Erie Sports Commission Announces Opening of Registration for Lake Erie Cyclefest

The Erie Sports Commission is pleased to announce that registration for the 2025 Lake Erie Cyclefest, sponsored by Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield and AHN Saint Vincent Hospital, is now open with great options for every cycling goal. This year’s event, featuring six rides over four days across Erie County, will take place July 24-27 and will once again benefit nonprofit partner organizations.

Those looking to start cycling for the first time can set their sights on shorter rides, like the Lake Erie Cyclefest Downtown Slow Roll, or the shorter-distance options offered by the Tour de West County, Presque Isle Sunrise Ride and See Spot Ride, Ride for Animal Rescue. Each ride offers unique landscapes and difficulty levels.

Three of the event’s six rides offer distance options of 25-50 miles for experienced cyclists looking to stay active or challenge themselves, and the Six Mile Creek Classic allows mountain bikers of all ages and skill levels to take to the woods at Six Mile Creek Park.

"Lake Erie Cyclefest has become a signature event that draws hundreds of cyclists of all abilities each year," said Mark Jeanneret, executive director of the Erie Sports Commission. "We’re proud to collaborate with six incredible nonprofit organizations that lead the rides and use the funds raised to advance their missions."

Participating nonprofit organizations include Asbury Woods, Because You Care, Bike Erie, Erie Downtown Partnership, Northern Allegheny Mountain Bike Association and Presque Isle Partnership. The Erie Sports Commission began managing the Lake Erie Cyclefest brand, executing event marketing and promotions and overseeing coordination of the hosted rides in 2021, ensuring the event continues to run annually as it has since 2017.

Registration is now open at www.lakeeriecyclefest.org.

Six rides will make up the all-cycling weekend:

Downtown Slow Roll – Thursday, July 24, 6 p.m.
Registration: Free and voluntary donations to Bike Erie are appreciated (pre-registration is required)
The Erie Downtown Partnership, in collaboration with Bike Erie, will kick off Lake Erie Cyclefest with their annual Downtown Slow Roll on Thursday, July 24! The family-friendly bike ride will feature a 10-mile leisurely ride through the vibrant streets of downtown, showcasing points of interest along the way. Open to all ages, the ride begins and ends at Perry Square, where vendors will celebrate the event. 

Grape Escape Ride – Friday, July 25, 50-mile at 8:30 a.m. and 25-mile at 9:30 a.m.
Registration: $40 Early Bird through June 6
Experience the Grape Escape Ride, featuring a stunning 25 or 50-mile journey through Erie County’s renowned Wine Country! Starting and ending at Southshore Winery in North East, this ride offers refreshing lake breezes, the delightful aroma of grapes and the beauty of the countryside. Celebrate your morning adventure with wine samples, delicious food, and a great atmosphere. 

Tour de West County – Saturday, July 26, 50-mile at 8 a.m., 25-mile at 9 a.m., and 12-mile at 10 a.m.
Registration: $40 Early Bird through June 6
The Tour de West County is one of the region's oldest and largest cycling events. Beginning and ending at the Asbury Woods Nature Center, participants can choose from 12, 25, or 50-mile routes that wind through rolling hills, meadows, and farmlands. After the ride, enjoy a post-ride picnic featuring food and drinks.

Six Mile Creek Classic – Saturday, July 26, 2 p.m.

Registration: $40 until July 26

The Six Mile Creek Classic is a thrilling mountain biking event for riders of all ages. Held at Six Mile Creek Park in Harborcreek Township, participants will navigate a six-mile loop through woods, hills, and dirt trails. Classes include beginner, youth, sport, expert, single speed, and Class 1 E-Bike. Helmets are mandatory for all riders, regardless of age or skill level. Food and drinks will be available throughout the afternoon to celebrate the race.

Presque Isle Sunrise Ride – Sunday, July 27, 6 a.m.

Registration: $30 Early Bird through June 6

Experience the stunning beauty of Presque Isle State Park during the Presque Isle Sunrise Ride. A magnificent Lake Erie sunrise awaits you at Presque Isle State Park. Geared for all riders, this self-tour of stunning scenery around the 13-mile peninsula offers an early morning tour of the Presque Isle Lighthouse and is followed by the annual Discover Presque Isle Pancake Breakfast, included with registration.

See Spot Ride, Ride for Animal Rescue – Sunday, July 27

40-mile at 9 a.m., 25-mile at 9:30 a.m., and 10-mile at 9:45 a.m.

Registration: $40 Early Bird through June 6          
This exciting event takes place on the scenic roads of McKean Township in Southern Erie County, featuring picturesque routes for varied abilities. Choose from 40-, 25-, or 10-mile rides, all starting at McKean Elementary School and finishing at the Because You Care Adoption Center. Celebrate your ride with a fun “Pawty” that includes lunch, drinks, music, and plenty of adorable, adoptable friends! Don’t miss out on this fantastic day for a great cause!

All ride proceeds will benefit the hosting nonprofit organizations.