Routes set for Bike the Barn Quilts rides

Plans have been finalized for the second annual Bike the Barn Quilts family fun ride. Sponsored by Shawano Pathways, the recreational scenic bicycle ride through Shawano County will be held Sept. 27. It is geared for all ages and skill levels. The rides will consist of routes varying in distance from 5 to 70 miles. Each ride showcases some of the county’s 270-plus barn quilts against a backdrop of fall colors. All rides start and end at Memorial Athletic Park, 909 Lincoln St., Shawano. Rest stops with food and refreshments will be provided. Three barn quilts will be featured on the family fun ride of approximately 5 to 8 miles, which will go west out of Shawano on the Mountain Bay Trail. A 15-mile short ride also goes west out of Shawano and features 12 quilts. The 22-mile ride toward Cloverleaf Lakes will feature 11 quilts. There will be 23 quilts on the 35-mile ride to Gresham. The 70-mile ride will go around Shawano Lake through Cecil, Pulaski and Bonduel before returning to Shawano. Along the route will be 30 quilts to view. There also will be a 15-mile guided tour that will provide information on each farm and quilt pattern. The 70-mile ride starts at 9 a.m. and will be followed by the others in 10-minute increments. For information, contact Jerry Czech at 920-609-9910 or jczech@granitwave.com. Shawano Pathways is a nonprofit organization working to facilitate the development, implementation and maintenance of a greenway and trails network in Shawano County.