April has arrived, and with it comes the true awakening of Michigan's outdoor adventure scene. The snow has retreated, trails are drying out, and the cycling and running communities are buzzing with anticipation for the season ahead.

This month, our spotlight turns to the unsung heroes of our regional trail systems. Our conversation with Dan Fryer, President of the West Michigan Mountain Bike Alliance (WMMBA), opened our eyes to the incredible volunteer effort that goes into maintaining the trails we often take for granted. As we ride the flowing berms of The Dragon or navigate the technical sections at Yankee Springs, it's easy to forget the countless hours of trail work that make these experiences possible.

I encourage you to read our full feature on Dan and WMMBA's mission. It's a powerful reminder that our outdoor recreation spaces don't maintain themselves – they thrive through community investment, both financial and physical. Next time you're out enjoying West Michigan's singletrack, consider how you might contribute, whether through membership, volunteer hours, or simply respecting trail conditions.

Speaking of trails, April's calendar is packed with events that showcase Michigan's diverse terrain. From the historic Yankee Springs Time Trial celebrating its 35th year to the debut of innovative events like the Shelley Irwin Fun Run, there's something for every type of outdoor enthusiast. The Rivertown Races return to Millennium Park, while gravel enthusiasts have the Waterloo G+G to look forward to.

As we venture into May, the calendar only gets busier with iconic events like the Amway River Bank Run, the Girls on the Run celebrations, and the beautiful Bayshore Marathon in Traverse City (voted "Best Half Marathon" and "Most Scenic" in our 2024 Fly Awards).

We'll be there with cameras in hand to capture your achievements, your struggles, and most importantly, your joy in being active in Michigan's beautiful outdoor spaces.

Looking back at March's events – from the perfect weather at the White Pine Thaw to the record-breaking attendance at Melting Mann – reinforces what we already know: Michigan's outdoor community is special, and we're privileged to document it.

Here's to the trails, the tales, and all the adventures that lie ahead this season.

In racing, 𓆦 stellafly

TRAIL TALES: A CONVERSATION WITH WMMBA'S DAN FRYER

When StellaFly reached out to Dan Fryer, President of the West Michigan Mountain Bike Alliance (WMMBA), we knew we were connecting with someone at the heart of the region's trail community. What we didn't fully appreciate was the scale of dedication driving this entirely volunteer-run organization.

"People see the trails, but they don't always see what goes into maintaining them," Fryer explained as we settled into our conversation at a local coffee shop near one of WMMBA's sixteen trail systems. The morning sun filtered through the windows, illuminating his passionate gestures as he described the organization's mission to improve trails and build community across West Michigan.

Behind every mile of singletrack—and WMMBA supports over 100 miles of natural surface trails—there's a story of volunteer hours, carefully allocated membership dues, and strategic community partnerships. From the technical challenges at Yankee Springs to the flowing berms of The Dragon, maintaining these trails requires coordination with nine different land managers and countless hours of volunteer sweat equity.

As cycling enthusiasts ourselves, we've ridden many of the region's most beloved trails—Luton Park, Merrell Trail, The Underground, Wahlfield Park, Richmond Park—without fully understanding the infrastructure of care that maintains these outdoor recreational destinations. Fryer changed our perspective, offering a glimpse into the invisible work that keeps West Michigan's dirt paths rideable, sustainable, and continually evolving.

Read on! https://www.stellafly.com/the-future-of-mtb-trail-maintenance/

LOOK FOR OUR PHOTOGRAPHERS AT THESE UPCOMING EVENTS IN APRIL!

• April 19: The Shelley Irwin Fun Run (Walker, MI) - Register
• April 26: Rivertown Races (Walker, MI) - Register
• April 26: Waterloo G+G Gravel Race (Grass Lake, MI) - Register
• April 26: 35th Annual Yankee Spring Time Trials (Barry County, MI) - Register

OUR 2025 RACE CALENDAR:

https://www.stellafly.com/race-calendar/

The Michigan Gravel Race Series is underway. The season kicked off on March 22nd with Melting Mann, winner of the TOUGHEST RACE category in this year's FLY AWARDS! Next up: Barry Roubaix, Dirty Thirty, Hart Hills!

The Shelley Irwin Fun Run

Sat April 19, 2025

Walker, MI 49534 US



Join Shelley and the community for this fundraising event supporting WGVU Public Media. Shelley shares, "MY passion IS movement and having this opportunity to set goals and 'chase' them when it comes to fitness. Blessed with 'energizing bunny energy' for both my work at WGVU and for my fitness, I am thrilled to invite YOU to get involved through a sponsorship or attendance!"

About WGVU Public Media:

WGVU strengthens West Michigan by providing:

• In-depth, trusted local news coverage
• Educational programming for children
• Cultural programs celebrating our diverse community
• Commercial-free programming accessible to everyone

Your support helps fund local journalism, educational resources, and arts programming that showcases our region.



All are welcome to run, walk, skip, stroll or hop to the finish line. Strollers welcome!

To Register: https://runsignup.com/Race/TheShelleyIrwinFunRun

Rivertown Races

Sat April 26, 2025

Walker, MI 49534 US



Rivertown Races is a premier spring racing event in West Michigan that combines athletic challenge with community impact. Set against the scenic backdrop of Millennium Park, this event offers an ideal racing experience for participants of all skill levels, from elite athletes to first-time runners.

The course showcases the natural beauty of the area, winding through a diverse landscape of rolling terrain, wetlands, and lakes. Runners traverse a mix of roads, paved trails, and bridges, creating an engaging and varied route. The race's timing makes it perfect for athletes seeking an early-season benchmark or those training for the Amway River Bank Run, as it aligns well with typical training schedules.

Beyond the race itself, the event features a festive atmosphere with food, beverages, music, and family activities. Its location at Millennium Park provides easy access without the hassles of big-city traffic and congestion, making it especially appealing for families.

This professionally organized and timed event serves a greater purpose: all proceeds support Bridge Street Ministries' urban youth programs, allowing participants to contribute to local youth development while pursuing their athletic goals. FREE photos from Stellafly.

To Register: https://rivertownraces.com

Waterloo G+G

Sat April 26, 2025

Grass Lake, MI 49240



It's time to start planning your spring gravel race schedule, make sure to add Waterloo G+G to the calendar! 

Ride through the wilds of Lower Michigan’s largest park, where pristine forests, rolling glacial terrain, and sparkling lakes provide a breathtaking backdrop for the gravel cycling experience of a lifetime.Given Waterloo Recreational Area’s glacial history, the bike courses will vary from rolling hill climbs and swift descents to winding curves and rare straightaways. Some roads will be paved. Others may be patched. Most will be dirt and rock. Expect to get dusty. Expect to get grimy. Expect to have the time of your life!

100K: Now one loop that winds through Waterloo’s more than 20,000 acres.

50K: Condenses the best that the 100K offers into half the distance

11-mile: a little bit of everything!

Plus, don't forget to stick around for the after party! We will have Smokehouse 52 BBQ and complimentary beer to help you re-fuel after your ride. 

And Waterloo G+G is part of the I Love Gravel Racing Series.

Spots are limited. This race will sell out. Don't miss out on what will be one of your favorite race days of the year!

To Register: https://waterloogravel.com/register/

35th Annual Yankee Spring Time Trials

Sat April 26, 2025

Barry County, MI

The Deep Lake Trail runs about 11 miles of pure single track goodness through Yankee Springs Recreation Area. This trail is fast and flowing for the most part, but don't let that fool you - you'll hit some seriously technical climbs and descents that'll test your skills. Expect to navigate roots, rocks, and sandy sections throughout the entire course.

Elite riders will tackle TWO full laps of this beast, while Sport category gets ONE lap. For our Beginners, we've crafted a slightly shorter but still challenging 8-mile version that'll give you a real taste of what this trail offers.

One of the best things about Deep Lake? It's basically sand-based and drains like a champ. When other trails are closed after rain, we're usually still good to go. So don't stress if there's some precipitation in the forecast - chances are they're still racing!

For their 35th anniversary event, they'll be running the main Deep Lake section. Kids will have their races starting at 11:30 on the warm-up loop, which will remain open throughout the day for anyone wanting to spin those legs before or after the main event.

The event schedule:

Thursday April 24 5-8pm Packet Pick Up at City Built

Friday April 25 Yankee Social Ride and Bonfire 5-8pm

Saturday April 26 Yankee Springs Time Trial 8-4pm

https://yankeespringstt.org/

Hart Hills Gravel Race

Sat May 10, 2025

Hart, MI

Ready to test your ENDURANCE on one of Michigan's most EPIC cycling routes?

Hart Hills takes you through the rugged, remote countryside of Hart, MI - winding past vast asparagus fields and picturesque orchards on a mix of gravel, dirt, and paved roads that will challenge and inspire!

✅ Start/finish in downtown Hart

✅ FOUR distance options: 5mi, 13mi, 25mi, and 55mi

✅ Perfect for ALL skill levels and fitness abilities

✅ Unforgettable terrain and stunning agricultural landscapes

✅ Part of the Michigan Gravel Race Series

Whether you're a casual rider or hardcore endurance cyclist, Hart Hills has the perfect route for YOUR adventure! Register today for a cycling experience you won't forget!

To Register: https://www.harthills.com/register.html

Amway River Bank Run

Sat May 10, 2025

Grand Rapids, MI

Every year, downtown Grand Rapids comes alive for the historic Amway River Bank Run, bringing together serious athletes and casual runners in a celebration of community and fitness. The scenic route showcased the city's best views as it wound along the Grand River, while enthusiastic spectators lined the course offering encouragement at every turn.

Established in 1978, this well-organized event delivers a seamless experience from registration through the finish line. Participants not only conquered personal goals but contributed to local causes through their participation, embodying the spirit that has made this race a beloved Grand Rapids tradition for generations.

In 2024, Amway River Bank Run won the 'Best 10K' and 'Best Weird Distance' Fly Awards. You can get registered here: https://runsignup.com/Race/MI/GrandRapids/AmwayRiverBankRun

Girls on the Run Kent County

Girls on the Run Michiana

Sat May 17, 2025

Grand Rapids, MI & South Bend, IN



Girls on the Run is a national transformative program for girls in grades 3-8 that culminates in a celebratory 5K race. Unlike traditional competitive races, these events focus on personal achievement and joy rather than speed.

During the 10-12 week program, participants meet twice weekly with coaches who blend running with lessons on confidence, healthy relationships, and positive decision-making.

The 5K itself is a colorful, festive event where each girl runs with an adult buddy for support. The atmosphere is unmistakably uplifting—filled with tutus, crazy socks, team t-shirts, cheerleaders, and encouraging signs. These inclusive events welcome participants of all abilities, ensuring every girl experiences the powerful moment of crossing the finish line and realizing that with perseverance and support, she can achieve what once seemed impossible.

We are lucky to photograph two in one day! One in Grand Rapids, Michigan, with one in South Bend, Indiana on the same day.

Armed Services Marathon/Half Marathon/5K

Sun May 18, 2025

Grand Haven, MI



Experience one of Michigan's most SCENIC courses at the Armed Services race series in beautiful Grand Haven!

✅ Start and finish in Grand Haven High School Football Stadium

✅ 97% paths, just 3% quiet roads

✅ BOSTON MARATHON, NYC MARATHON & Abbott Marathon Majors QUALIFIER

Located at Grand Haven High School (17001 Ferris St, Grand Haven, MI 49417)

Don't miss your chance to race this exceptional course while honoring our armed services! Register today!

To Register: https://tinyurl.com/3y49c5t6

Shiawassee Triathlon

Sun May 18, 2025

Owosso, MI



The Shi-Tri is a Run/Paddle/Ride Triathlon in Owosso, MI along the beautiful Shiawassee River. Participants begin with a 3.5-mile run/walk from Fitness Coliseum in downtown Owosso to McCurdy Park in Corunna. From there, participants will launch their kayaks or canoes into the river and paddle 3.5 miles back to Owosso where they will then bike a ~9-mile loop along country roads.

The Shi-Tri can be completed by ANYONE; Competitive, here for fun, or as a relay! You can even rent a kayak with registration. JOIN them for the 5th Annual Shi-Tri!

To Register: www.shi-tri.com

Bayshore Marathon/Half Marathon/10K (sold out)

Sat May 24, 2025

Traverse City, MI



VOTED BEST "HALF MARATHON RACE 

& MOST SCENIC" 2024 Fly Awards

The race that runners call "a love letter to Northern Michigan" is the iconic Bayshore Half Marathon! Over Memorial Day weekend, thousands of runners will take in the breathtaking shores of East Grand Traverse Bay on a course that combines natural beauty with ideal racing conditions.

The journey for the half starts with an exhilarating challenge – a 225-foot climb in the first half mile that quickly gives way to gentle terrain alongside crystal waters and blooming cherry orchards. Recognized as one of the Midwest's fastest courses, Bayshore offers the perfect setting for your next PR or snag that BQ.

THE FINISH: Nothing compares to the final moments of Bayshore as you enter Traverse City Central High School's stadium for a dramatic 200-meter track finale that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.

We will have six photographers out there this year! We hope to see you for a weekend of scenic beauty, fast conditions, and flawless organization. If you haven't run this one, mark your calendars! This nationally-renowned event fills quickly when registration opens each December.

As part of the larger Bayshore Marathon weekend (including full marathon, 10K, and kids' marathon options), there are tickets available for the live podcast recording, No Foolin’! Lindsey Hein will host Dakotah Popehn on her podcast, I’ll Have Another and you can be there live at the beautiful City Opera House! It’s the perfect way to get last minute race tips and inspiration. Parking passes also are available. Less than 20 remain as this is written, so grab yours today!



Learn more over at BayshoreMarathon.org/registration

Bear Lake Triathlon

Sun May 25, 2025

Muskegon, MI



Located in picturesque North Muskegon, Bear Lake Triathlon is an athlete favorite featuring Sprint and Olympic Triathlon distances plus Duathlon, Relays and Aquabike, Bear Lake Tri has something for all triathletes as they get their race season underway!

To Register: https://tinyurl.com/4ppzcmd8

The White Pine Thaw Relay

Sun March 9, 2025

Comstock Park, MI 49321 US

Gorgeous weather made for a perfect day at the White Pine Thaw Marathon Relay! Runners tackled the course solo or in teams under sunny skies, with photographers capturing smiles and determination at every turn. The well-supported event featured a scenic route that left participants already planning for next year's return. 

Race photos available at: https://www.flashframe.io/search/2657/

Melting Mann Gravel Race

Sat March 22, 2025

Jones, MI



Perfect road conditions set the stage for record-breaking speeds at this year's Melting Mann gravel race. The event, winner of The Fly Awards' "Toughest Gravel Race" category, drew over 700 cyclists from eight different states and Canada - the largest participation in the event's spring race history.

Riders enthusiastically embraced the revamped course design, which offered just the right balance of challenge and flow. The post-race celebration featured generous cash prizes for top finishers, an impressive Trek Bicycle raffle, outstanding food and beverage options, and a festive atmosphere complete with fire pits. 

Our photography team was honored to capture all the action, and images are available for download at Flashframe: https://www.flashframe.io/search/2636/

Meals on Wheels Western Michigan's 4th Annual March for Meals Community Walk & 5K

Sat March 29, 2025

Walker, MI

We had perfect spring weather at this year's Meals on Wheels Western Michigan's 4th Annual March for Meals Community Walk & 5k at Secchia Meadows. With blue skies overhead, runners, walkers and fur kids of all ages gathered at Grant Pavilion before taking to the scenic course through the park's beautiful trails.

The event brought the community together in support of Meals on Wheels Western Michigan, with many sporting creative food-themed costumes. Awards were presented to top finishers in various categories as the successful fundraiser concluded, helping to provide nutritious meals and friendly check-ins for homebound seniors throughout Western Michigan.

Shout out to Race Director Lydia Underhill at Meals on Wheels Western Michigan for having us back again this year! All of the photos can be found over at Flashframe: https://www.flashframe.io/search/2662/

Lydia Vanderhill, Annual Fund Manager, Race Director, Meals on Wheels Western Michigan

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