May is National Bike Month, promoted by the League of American Bicyclists and celebrated in communities from coast to coast!
Established in 1956, National Bike Month is a chance to showcase the many benefits of bicycling — and encourage more folks to give biking a try. Each May, Greater Mankato Bike and Walk Advocates (GMBWA) promotes a series of events to encourage the community to get outside and enjoy the spring weather.
Join us for the annual Mayor's Ride, a community bike ride led by North Mankato Mayor Scott Carlson, Mankato Mayor Najwa Massad, and GMBWA President Ben Scheidel. This event highlights key biking infrastructure and future improvements while bringing the community together for an evening ride.
📅 Date: Thursday, May 15, 2025
⏰ Time: 6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
📍 Start/End Location: Wheeler Park, North Mankato
🚴 Total Distance: ~6 miles
⚠️ Note: Due to on-street riding and highway crossings, the primary route is not recommended for younger children. Families with younger children can join a guided, family-friendly ride through the trails around Hiniker Pond and Spring Lake Park.
6:00 p.m. – Welcome and comments from Mayor Massad, Mayor Carlson, and GMBWA President Ben Scheidel. Ride instructions provided.
6:15 p.m. – Ride departs Wheeler Park
Stops along the route (discussion points):
~6:30 p.m. – N. River Drive / Rex Macbeth River Trail: Discussion on proposed Hwy 169 underpasses
East Mulberry St. – Transition from path to street
~6:45 p.m. – Broad Street bike lane discussion
~7:00 p.m. – A Street bike lane pavement condition review
~7:15 p.m. – Center Street in North Mankato: Potential for a protected bike lane?
7:30 p.m. – Return to Wheeler Park for ice cream and socializing
All riders are welcome. Helmets are encouraged. Please arrive by 6:00 p.m. ready to ride.
