THUNDER BAY THRILLER

REGISTRATION OPENS NOVEMBER 23RD

WE ARE BACK! Take on the challenge of the 62-mile multi-surface gravel grinder through the scenic Northeast Michigan countryside and trail system on September, 14th, 2025. New in 2025, we are excited to represent the northeast as part of the Michigan Gravel Race Series!

This fun and challenging route will take riders from rolling gravel backroads onto exciting snowmobile two-track against the picturesque Devils Lake, then weave through the woods of the Norway Ridge Pathway single/two-track system before cranking down the Alpena-Hillman Trail.

Want to ride but looking for something a bit shorter? We've got you covered! We're excited to announce the addition of the 27-mile Short Course option to race day. The 27-mile course will still take you along all the fun of Indian Reserve Rd, Devil's Lake, and the Norway Ridge Pathway. More details about the 16-mile mini course to be posted soon!

When: September 14th, 2025

Time: 62-Mile - 8:00am / 27-Mile - 8:05am / 16-Mile - 8:10am

Start/Finish - Where: Thunder Bay Jr High, Alpena, MI 49707

Each registrant will receive a shirt and swag bag from our sponsors! Swag items included TBD.

100% of all proceeds from the Thunder Bay Thriller go back towards the Rock CF Foundation: a nonprofit based out of Michigan dedicated to heightening awareness for cystic fibrosis and providing those living with CF the tools to not only survive, but thrive. Learn more about Rock CF here: https://letsrockcf.org/

  • 62-Mile Route: https://www.strava.com/routes/3141032543975373186

    27-Mile Route: https://www.strava.com/routes/3190142660854870178

    (New in 2025!) 16-Mile Route: Coming Soon!

    CLICK HERE to see a PDF of the routes with course markings, aid stations, and feature descriptions!

    Orange map for the 62, green map for the 27, blue map for 16 (16-Mile is new in 2025, updated map coming soon!). This is will match with your bib color on race-day.

    We recommend a minimum of at least around 38c tires for this route, and the entire course can be done with a gravel bike. There will be some fast rolling hero gravel, slightly rougher two-track, and maybe a lil' bit of (dare I say it?) sand from time to time on the back trails! Just enough for a good time. If you would rather hop on the mountain bike for more comfort on the trails, totally doable and a nice option in a few sections. For those local to the area, stop by our Local Bike Shop Sponsor, Harborside Cycle & Sport of Alpena for your bike-check and tire needs.

    This course will be marked, and marks/signage will be made clear in the rider's manual sent out closer to race date to all registrants. All participants are highly encouraged to download and save the Strava Route above to their GPS device to ensure route knowledge and safety. Riders are expected to follow the rules of the road based upon Michigan Bicycle Law.

    The event is based out of Alpena, MI. Known as the Sanctuary of the Great Lakes, Alpena features plenty of opportunities and experiences for outdoor, culinary, and families against the beautiful, water-centric backdrop of Lake Huron. For ideas on things to do and lodging, check out Visit Alpena: https://www.visitalpena.com/

    For those of you unable to attend, we will be hosting a virtual rider challenge on the same day as the race! Compete in a variety of challenges such as longest ride, most elevation gained, etc. More info on challenge details will be sent to virtual riders as we approach race date.

  • Awards: 62-Mile - Top 5 Men, Top 5 Women, Top Individual per age group, men/women: 11-14; 15-18; 19-29; 30-39; 40-49; 50-59; 60-69; 70 and over. Top nonbinary.

    27-Mile - Top 3 Men, Top 3 Women, Top Individual per age group, men/women: 11-14; 15-18; 19-29; 30-39; 40-49; 50-59; 60-69; 70 and over. Top nonbinary.

    NEW in 2025! 16-Mile - Top 3 Men, Top 3 Women, Top Individual per age group, men/women: 11-14; 15-18; 19-29; 30-39; 40-49; 50-59; 60-69; 70 and over. Top nonbinary.

    New this year: Clydesdale and Athena categories. If you are unfamiliar with these, please email trevor@letsrockcf.org for more information.

We are THRILLED to be a part of the Michigan Gravel Race Series in 2025! Join us in Alpena, Michigan and represent the northeast in the amazing points-based series throughout the calendar year.

THANK YOU TO OUR INCREDIBLE SPONSORS!