Prepare your gear and get ready for an exciting journey, because the eagerly anticipated route for the 53rd RAGBRAI (Register’s Annual Great Bicycle Ride Across Iowa) has just been announced! This year, the theme is aptly named "Iowa Classic," and it features a logo showcasing a water tower—an iconic symbol that cyclists look for as they pedal towards each town. Organizers have designed next year’s ride to commemorate two significant milestones: the 250th anniversary of the United States and Iowa’s own 180th anniversary.
Set to take place from July 19 to July 25, 2026, this week-long adventure promises to be memorable. The route begins in Onawa and concludes in Dubuque, spanning a total distance of 391 miles. Notably, this year's journey is the shortest in RAGBRAI history and ranks as the 10th-hilliest, involving a total climb of 16,027 feet.
To give you a clearer picture, let’s break down the daily segments:
- Sunday, July 19: Onawa to Harlan – 58.5 miles with a climb of 3,465 feet.
- Monday, July 20: Harlan to Guthrie Center – 53.9 miles with a climb of 3,554 feet.
- Tuesday, July 21: Guthrie Center to Boone – 59.5 miles with a climb of 1,503 feet.
- Wednesday, July 22: Boone to Marshalltown – 62.2 miles with a climb of 1,563 feet.
- Thursday, July 23: Marshalltown to Independence – 81.4 miles with a climb of 2,713 feet.
- Friday, July 24: Independence to Dyersville – 42.2 miles with a climb of 1,441 feet.
- Saturday, July 25: Dyersville to Dubuque – 33.7 miles with a climb of 1,788 feet.
Looking back at previous years, last year’s ride covered 406 miles from Orange City to Guttenberg, which was noted as the second-shortest route in RAGBRAI’s extensive history.
As we gear up for this classic ride, let’s not forget the unique experiences that come along with it—like the quirky headgear some riders wear, the beloved daily traditions, and even the heartwarming weddings that take place along the way. All these elements contribute to the vibrant tapestry of RAGBRAI.
So, are you excited to tackle this year’s route? What part of the ride do you think will challenge you the most? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
