The Loon Ride at Mercer Bike Fest is a cycling event held in Mercer, Wisconsin on August 1, 2026, offering three distance options: 7 miles, 24 miles, and a 50-mile ultra. The race starts at 9:00 AM from the venue located at 2532 CTH-J. Entry fees range from $55 to $65 depending on the distance selected. Whether you're looking for a shorter introductory ride or a longer endurance challenge, this event accommodates various fitness levels. If you're traveling to Mercer for the Loon Ride, you'll want accommodation close to the venue for an easy pre-race morning.
From the Race Organizer
August 1st, 2026 - Join us for the Second Annual Loon Ride at the Mercer Bike Fest. ICORE (Iron County Outdoor Recreation Enthusiasts) announces the Second Annual Mercer Bike Fest and Loon Ride . The event supports our fund raising efforts to expand the current Mercer bike trail from Carow Park along Hwy J to WinMan Trails ultimately completing a 26 mile loop of Mercer and Manitowish Waters as part of the Heart of Vilas County trail system. Join us in our efforts by riding a 7, 24, or 50 mile route starting and ending at Carow Park on the shores of beautiful Grand Portage Lake. When you return to Carow Park stay with us for music, food and raffles. Cool off with a swim in the lake! Registration fee includes moisture wicking ride shirt, beverage and lunch. Kids 10 and under ride FREE* when accompanied by a paid adult and do not need to register online. Kid friendly activities at the park after the ride. For more about the Mercer bike trails and how you can play a part in completing the loop click here . This event also kicks off the week of Loon Days with the annual Loon Day Art and Craft fair on Saturday August 5th with over 250 vendors. Loon Day has been a Mercer tradition for over 45 years! Clarification on E-bikes. Due to some confusion surrounding e-bike classes we have updated our policy. YES, they are allowed . Please restrict your speed to a maximum speed of 20mph. Please use proper cycling etiquette at all times. Keep to the right on the trail unless passing someone. When passing someone, always pass on the left and give a verbal warning like “On your left” so they can move aside safely. Maintain a safe speed. Don’t ride too fast, especially in areas with heavy foot traffic, sharp turns, or uneven surfaces. Use hand signals. If you’re turning or stopping. Pedestrians have the right of way, so always slow down and be prepared to stop if needed. Be courteous. Alert walkers with a friendly “hello” or “excuse me” when approaching from behind. Don’t tailgate. Give other riders plenty of space. If you need to stop, pull over to the right side and allow others to pass safely. Never stop in the middle of the trail. *Free riders are not eligible for T-shirt, or lunch
Hotels Near This Race
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Race Travel Insurance
Don't forget travel insurance for August 1.
You've trained for months and booked a trip to Mercer, WI.
A pre-race injury, a delayed flight, or a family emergency can derail the whole thing.
Travel insurance can help cover your race entry fee, hotel, and flights if you can't make it,
and may cover medical costs if something goes wrong on the course. Plans typically only run
5-7% of your total trip cost — and running events are covered under standard plans with no
additional coverage needed.
Trip cancellation up to 100% of prepaid costs
Running events covered under standard plans — no add-ons needed
Trip interruption up to 150% of non-refundable costs
When is Loon Ride at Mercer Bike Fest 2026 — Mercer, WI?
Loon Ride at Mercer Bike Fest 2026 — Mercer, WI takes place on August 1, 2026. The race is held in Mercer, Wisconsin.
Where is Loon Ride at Mercer Bike Fest 2026 — Mercer, WI held?
Loon Ride at Mercer Bike Fest 2026 — Mercer, WI is held at 2532 CTH-J in Mercer, Wisconsin.
Where can I find hotels near Loon Ride at Mercer Bike Fest 2026 — Mercer, WI?
RaceHotelFinder shows hotels sorted by distance from the race venue in Mercer. Use the map or list view on this page to compare options and book race weekend accommodation.
