Unleash your competitive spirit or simply get energized with one of our exciting fall fitness challenges. Set against a stunning backdrop along the shores of Lake Michigan, our scenic events will have you biking or running your way to euphoria as you put your body to the ultimate physical test.

Back this year in person and better than ever is our highly anticipated Mt. Baldhead Challenge, an invigorating multi-terrain foot race happening on Saturday, September 11, 2021. Two exciting and demanding courses have been carefully designed to showcase the beautiful and diverse landscapes of Saugatuck. The Challenge twists, turns, and climbs around 5.5 miles of Saugatuck trails, while the Ultimate Challenge provides 7.5 miles of adventure. Both courses begin at Oval Beach and culminate with the iconic 302-step climb up Mt. Baldhead, followed by the sandy descent back to Oval Beach to the finish line. A virtual option is also available so that runners can join from wherever they are.

All proceeds from the Mt. Baldhead Challenge will go directly toward the Boys & Girls Club of Saugatuck/Douglas. Participants are encouraged to make a weekend of it by celebrating on Friday, September 10, with pre-race activities that include a fireworks display over Lake Kalamazoo, sponsored by the Saugatuck-Douglas Rotary Club. Stay until Sunday to explore all the recreational, cultural, and culinary opportunities that abound in Saugatuck/Douglas. To learn more about the race and to register, visit mtbaldheadchallenge.com.

Bikers of all abilities are invited to join us on Saturday, September 18, 2021, for the 10th Annual Lakeshore Harvest Ride. With the ebbing of summer crowds and seasonally dry, cool weather, there is simply no better time for a Michigan bike ride. Enjoy a countryside bicycle tour where participants can visit art studios, wineries, cider mills, family farms, and fruit orchards along the way, including Khnemu Studio, Fenn Valley Vineyards & Winery, Modales Winery, Virtue Cider, Dee’s Lakeshore Farm, and Summerhouse Lavender Farm.

Begin in either Douglas or South Haven on one of four routes, ranging in length from 15 to 67 miles to accommodate riders of varying abilities. The tour includes lunch, snacks, water, and Gatorade and even provides concierge service to transport any purchases for riders to pick up after the event. All the net proceeds from the event will support the Friends of the Blue Star Trail and their work to construct a 20-mile recreational paved trail near the Lake Michigan shore from Saugatuck to South Haven. T-shirts and cycling jerseys will be available for purchase both online and on Ride day. Come for the ride, stay for the weekend to enjoy all that our charming beach towns have to offer. Specific lodging establishments are offering discounts for riders—find out more here. To register and learn more about the event, visit lhride.com.