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Take the M-22 Challenge - Run, Bike & Paddle Every June

June 2025

The M-22 Challenge held in mid-June near Glen Arbor, is a challenging multi-sport event. Anyone, from first time racers to professional competitors are welcome to compete but the event will definitely challenge all athletes.

Registration is typically $195 per participant which includes an event shirt, event bag, and the use of a timing chip. The event is limited to the first 900 registered participants.

M-22 Challenge Run

The course covers 22 miles and begins at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore park in the Little Glen Lake Picnic Area. Part of the run involves a 100-yard Dune Climb with half of the 2.5 mile run occurring on pavement.

M-22 Challenge Bike Ride

The next portion is a 17 mile bike ride around Big and Little Glen lakes. Bicyclists go through downtown Glen Arbor, along sections of the Crystal River and M-22 and Inspiration Point.

M-22 Challenge Paddle

The final portion is the paddle and is, by far, the most challenging. Using only one paddle to power their chosen craft, participants paddle out and back into Little Glen Lake for 2.5 miles.

Directions to Empire, home of the M-22 Challenge

Empire is approximately 24 miles west of Traverse City at the junction of M-72 and M-22. Click the larger view of the map for detailed directions

Stay tuned for information on the 2025 M-22 Challenge!

For more information, please contact the race organizers at m22challenge.com

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