42-Mile Lake Crystal Loop
Comments: Ride Time was 3 hours 18 minutes, average speed: 12.6
Another gorgeous October day allows us to totally enjoy the inaugural Mankato River Ramble around a scenic river valley. Approximately 1500 riders joined us for this beautiful fall riding day. We arrived early to allow time for registration and be ready to ride by the 8:30 a.m. start time. We sought out one friendly volunteer who was willing to discuss the route with us. Jack guaranteed us that we were in for a real treat and he was correct.
Registration was held at the Land of Memories Park in Mankato where it was an easy entry onto the Minneopa Bike Trail to begin the ride. We soon came upon the 1901 Red Jacket Railroad Trestle. Unfortunately it was under repair so we could not bike over it but were informed it would be completed for next year’s ride. At mile 13, we came to the town of Rapidan and our first rest stop held in the County Park. Home-baked pie was being served and we just could not resist the display of mouth-watering choices.
After visiting with the friendly volunteers at the Rapidan rest stop, we got back on the bikes to pedal off the calories we just consumed. We continued along CR 9 towards the town of Lake Crystal—passing the three small lakes of Loon, Crystal and Lily. The views were wonderful along the stretch of CR 42. Much concentration was needed when descending one long hill known as the “Elevator Shaft”. Breaks were applied for most of the cruise down this monster hill and still my speed exceeded 40 mph. We then crossed the Minnesota River and found ourselves on Judson Bottom Road which provided many views of the winding Minnesota River. I missed snapping many photos but would have had to stop every mile along this stretch of road to capture the surrounding beauty. Next year we will bring the tandem!
At mile 34, we came upon another well-run rest stop at Minnemishinona Falls. We were entertained here by the Rain Dogs—how dare they have such a name but their sound was very enjoyable. The falls were not flowing much today but the stop provided a quiet place to rest and visit and of course have another treat.
Back on the bike, I was getting pretty tired and was not looking to climb any more hills. Just as I thought I could not take another hill, the hills decreased and we began hearing cheers from volunteers near the finish. This was another marvelous biking event that I would recommend to any rider looking for a day to ramble along the river bottoms and enjoy the music, food and fun created by the many volunteers with the goal to provide an exceptional Mankato River Ramble experience. 
This ride marked the end of our organized ride schedule for this year. We plan to continue putting on miles until the weather no longer permits our bikes on the road.
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