Download the detailed route map here. Note that this map is a DRAFT of the route.
286/312 Miles
The shortest 5-Day Route. This route, while still a good test of bicycling endurance, is the least hilly. It has scenic roads and miles of forests and farmland, but it is tuned for those riders not looking to “leave it all on the road” every day.
Wednesday: to Alma College – 61 Miles
The 5-Day East route begins Wednesday at Michigan State University and takes riders north through miles of farmland to end in Alma.
Thursday: to Gladwin High School – 56 Miles
Thursday’s route continues to roll through farmland and is later followed by the upland forests that define the borders of “Up North” Michigan, finishing the day in Gladwin.
Friday: to Grayling High School – 65 Miles
Friday’s route heads into the historic heart of White Pine country, passing West of both Houghton and Higgins Lakes and ending on the banks of the storied Au Sable River in Grayling.
Saturday: to Cheboygan High School- 73 Miles
On Saturday, riders head northwest on tree-lined roads, following the shores of Otsego Lake, through Gaylord and all the way to Cheboygan High School in Cheboygan Michigan on Lake Huron.
Sunday: to Mackinaw City High School – 36/64 Miles
Sunday provides riders with a choice: taking the direct route to the finish in Mackinaw City, 41 miles away, or following a 71-mile route crossing the Tip of the Mitt to Good Hart, where a fabulous lunch stop awaits. Riders then join the DALMAC riders from the West Routes riding through Michigan’s Tunnel of Trees overlooking Lake Michigan, before finishing in Mackinaw City.
Starting Location: On the Michigan State University Campus in East Lansing, MI.
The MSU Pavilion for Agriculture and Livestock Education is an arena, auditorium, meeting location, and exhibit area located on the South side of the Michigan State University Campus. The street address is: 4301 Farm Lane, Lansing, MI 48910.
5-Day East route check-in takes place Tuesday, August 26, 2025, from 5-7:00 pm and Wednesday, August 27, 2025, from 7-9 am. Riders and other participants must be present at check-in to receive wrist bands, rider packets, and sign a liability waiver if they have not already done so. The wristband serves as the participant’s access to meals, showers and other facilities. Registered riders and other participants must present picture ID to check in. Riders will pick up any DALMAC Gear they purchased at rider check-in.
Camping at the MSU Pavilion the night of August 26, 2025, and Sunday August 31, 2025, is available for $25 for each night and can be purchased during registration.