Southeast Iowa’s Van Buren County is hosting its 37th annual Bike Van Buren this weekend, where cyclists can enjoy the landscape, the rural lifestyle and, of course, the home-baked pies. Emily Starnes, executive director of the Villages of Van Buren, says the scenery is stunning at any time of the year, but especially during the summertime. The rides begin and end both Saturday and Sunday at Keosauqua City Park and take different routes across the county each day, with stop-overs in various small communities.

The entire county only has a population of seven-thousand and the biggest town, Keosauqua, only has a thousand residents. It’s a different pace in that corner of Iowa, she says, and yes, you’ll be shifting gears.

Van Buren County residents pride themselves on laid-back living, as there are no big box stores, no chain restaurants, and no stoplights in the entire county. Historic communities include: Bentonsport, Bonaparte, Cantril, Farmington, Iowaville and Milton, and every year, the ride routes are changed up.

Walk-up registration is welcome at Keosauqua City Park on Saturday from 7 to 8:30 a-m and on Sunday from 7:30 to 8. Learn more at: villagesofvanburen.com or call 800-868-7822.