Best organized bike ride - Almanzo 100 - 2014 Best of MN

Not for the faint of heart, the Almanzo 100 in southeastern Minnesota delivers a spellbinding series of hills and valleys every May. The route follows backcountry gravel roads, which keep serving up vistas of idyllic bluff country. Despite the scenery, this isn't a leisurely ride: There are no support wagons and no rest stops, though locals have been known to leave hoses on their lawns. Race organizer Chris Skogen sets a for-the-love-of-cycling tone, charging nothing for the event while offering up beautifully wrought route instructions. He even thanks every rider in person at the finish line. almanzo.com