opened for public use on May 29, 1998. The St. Paul Pass, or Taft Tunnel, was completed in May of 2001, and is now open for bike riding.

** We were going to check it out on our scouting trip, but when we went there it was covered with snow!!!!

Tonight we will walk to Crickets and eat....It is a local hotspot!

GBC 2011 September 26th DAY 2

Spokane Loop #2 (Around 73 miles)

We will take you through the hills and Valleys of the outskirts of Spokane. Also known as the Cheney/Williams Lake Loop!

Below is the course we are doing. They use it as a road race!!!





Tonight we will it at Clinkerdaggers which is one of those restaurants that should be on your must-do list if you are visiting Spokane. I think every city has one of those kind of places and Clinks ranks at the top of the list as one of Spokane's best restaurant experiences.

Located in the historic Flour Mill building that was built in 1895. The mill was one of many built along the river before the turn of the century. Spokane's history revolves around the power of the falls and the Flour Mill stands as a reminder of that legacy.

View from the back of the restaurant

GBC 2011 September 25th DAY 1

Spokane Loop #1 (Mileage TBA)

We will make our way downtown to get to River Side State Park which we will link up with the Centennial Trail!

Scenery on the western segment of the Spokane Centennial Trail is nothing less than spectacular; towering pine and fir trees, birds-eye views of the river (including the Bowl and Pitcher area), broad vistas and panoramic views of the Spokane River.
While the other segments of the Trail follow a relatively flat course, the western segment contains a number of challenging climbs and descents through the beautiful forests of Riverside State Park. Most of the climbs are relatively short in duration, but come prepared for a higher-level aerobic workout.
Popular attractions include; the Military Cemetery (located just off Government Way at the 28-mile mark), the Bowl and Pitcher overlook (30-mile mark), day-camping area and restrooms (34-mile mark), Riverside State Park Headquarters (36 mile mark) and Sontag Park (37-mile mark). Foot travelers also may access the Trail via the footbridge from the campground at Bowl & Pitcher, across the river from the Trail. Best of all... you'll be hard-pressed not to spot at least several forms of natural wildlife (bald eagles, hawks, deer, coyotes, and many more)!
NOTE OF CAUTION: In intermittent sections, Trail users must share the roadway with motorized vehicles. However, motorized traffic is extremely low in this rural area, and is limited to mostly local residents. Riverside Park Drive is blocked off at several strategic locations, preventing its use as a thoroughfare for motor vehicles

Our fun Lunch Stop

The night activities will be BBQ and Campfire at the Riverfront Park. You will walk across the Spokane River on a bridge in the back of the hotel.

GBC WASHINGTON/IDAHO Sept 24,2011

Welcome to Spokane, WA!!!!!!

Near nature. Near perfect. It's more than a slogan in Spokane; it's reality. With all the big city amenities you could wish for, fabulous natural beauty, four seasons and 260 sunny days each year, Spokane is a special place.

Spokane is the perfect base for all sorts of activities, with an amazing number of outdoor recreational opportunities just a short drive away. You'll find mountains for skiing, hiking and biking, lakes and rivers for swimming, boating and fishing, and golf courses with challenging holes and unmatched scenery.

We will be staying at the Red Lion hotel in at the park for the duration of our time in Spokane!

GBC MAINE SEPT 30

Day Five......Ellsworth to Bar Harbor, ME 40 miles (last Day of riding)





Here we will enjoy the views of Bar Harbor and the Acadia National Park



Bar Harbor, Mount Desert Island’s largest community, was New England’s premier summer resort in the 19th century. It was home to the largest hotel in North America and to Millionaires’ Row, a line of spectacular summer estates built for America’s most powerful families—Rockefeller, Ford, Vanderbilt, Carnegie, Astor and Morgan, to name a few. Bar Harbor continues to draw visitors by the thousands, but the area’s brilliant fall foliage has stretched the season well into October. Some of the mansions now operate as inns. Visitors can arrive from Nova Scotia in two and a half hours on the high-speed ferry, and U.S. Airways/Colgan Air services the local airport.

Bar Harbor is adjacent to Acadia National Park, home to 1,532-foot Mount Cadillac. Its summit is the first spot in the United States where the sunrise can be seen. Acadia’s stunning mountains, lakes, and sea cliffs can be viewed from a number of vantage points—an auto loop, carriage roads closed to car traffic, and 125 miles of trails exclusively for hiking. The Bar Harbor area possesses a great selection of family activities, including a family nature camp, an oceanarium, a zoo, and a lumberjack show. The recently expanded Abbe Museum showcases the Wabenaki Indians, some of Maine’s earliest residents. Visitors can also indulge in rock climbing, sailing, paddling, brewery tours, boat excursions, and golf. For shoppers, Bar Harbor features a number of top-notch boutiques, many of which showcase the works of Maine artists and sculptors .

This will be our lastnight of the GBC and it will for sure be memorable!

GBC MAINE SEPT 29

Day Four...... Camden to Ellsworth, ME 60 miles

On the way to Ellsworth you will see the Penobscot bridge

The Penobscot Narrows Bridge is a cable-stayed bridge over the Penobscot River near Bucksport, Maine. It replaces the href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Waldo-Hancock_Bridge">Waldo-Hancock Bridge, built in 1931. The new bridge is 2,120 feet (646 m) long. It is one of two bridges in the U.S. constructed recently to utilize a cradle system

The Penobscot Bridge site also is home to the Penobscot Narrows Observatory, the first bridge observation tower in the United States and the tallest public bridge observatory in the world. The tower reaches 420 feet (128 m) into the air and allows visitors to view the bridge, the nearby Fort Knox State Historic Site and the Penobscot River and Bay.

Ellsworth, an even mix of both historic pride and modern urban convenience, is a prime launching pad from which to experience Maine's deep history, natural coastal beauty, and sportsman's heaven. Boasting numerous architectural treasures such as the First Congregational Church and mansions built in the early 19th century, the city of Ellsworth can also keep visitors happy within its borders.

GBC MAINE SEPT 28

Day Three.......Rockland to Camden, ME 30 miles

Today will be a shorter day so you can enjoy the beautiful town of Camden, ME!


Just south of Camden is Rockport. Though smaller in size than Camden, it is no less picturesque. Rockport has a thriving arts community, and concerts are performed at its 19th century opera house. The Center for Maine Contemporary Art is right around the corner. Camden and Rockport are home to some of the Maine windjammer fleet, many of which are National Historic Landmarks. The area is also the place to go for “hands-on” vacationers. In Camden/Rockport, special learning programs provide instruction in sailing, kayaking, and furniture making. Rockport’s nationally recognized Maine Photographic Workshop offers courses in film, video, photography, and digital media from one week to up to

Camden is known as the jewel of the Maine Coast. Sailors and shoppers will both have their fill. This picturesque town offers the best of both worlds. Look to the east and you’ll see the blue waters of the Penobscot Bay. Where the Schooner and windjammers depart from Camden's postcard perfect harbor, and pleasure boaters access Penobscot Bay from this port. To the west, the peaks of the Camden Hills reach up to meet the sky. An easy hike up Mount Battie proffers amazing views of the bay and mountains as well as the town of Camden below. Just north of downtown, stately mansions on wooded lots line both sides of the street. Many of these homes, once occupied by sea captains, are now bed and breakfasts. There is no shortage of good restaurants and specialty shops in Camden, but the town lacks the resort feeling of other seasonal towns because there is a large year-round population.

Our Accommodations

Whitehall Inn

GBC MAINE SEPT 27

Day 2 of riding..... Freeport to Thomaston/Rockland 94 miles

We will go through the towns of Bath and Brunswick, ME

Long known as the ``City of Ships," Bath, Maine finds its soul and identity in shipbuilding. From its architecture and cultural offerings to its urban downtown, Bath's shipbuilding roots define its character. Brunswick is a historic community that is home to Bowdoin College and the Brunswick Naval Air Station; that also thrived as a textile mill town in the 1800s. Miles of coastline, historical charm, and a vibrant arts scene (with plenty of up-to-date amenities) distinguish Bath and Bath is located on a beautiful stretch of the Kennebec River and Brunswick enjoys a location on both the Androscoggin River and Casco Bay. The rivers, bays, and ocean offer fishing, canoeing, touring, and kayaking.

The downtowns offer more than a glimpse of our fascinating history at the Maine Maritime Museum, Joshua L. Chamberlain Civil War Museum, Peary-MacMillan Arctic Museum, and Skolfield Whittier House. Walk past lampposts adorned with overflowing baskets of flowers and delight in antique shops and specialty boutiques. Explore art galleries on Second Friday (Brunswick) and Third Friday (Bath) Artwalks sponsored by Five Rivers Arts Alliance. And don't forget food--from steamed hot dogs to steamed lobsters and everything in between, our caf~s, bistros, authentic ethnic and seafood restaurants offer dining experiences to please all palettes. Find entertainment at the Chocolate Church Arts Center and the Theater Project. Take in a professional Broadway musical by the Maine State Music Theatre, world class concerts at the Bowdoin International Music Festival, or an outdoor concert in downtown parks on a summer evening.

Explore tree-lined neighborhoods graced by examples of many eras of American architecture. Discover the freshest local produce at weekly Farmer's Markets. Hop aboard the Maine Eastern Railroad in either downtown and enjoy views of Maine that can't be seen from a car. Just outside the downtowns play a round or two of golf, or hike local trails and cycle on bike paths.

Come experience village flavor and city flair!

Brunswick, a historic and picturesque town of 20,000 residents, is the gateway to Maine's beautiful midcoast region. Nature lovers are drawn by the proximity to ocean, islands and mountains. In town, offsetting the physical splendor, are a distinguished college, two highly regarded hospitals, marvelous restaurants, distinctive retail establishments, and prolific cultural offerings at an array of visual and performing arts venues.

We will see Pemquid Lighthouse and Pemiquid Beach

GBC MAINE SEPT 26

First Day of riding...... Old Orchard Beach to Freeport, ME 45 miles

Our first day of riding is going to be beautiful! Our route will be shorter so you can get ready for the next couple days ahead :)!!!!

Below are just a few of the many things you will see this day!!!

Portland, located on Casco Bay, is Maine’s largest city as well as its creative hub. Many craftspeople, artists, and other creative types have chosen to live and work here, positioning the city as one of the most fashionable locations in the Northeast. Portland’s Old Port, constructed in the 1800s, has been converted into a first-class shopping and dining district. However, the original Federal-style architecture of the area has been impeccably maintained.

In addition to its commercial shipping traffic, the city’s “new” port is also the departure point for the ferry to Nova Scotia and commuter boats to the Casco Bay’s Calendar Islands. There are lots of things to do in culturally-diverse Portland, from hot air ballooning to deep-sea fishing. For food lovers, Portland has an abundance of restaurants and cafes. In addition to performances by local theater and dance companies, the city has its own symphony orchestra and opera company. It is also a great spot to catch top rock and jazz acts. There are several interesting museums to check out, including a first-class art museum, children’s museum and a museum dedicated to African tribal art. Scenic drives and walks can be found in and around the city. Cliff Walk, in nearby Prouts Neck, leads to the site of famed artist Winslow Homer’s former studio. To get in on the local sports action, see if the Portland Pirates (minor league ice hockey) or the Portland Sea Dogs (minor league baseball) have a home game scheduled.

Keep your camera ready, because a few miles north is the oldest, and possibly the most famous of all Maine lighthouses, the Portland Headlight. America's first lighthouse, it was commissioned by America's first President, George Washington and was built in 1787 to guard the state's busiest harbor.

Continuing up the fabled Maine Coast you will come upon the wonderful seaside town of Freeport - Home of L.L. Bean, and 120 upscale factory outlets. Non-shoppers can explore the delights of the nearby Maine Maritime Museum, Wolf's Neck Park and Farm, and the Sequin Island Lighthouse, with a foghorn so loud, it's knocked seagulls out of the air!

Our Accomodations:

GBC MAINE SEPT 25

WELCOME to beautiful Maine home of Suburu, Volvo, L.L. Bean and this years Great Bike Challenge. It is hard to believe this ride has been going on for 13 years. We are excited for this ride and know you are going to LOVE it. Sure hope you can join us!

We will start in the sweet town called Old Ochard beach. I consider it a smaller version of Santa Monica, CA. Old Orchard Beach has been welcoming tourists and families to its beautiful 7-mile stretch of perfect sand beach for over 170 years. Families love all of the family-friendly activities and amusement parks including the veritable beachfront Palace Playland Park. There is nightly entertainment including dancing at the end of the Pier, plus weekly fireworks and concerts, world-class golf, fabulous fishing, whale watch tours, bird-watching and so much more. Old Orchard’s Pier is the center of the recreational offerings. Extending nearly 500 feet over the Atlantic Ocean, the Pier features shops, eateries, games of skill, and nightlife. Here are just a few pictures!

Make a Smilebox slideshow

2008 Great Bike Challenge

This GBC is going to be one amazing ride. We have heard that it is every cyclists dream to ride through Vermont. Well wait no longer...

Kids Across America's Great Bike Challenge VERMONT!!

Come join us for 290 miles of fun September 6th-12th!!!!!

September 6th, 2008

This opening day will be one for the record books. Cyclists will fly into Burlington, VT by around 4 pm at the lastest please!!! A KAA staff member will pick you up at the airport and take you to our starting location. Claybrook resort in Warren, VT will beginning our wonderful adventure.

What an AMAZING location from fun ski lift rides and to the relaxing heated pool. You are going to love it!


Check out Claybrook resort Resort http://www.lincolnpeakvillage.com/claybrook/

September 7th, 2008

61.7 Miles
Sugarbush to Woodstock, VT


This will be our first day of riding. We will be riding to Woodstock, VT also known as the "The Prettiest Small Town in America" described by Ladies Home Journal magazine. We will stay at the Woodstock Inn and Resort for the next few days. We will start our day going through some backroads and under a coverbridge in Warren, VT then we will head down to Woodstock which you will just love. What an great kick of riding day!!


Check out the Woodstock Inn at http://www.woodstockinn.com/

*More about the route to come!

September 8th, 2008

44.6 Miles
Woodstock Loop


No need to back your bags. We will do a loop back to the Woodstock Inn. This route will be on of rolling hills and scenery galore. We will make a stop at the Billings Farm and Museum and fun place to take a load off. This night will be another one enjoying the beautiful small town feel of Woodstock.

September 9th, 2008

82.8 Miles
Woodstock to Sugarbush





We will make the treck back up to Warren, VT using a different route. This is the longest and hardest day we have. We will be going over Bethal moutain as we head towards Rochester. We will be going through a small town named Hancock. Be sure to stop in the Old Hancock Hotel and meet Diane the ower and cook she makes a great milkshake. Then we go East Middlebury and Bristol and go on Lincoln Gap rd which you will see a beautiful waterfall. There are many more fun adventures as well. We will be staying at the Claybrook Resort again and see the amazing views of Sugarbush and have some relaxation time after this hard day!





* More on the route to come.

September 10th, 2008

52.1 Miles
Sugarbush to Stowe VT






Time to ride up to Stowe, VT. On the way to there we will stop for a cool refreshing treat at the Ben & Jerry's factory. We may even learn how ice cream is made! Then on to our resort the Trapp Family Lodge and yes this Lodge was started by the von Trapp family of the Sound of Music. We saved the best for last!!!




Check out the Lodge at http://www.trappfamily.com/

September 11th, 2008

49.0 Miles
Stowe Loop

This will be our last day of riding. We will do a loop back to Trapp Family Lodge. On our route we see the tallest mountain peak in Vermont Mount Mansfield, at 4393 feet above sea level. We will see the cute towns of Stowe and Hydes Park...Don't forget to see The Bee'sKnee's a fun coffee and eatery. This night will be our farewell night. It will be one you will never forget.

September 12th, 2008

Now you have probably had the best week of your life and it is time to fly back to the "Real-World." As the von Trapps would sing "So long, farewell, auf Wiedersehen, good night. I hate to go and leave this pretty sight".


Thanks for joining us and we will see you next year!!!

Opening Festivities

September 29th

This night will be full of surprises so come ready for anything. As you drive/ fly into the beautiful countryside of Tennessee your destination will be the quaint town of Townsend, TN (or fly into McGhee Tyson Airport where we will pick you up) just thirty minutes south of Knoxville. Where you will be amazed by the beautiful accomodations of Dancing Bear Lodge. The owner of this beautiful resort is an advid cyclist too. They even have there own Jersey to purchase. So get ready for an unforgettable opening night of the 10th Annual Great Bike Challenge.

Check out Dancing Bear Resort http://www.dancingbearlodge.com/

Oct 5th Day Six (Fontana Village to Townsend)

Heading out from Fontana Village, the sixth and final day of the Great Bike Challenge will be spent riding along the spectacular Foothills Parkway. After only a few miles you will be crossing the state line heading back into Tennessee. Soon after on your left will be an incredible view of the Fontana Lake dam. Continue on in the tradition of placing your signature on the rock ledge looking out over the lake. After lunch along the way and a continuation of the beautiful landscapes it won’t be long before you reach your final destination at the Rustic Dogwood Cabins in Townsend, Tennessee! The lodge offers a true retreat feel as well as first class accommodations. We hope you spend this evening renewing your body and mind before its time to travel back to your respective homes. We can’t wait for you to come and be a part of this once in a lifetime event! See you soon in the Smoky Mountains!

Oct. 4th Day Five (Fontana Village)

We hope you enjoy your second day at Fontana Village where the resort is set amidst the pristine beauty of the Nantahala Forest in western North Carolina. If you are still seeking adventure don’t worry, on day five you will be able to choose from a large list of recreation activities including 50 mile biking loop, horseback riding, mountain biking, hiking, tennis, miniature golf, jet skiing, kayaking and more. On the other hand, if you choose to spend this day as one of rest and relaxation there are spa services available as well. The resort also has two pools where you may choose to lay out and unwind under the sun. When it comes time to eat, you may select from the two restaurants within the resort. Whether the evening calls for a casual bite with music at the Wildwood Grill or alfresco style dining in the beautiful Mountview Bistro, you will always find your meal paired with gorgeous mountain vistas right from your table.

Oct 3rd Day Four (Cherokee to Fontana Village)

Day four begins by winding alongside the Little Tennessee River Basin into the mountain town of Bryson City. After a short ride through old downtown you will be back, cycling through the countryside. Just down the road, the mountains open up as you cross over Fontana Lake to expose a breathtaking view. Although today will be one of the shortest days of the ride, you won’t be without a challenge as you steadily cycling up-hill. Take the time to stop in at the occasional lookout where the mountain vistas and panoramic views provide memories to last a lifetime. Once you reach the beautiful resort at Fontana Village we encourage you will take the extra time to relax and enjoy your lodge accommodations.

Oct. 2nd Day Three (Ashville to Cherokee)

Spend this day cycling west along the acclaimed Blue Ridge Parkway. Looking into fall, the trees are a fiesta of color! With the number of roads to a minimum, day three will require less navigation allowing you to enjoy the ride. As you travel along the parkway there are numerous lookouts for you to stop in and admire the view. You will also be passing through several short tunnels so remember to bring your bicycle lights and reflectors. Cherry Cove Lookout is one stop that presents a rare opportunity to watch the orange, brown and black Monarch butterflies migrate south through the Smoky Mountains. In the afternoon, you will be stopping for lunch at Graveyard Fields. Make sure you bring your walking shoes because after you eat you can take the enchanting walk down a tree covered path to the river below. Once at the river, there are a few different trails that lead to more falls and the actual Graveyard Fields. At the end of the day you will be arriving in Cherokee, North Carolina. This little town is filled with tribal stores and Indian artifacts. For dinner, you will be having a picnic at the local park on the banks of the Oconaluftee River. The river is spring fed and sheltered by canopies of oak and sycamore trees. Enjoy this time of fellowship before its back to the hotel for the night.