BIG RED GRAVEL RUN

Nestled in the Rouge River Valley between Ottawa and Montreal, the Big Red Gravel Run keeps things simple. There are two courses (60 and 130 km), a post-ride barbecue, party and camping. The rules are few and succinct. Most notable are don’t be lame, offer help to those who need it and have fun. Come prepared for a self-sufficient ride. You’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the Rouge Valley as its river flows to meet the Ottawa River. There’s no need to race. Do keep an eye out for the mysterious Bisso, a folk creature that lives in the river, only coming to the surface to hunt. ( Aug. 13, bigredgravelrun.com)