Baxter segment to be featured in 13th annual 'Ride with Jim'

BAXTER - Interested bikers may ride the 13th annual "Ride with Congressman James L. Oberstar" on the Paul Bunyan State Trail Sunday in Baxter.

Hosted by the Paul Bunyan Trail Association and Brainerd Community Action, this year's ride will showcase the newest section of the Baxter trail system. There will be a dedication of a one-mile section of the Baxter trail system, that has been anticipated for 10 years.

The ride will start at 8 a.m. at the Northland Arboretum parking lot and proceed through the Oberstar tunnel and Excelsior bridge. The group will convene at the site of the former railroad tie manufacturing plant. At this site a short informal program will take place. During the stop, coffee, rolls, juice and water will be provided by Brainerd Community Action at no charge to the riders. The total trail ride distance of about 15 miles will bring the riders back to the start of the ride.

At the end of the official "Ride with Jim," riders are on their own. Riders have the option of continuing on the Paul Bunyan Trail for an additional distance of 9 miles to Merrifield, 16 miles to Nisswa.

No registration fee is required. Bikers may choose any ride portion on the trail. The ride will take place rain or shine. Community members and elected officials not on the ride are welcome to join the group at the dedication site.

Approved helmets are required. No shuttle service or sag wagon will be available. Riders should carry tools, pump and spare tube.

A limited number of commemorative buttons will be available.