¡Pick Me Up at the Border!

Prepare for an unforgettable overnight endurance challenge at ¡Pick Me Up at the Border! While traditionally known as a long-distance, nighttime gravel ride, this event on September 18, 2026, in Fitchburg, WI, offers a unique opportunity for endurance enthusiasts. Kicking off from The Seminole Tap, participants will embark on a journey along the scenic Badger State Trail, traversing mostly gravel and dirt paths with a brief initial stretch of asphalt.

Choose your adventure from three demanding distances: an 80-mile trek to the Illinois state line and back, a 40-mile journey to Monticello, or a 25-mile route to Belleville. The course features a brief detour around the closed Stewart Tunnel, adding to the trail's character. As this is a nighttime event, proper lighting is essential, allowing you to experience the trail under the stars. Typical race day conditions in mid-September bring comfortable highs around 73°F and lows around 52°F, with a modest 14% chance of precipitation, making for ideal cool-weather endurance.

Though largely unsupported, the event provides crucial water and snack stops at trailheads in Belleville, Monticello, and the Jane Addams Trail, with a 24-hour convenience store available in Monroe for those tackling the longer distances. This non-competitive event serves as a fundraiser for Bike Fitchburg, Inc., contributing to local bicycle advocacy. ¡Pick Me Up at the Border! promises a challenging and memorable overnight experience for those seeking a unique endurance test.