325 Miles
Download 5 West Route Map
The most popular DALMAC Route. This route often sells out quickly because it is the embodiment of bicycle touring in Michigan. With challenging routes through the scenic terrain of Western Michigan, and along the shores of Lake Michigan. This is what the DALMAC is all about for many of our returning riders.
Wednesday: to Vestaburg High School – 73 Miles
Riders leave the Michigan State University campus on Wednesday, traveling north through farmlands and small towns. Riders turn westward at Alma onto the Fred Meijer Heartland Trail, finishing at Vestaburg High school.
Thursday: to McBain/Northern MI Christian School – 74 Miles
Thursday supplies more open country and small farming towns before finishing in McBain surrounded by corn fields and dairy farms.
Friday: Overnight in Kalkaska at the Kaliseum (community center) – 55 Miles
On Friday, riders wind North and West crossing the upland country of Michigan’s charming “Fruit Ridge” known for both the quality of its tree fruit production and for the number of hills.
Saturday: to Petoskey High School – 72/75 Miles
Saturday features both longer and shorter routes to the Lake Michigan fronting city of Charlevoix where riders will turn onto the Little Traverse Wheelway Trail all the way to Petoskey. Riders may also choose a route following the shoreline of both Elk Lake and beautiful Torch Lake and then on to East Jordan. home of “The Wall.” A final climb carries you to the finish at the Petoskey High School.
Sunday: to Mackinaw City High School – 52 Miles
The DALMAC 5 West route culminates on Sunday, going north on M-119, to the picturesque “Tunnel of Trees” overlooking Lake Michigan. Riders will pass through the communities of Harbor Springs, Good Hart, and Cross Village before reaching Mackinaw City. Many riders stop at Good Hart where the Good Hart General Store is ready to sell lunch.
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 route check-in takes place Tuesday, August 27, 2024, from 5-7:00 pm and Wednesday, August 28, 2024, from 7-9 a.m. 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 27, 2024, and Sunday September 1, 2024, is available for $25 for each night and can be purchased during registration.