We’ve just added a new and exciting map for the Twin Cities metro area. Titled “Northstar, You, Your Bike”, this 9 page brochure/pdf file opens up the world of bikes and commuter rail. Hop on the train, ride to another station and begin exploring. The options are endless. Here are just a few:

• Looking for a casual ride and plenty of relaxation? Try the Rum River Loop from the Anoka Station. The trail starts across the street from the station, follows the Rum River north to Bunker Hills Rd, then crosses the river and drops into Rivers Bend. The round trip is about 12 miles, allowing plenty of time for lounging along the river or buying ice cream and hanging out in downtown Anoka.
• How about an overnight trip that isn’t more than 20 miles each way? Take Northstar to the Big Lake Station, ride to Lake Maria State Park, then spend the night at one of their walk-in campsites or camper cabins. Return the next day and pick up the train.
• Feeling strong? Take the train out to any station and ride all the way back to Minneapolis. The longest distance, from the Big Lake Station, is 55 miles. We’ve got two different routes mapped for you.

We’ve mapped out big loops and small ones, routes that follow country roads and routes that take in local trails. The brochure includes train fares, first arrivals and last departures, destinations, points of interest and local riding conditions. As a matter-of-fact, there is so much information, including our unbeatable maps, that each pdf is too large to download from the site. We’ll send it to your email address using YouSendIt. Check out the jpgs on the product page for samples of the route maps and information available for each station.

This is the perfect antidote to riding the same old loops again this weekend, and you don’t have to drive to get there, either!

Printed brochures are available on standard paper or tear and water resistant paper. Choose the delivery style that best fits your needs: Electronic delivery or hard copy.

This map covers the entire SE corner of Wisconsin from the state line to Port Washington and from Lake Michigan to the south Kettle Moraine State Forest. Detailed maps on the reverse side cover Milwaukee, Racine, Kenosha and Waukesha. All routes have been field tested and form a network of scenic, bike friendly roads. You can pick up copies at your local bike dealer or buy it right here. For more information go to the Milwaukee page.

Ride your bike anywhere in this bicycle friendly city, then leave town and explore the drop dead beauty of Dane County. It’s all here on one map. Updated in 2008, the 2nd edition is printed on tear and water resistant paper, so it will hold up to a sweaty jersey pocket or the wear and tear of a handlebar bag. Complete network of bicycle friendly roads with extra detail for the city. Buy it at your local bike shop or right here. For more information, click here.

The newest edition, number 9, is printed on tear and water resistant paper so it will hold up to sweaty jersey pockets, endless folding and the wear and tear of carrying it in your panniers. Stop by your local bike dealer to pick up a copy or order it here. For more information check the Twin Cities page.