Help us ride for hope in Haiti and support the Gardens of Hope Campaign!
Pedal for a purpose! Whether you are a casual cruiser or an avid cyclist, there is a route and distance for you. Join us for one of the following rides and support the transformation of Haiti communities.
Midland Ride
Saturday, Sept. 5, 2026
Ride begins 8am
Midland to Clare on the paved Pere Marquette Rail Trail
ROUTES
Midland to Averill: One way 6 miles/Round trip 12 miles
Midland to Sanford: One way 7.5 miles/Round trip 15 miles
Midland to Coleman: One way 21 miles/Round trip 42 miles
Midland to Clare: One way 31.5 miles/Round trip 63 miles
Cedar Springs Ride
Monday, Sept. 7, 2026
Ride begins 8am
Cedar Springs to Big Rapids on the paved White Pine Trail
ROUTES
Cedar Springs to Sand Lake: One way 5 miles/Round trip 10 miles
Cedar Springs to Howard City: One way 12.5 miles/Round trip 25 miles
Cedar Springs to Stanwood: One way 28 miles/Round trip 57 miles
Cedar Springs to Big Rapids: One way 37 miles/Round trip 74 miles
Ride details
Q: Where and when are the rides?
A: The ride is offered on two separate days: Saturday, September 5 in Midland and Monday, September 7 in Cedar Springs.
Q: How long is the ride?
A: It is your choice how far you ride. When you check in, you will be asked to submit a ride plan. We have some route options. Please plan a round-trip route that works best for loading up when you are done.
Important: You must check in when you are done.
Q: How do I register for the ride?
A: Please register and prepay by clicking the red button above.
Q: Can I just do the ride by myself at a time or day that works for me?
A: No. We encourage healthy exercise, but because we can’t ensure safe conditions and provide rider support, the official ride is only during designated times and locations.
Q: How much does it cost?
A: Registration is $26 per rider. Because this is a mission fundraiser, each rider is ALSO asked to set a goal to raise a minimum of $100 in donations for the “Gardens of Hope” missions initiative in Haiti. To be clear, the $26 registration fee will cover the cost of a T-shirt, SAG vehicle fuel, and snacks/water for the event.
ALL DONATIONS will go directly to support Haitian missions.
Q: What should I bring with me?
A: Bring a bike in good working condition, a bike helmet, your ID, a working cell phone, your ride plan, a water bottle, and wear proper clothing for cycling.
Q: Is there rider support?
A: Yes. We will have SAG vehicles ready to assist riders with physical or mechanical difficulties. All you have to do is use your cell phone to alert us to your need, and we will come to assist you. Also, at stops along the way, we will have cold water and energy snacks for riders.
Q: Do I have to wear a helmet?
A: Yes. For safety and liability, you must wear a helmet to be part of the ride.
Q: How do I promote my ride?
A: Use the Gardens of Hope flyer and videos on the campaign web page and download the materials below to post on your personal social media feeds as well as church bulletin boards, newsletters, websites, etc.
Q: What should I do with money that people give me?
A: Have people use the QR code or give by cash or a check written out to Michigan Conference UMC (note “3066 Bike Ride” in the memo line). Fill out the donor form with each contribution. Our coordinators will verify the amount to be deposited.
Q: What if it rains? Is there a make-up date?
A: Yes, Saturday, September 12 in Midland.
Register now!
Complete the online registration form (click here), then use the QR code below to submit your $26 entry fee per rider.
