Bike to the Bunkhouse Fundraiser!

What better way to enjoy the Fall foliage and support the Camelot bunkhouse project this Indigenous People’s Day weekend than to Bike to the Bunkhouse?

Bike to the Bunkhouse is a 3 day supported road bike ride from MIT to Camelot, the MIT Outing Club’s beloved Groton, NH cabin and future site of the Bunkhouse. On the first day, participants will ride from MIT out of Boston, through the suburbs on multi-use paths such as the Minuteman Bikeway and the Nashua River Rail Trail, continuing on backroads through New Hampshire to Greenfield State Park (~72mi, 3800’ of elevation). For those looking for a gentler introduction, the commuter rail may be taken from Porter Square to Littleton/Ayer to cut off about 25 miles.

From Greenfield, the hills roll larger as riders cycle in the shadow of Mt. Kearsarge and Mt. Cardigan as they approach the White Mountains. When you arrive at Camelot (~80 mi, 4500’ of elevation), you will be greeted with a feast of epic proportions and enjoy an evening of hanging out around the campfire.

On the last day, participants will have the option of going for a leisurely ride on one of several routes in the hills around Camelot (with swimming options!), or simply hanging out until the bus arrives in the afternoon to transport riders and their bikes back to Boston.

In addition to the road route, there will also be an optional GRAVEL route for those who prefer a walk on the wilder side - expect distances to be 10 miles longer with double the elevation. The road and gravel routes rejoin at lunch, so you can always give it a go and bail if its not for you.

What we provide:

Participants will be provided with a cue sheet and a GPS file for the route. There will be lead and sweep riders, as well as a SAG wagon with bike repair supplies and seats for truly stranded cyclists. However, participants are expected to be largely self-sufficient for navigation and basic bike repair (i.e. flats). The course will not be marked. Riding with a buddy is highly encouraged.

Simple breakfast and dinner will be provided in camp, and there will be a lunch stop mid route both days. Stores where food and water may be found will also be marked on the map.

Camping gear will be transported by van to the camping location each night. Enjoy all the perks of bike camping without the weight! We will also provide bus transportation for you and your bike back to MIT on Monday 10/10.

Costs & Fundraising:

Student: $75 trip fee + $100 fundraising minimum Non-student: $125 trip fee + $150 fundraising minimum

Information on how to pay your trip fee and fundraising details will be provided after the lottery runs.

Required Gear:

• A functioning road, gravel or touring bike
• Basic bike repair kit (pump, tube, tire levers, multitool)
• Robust phone handlebar mount or dedicated cycling GPS for navigation
• Cue sheet (provided)
• Riding clothes (bike shorts strongly recommended)
• Sleeping bag, sleeping pad, and tent (can be rented from MITOC)
• Reusable cup, bowl and utensil
• Warm layers
• Rain gear
• Headlamp
• Bike lights
• Water
• Extra snacks
• Phone
• Sunscreen