 Park Rapids didn't have the sunniest weather over the weekend, but that didn't stop a few people from hitting the trails for the annual Minnesota Bike Opener. The Bike Opener celebrates the opening of the bike season. It's traditionally held this Saturday after the State Fishing Opener. This was the fourth year in a row. It was held at Heartland Park. Bicyclists were allowed to come and go as they pleased and had the opportunity to get a tune-up and trail safety information as well. Kids also got free helmets. We had some great sponsors this year that helped us out with some free bikes from CHI St. Joseph's. Itasca Tours here. They donated some helmets. We have a lot of great things. Northern Cycles here helping us out with some tune-ups and just finding out all about bikes and what you need and find out about etiquette on the trails. We have a lot of different people that participated. Suites made some of our little energy snacks so people could enjoy those. One reason Park Rapids held this event is because it is home to one of the state's biggest trail systems. Park Rapids also hosted the first rail to trail. Officials with the Itasca Tour Outdoor Activities Group say bike culture in Park Rapids continues to grow and each year the Bike Opener gets a little bigger. The great thing about biking is anyone can do it. You can do it. Any age, if you've got injuries, biking is a good way too if you've got a bad back or bad knees. Biking is just a great way to exercise. It can be as rigorous as you want or it can just be a nice stroll, especially through our areas and our trails. It's just a nice way to get some exercise. And in addition to those free helmets they gave away, they also gave away two free bikes at the event. If you enjoyed this segment of Lakeland News, please consider making a tax deductible contribution to Lakeland PBS.