Tri-Harder Routes
Kayak Route:
2-mile kayak up and down the Flat River,
Breakdown
The Flat River tends to have a negligible current in downtown Lowell. Don't count on having to work harder on your way out, nor a guiding push on the way back.
Bike Route:
Breakdown
Miles 1-6: Just getting warmed up. Take time to get those legs churning as you experience mostly flat terrain and beautiful Fred Meijer Flat River Valley Trail scenery.
Mile 7: Turn it up a notch. Some rolling hills as you start to experience what the glaciers carved out in Lowell, soaking in the sights and smells of Lowell agriculture.
Miles 8-11: Gear-shifter's paradise. Get ready to work your legs as well as your fingers. This is where the hills start to roll one after another.
Mile 12: The Montcalm Mountain. The most devious and lengthy hill on the course. Think you're just about at the top? Think again. If you make it all the way up this hill in the saddle, you have my respect.
Miles 13-15: The Wall. If you've made it this far, try to fall back in a groove and power through.
Mile 16: WEEEEE! All that hard work is finally paying off. Take this time to let your legs recover as you speed down the final hills to the finish line. Good luck running.
Tri-Harder Interactive Bike Route
Run/Walk Route:
Breakdown
Mile 1: Start this leg by coasting through the streets of residential Lowell, making sure your legs still work.
Mile 2: Hop on the North Country Trail for, you guessed it, another big hill -- "the Devil's peak." If this hill slows you down at all, try to focus on the positives -- specifically the beautiful view overlooking the Flat River to your left. The rest of mile two has minor speed bumps along the way, but nothing you can't handle at this point!
PLEASE NOTE: this portion of the race will be trail running. Please make sure to watch your step for roots, branches, wildlife that call this place home.
Mile 3: Finally, some familiar faces. To finish your run (or walk at this point), you will be going down the same route as the bike finish. Finish strong!
