Coming off of a record year, organizers of the upcoming Ride with Leinie cycling event in Conover are excited to celebrate their 15th year.

This Saturday, July 25, cyclists from across the Midwest will gather for the event that invites the public to experience scenic Northwoods routes while also raising funds to improve biking and walking trails throughout eastern Vilas County.

The annual ride, which is hosted by the Great Headwaters Trails Foundation (GHTF), attracted more than 500 cyclists from 15 states last year. Race director and GHTF President Laura Van Valkenberg said they are on pace to match or beat the record set in 2025, and highlighted some of the great prizes that have been lined up for the celebration at Conover Town Park that will follow the rides.

“We’re grateful for the continued support of our riders, volunteers, sponsors, and community partners,” Van Valkenberg added. “Every registration helps us preserve and expand trails that improve recreation, tourism, and quality of life throughout eastern Vilas County.”

Something for everyone

The annual fundraiser offers five ride options for cyclists of all abilities, including rides along the scenic Conover-Phelps Trail, a 10.2-mile bicycle and pedestrian trail connecting the communities of Conover and Phelps.

Participants may choose from a 20.4-mile trail ride led by Dick Leinenkugel, retired president of Jacob Leinenkugel Brewing Company; a 10.4-mile family-friendly trail ride; or scenic 20-, 40-, or 62-mile road routes through the Northwoods. The 40-mile and 62-mile Metric Century routes wind through the picturesque communities of Conover, Land O’ Lakes, and Phelps before returning to Conover.

Riders depart as a group at designated times but ride at their own pace. The 62-mile Metric Century begins at 7:30 a.m., followed by the 40-mile ride at 8:30 a.m., the 20.4-mile trail ride at 9:30 a.m., the 20-mile road ride at 10 a.m., and the 10.4-mile trail ride at 10:30 a.m.
All rides begin and end at Conover Town Park.

Post-ride party open to all

Following the ride, participants will gather at Conover Town Park for a festive post-ride celebration beginning at 11:30 a.m. The event features a picnic-style lunch, Leinenkugel’s beer on tap, music, raffle drawings and a live auction. Friends, family members and the public are invited to attend the after-ride festivities.

Auction highlights include a vintage Gary Fisher Trek mountain bike featuring Leinenkugel’s branding; a one-of-a-kind stained-glass art piece; a handcrafted Aldo Leopold bench engraved with the Leinenkugel’s name; and a traditional Wisconsin fish fry dinner with Dick and Jean Leinenkugel.

Leinenkugel, now a local resident, expressed his continued support for this endeavor.
“Ride with Leinie is not just a bike ride, it’s a celebration of Wisconsin’s outdoors and a chance to support trail development that connects our communities,” he said.

Proceeds from the event support GHTF’s mission to develop and support a system of family-friendly biking and walking trails in eastern Vilas County. Thanks in large part to Ride with Leinie, GHTF has contributed more than $25,000 toward maintaining the Conover-Phelps Trail over the past three years. Current projects include extending the Conover-Phelps Trail 2 miles to Torch Lake County Park; developing the River Trail connecting Eagle River and St. Germain; and constructing a safer Highway 45 crossing in downtown Eagle River.

Sign-up still open

Registration cost is $60 per rider and includes the ride, an event T-shirt, picnic lunch, and three beverage tickets. Advance registration is encouraged, as T-shirts are guaranteed for the first 500 participants who register. Day-of registration will also be accepted with cash or check payment.

Friends, family members, and other non-riders are welcome to join the post-ride festivities at Conover Town Park beginning at 11:30 a.m. Meal and beverage tickets will be available for purchase with cash at the event.

To register or learn more, visit bikereg.com/ride-with-leinie.