Last year’s Muddy Onion, April 2022. Photo by John Lazenby.
While it may never have been quite as muddy as its organizers originally envisioned, the Muddy Onion is well-established as a cyclist’s harbinger of the season to come.
Since its launch in 2013 with a clutch of about 35 riders on what in retrospect was a relatively short loop, Onion River Outdoors has grown the event to offer three optional loops through the awakening countryside — and anticipates as many as 700 riders for the 2023 event on Saturday, April 22. Moreover, the traditionally terrific aid stations and post-ride party will click up at least another notch this year.
But certain distinct traditions will be sustained. “The ride’s four aid stations will be fully stocked with nutritious sustenance to keep the “bonk” at bay, and we’ll of course be serving up the famous Onion River grilled pb and cider-jelly sandwich!” Onion River Outdoors announced in a press release.
Each of the three, well-marked loop options have been expanded, beginning with a 20-mile “Hibernator” short loop for riders just beginning their season. The middle option is the Classic 40-mile loop. New for this year’s event is the 55-mile “Sap Sucker,” designed specifically “for those of you who just couldn’t get enough of the gravelly goodness last year,” Onion River revealed.
Whichever route riders choose, they can expect to encounter plenty of farms, fields, spectacular views, cows, occasional hill climbs — and possibly some mud.
Because this year’s event is on Earth Day, Onion River has committed to keeping as much picnic cutlery out of the landfill as possible. “Each rider can purchase a reusable spork or use a BYO utensil and we’ll make a $2 donation per person to the Vermont Natural Resources Council,” the organizers announced.
The post-ride party will be held on Langdon Street featuring dishes from neighboring restaurants — Langdon Street Tavern, Enna, and Namaste Indian Nepali Kitchen. Also, the afterparty will feature local adult beverages, including a special Muddy Onion beer from Good Measure Brewing, Juicy and Rec League IPAs, a Citrus Juicy UFO from Harpoon beer, and a Soul Shifter Hard Cider from Cold Hollow Cider Mill, as well as nonalcoholic options.
Details and registration information can be found at onionriver.com/events/muddy-onion
