Moonrise Bike Ride 2024

The 2024 Moonrise Bike Ride was a resounding success, solidifying its reputation as a unique cycling event and the largest bikepacking experience in Kansas. Riders traversed the stunning Flint Hills Trail, enjoyed perfect weather, and shared an unforgettable weekend filled with bikepacking, music, and camaraderie. This year marked a significant milestone, with the event selling out for the first time and 300 participants embarking on a two-day adventure through the beautiful Flint Hills and Pomona Lake State Park. From live bluegrass performances to delicious meals prepared by local caterers, the Moonrise Bike Ride once again delivered an experience that will be cherished for years to come.

Our sixth Moonrise Bike Ride proved to be a success, with the decision to move the event to September proving to be spot-on. We enjoyed ideal weather throughout the weekend, a refreshing contrast to the sweltering 100-degree temperatures of 2023. This year, the event reached new heights with 300 participants, doubling last year's numbers and marking the first sell-out in our history.

The weekend began on Friday at Riverbank Brewing Company in Council Grove, where 50 Campfire Riders checked in. Attendees enjoyed drinks and lunch from a food truck parked outside, with some taking the chance to explore the local businesses along the charming Main Street. After a leisurely afternoon, riders set off for their first stop at Base Camp Flint Hills in Allen.

Riders tackled a scenic 22-mile ride on the Flint Hills Trail to reach base camp. Upon arrival, they set up their bikepacking gear and settled in for the evening as Flint Hills Catering prepared dinner and the bands set up for the night’s entertainment.

Dinner featured smoked BBQ chicken, grilled vegetables, cheesy potato casserole, and cheese ravioli, with key lime tartlets for dessert, all expertly prepared by Chef CJ of Flint Hills Catering.

The evening’s entertainment began with Sally and the Hurts, making their third appearance at the Moonrise Bike Ride. Their distinctive sound, featuring a musical saw, soaring violin, and thoughtful lyrics, set the perfect tone for the night. They were followed by the Haymakers, first-time performers who captivated the crowd with their blend of bluegrass, folk, western, and soul, along with engaging lyrics and stories that kept everyone entertained well into the night.

On Saturday morning, riders packed up and enjoyed breakfast before embarking on the 40-mile ride to Pomona Lake State Park for the Main Event.

That afternoon, riders arrived in Ottawa, where they participated in local festivities and shopped along Main Street before heading to Pomona Lake State Park.

Once at the park, riders set up camp and were treated to live music from Sons of Timaeus, a collaboration between singer-songwriters Trent Gaddie and Jordan Butler.

Dinner featured prime rib from Angry River Barbecue, accompanied by delicious sides like barbecue pit beans and smoked mac and cheese. Vegetarian options included popular smoked jackfruit tacos.

Dessert was a highlight, with a cheesecake bar provided by Flint Hills Catering presenting one of the weekend’s toughest choices—selecting the perfect cheesecake.

=======================

The evening’s entertainment continued with The Unfit Wives, who made their second appearance as a full group. Their high-energy bluegrass tunes electrified the crowd. The night was capped off by Front Porch, whose fast-picking, hard-driving bluegrass wowed the audience.

The traditional Moonlight Ride followed, where 300 riders illuminated the camping area with their bikes in a glowing parade—a memorable highlight of the weekend.

After a restful night’s sleep, riders awoke to a breathtaking sunrise over the lake, enjoyed coffee and breakfast from Flint Hills Catering, and packed up their gear for the final leg of the ride back to Ottawa, concluding another unforgettable Moonrise Bike Ride.

<< Full Photo Album >>