Pedal Across Lower Michigan (PALM) is an annual bicycling event established in 1982. This year their 44th tour route begins in Pentwater on Saturday, June 20 and passes through Montague, White Cloud, Evart, Houghton Lake and Hale before concluding in Oscoda, Michigan on Friday, June 26. PALM is a “non-profit group dedicated to encouraging family bicycling and the promotion of bicycling safety.”
Pentwater Village Manager Toby Van Ess received an email communication on June 5 that read: “Congratulations! Pentwater has been chosen by Pedal Across Lower Michigan bike tour, yet again. Over 400 Palm bicycle riders and staff will arrive in town on Saturday, June 20 to spend the night camping on the school grounds and leave in the morning, Sunday, June 21… Thank you for sharing your town with us. Pentwater is definitely a favorite PALM destination.”
Van Ess wants residents to understand why all the bikes will appear next weekend. Being aware of the guest cyclists will encourage drivers to be alert and hopefully make the village safer for the PALM riders.
PALM tours are limited to 700 riders, who must be able to bike up to 50 miles a day for six consecutive days. The total ride distance is 250-300 miles. Families are welcome, and participants under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Routing is primarily along rural paved back roads, passing many points of scenic, cultural and historic interest that cyclists are welcome to explore. Major urban areas are generally avoided, although small downtown areas may be included for the sake of interest. Participants can park their motor vehicles at the origin or final destination of the route, and transportation will be provided to bring them to the appropriate location on June 20 or June 26.
Anyone with questions or with an interest in participating, please call Robin at 248-505-1571. Registration is open until June 20 as long as space is available. www.palmbiketour.org
