RAGBRAI (Ride Across Iowa) 2026

RAGBRAI (Ride Across Iowa) 2026

Presented by Ventures Endurance Events
Road Cycling
Sergeant Bluff, IA
Jul 18–25, 2026
Register

About This Event

Now in its 51st year, RAGBRAI stands as the longest recreational bicycle tour in the world, drawing thousands of cyclists for an eight-day journey across Iowa. This isn’t a race but a rolling celebration that showcases the genuine hospitality of small-town America.

The route typically covers around 400 miles with approximately 10,500 feet of climbing over seven days. Despite Iowa’s reputation for flatness, expect rolling hills, particularly near the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers. Daily distances range from 38 to 71 miles, making it accessible to recreational cyclists while still providing a solid endurance challenge.

What sets RAGBRAI apart is the extraordinary community atmosphere. Each overnight town transforms into a festival, with local residents opening their yards for camping, serving home-cooked meals, and creating an authentic Midwestern welcome that veterans say is unmatched in cycling events. The ride moves at a social pace, with riders stopping frequently to sample local specialties, chat with townspeople, and soak in the small-town charm.

Support is comprehensive, featuring four ambulance teams, free SAG service, and mobile bike shops offering repairs and gear along the route. The event attracts everyone from serious cyclists to families on tandems, creating a uniquely inclusive atmosphere.

Route details for 2026 will be announced at April’s Town Hall meeting. Registration typically opens in early February and fills quickly, as this bucket-list event has maintained its appeal for over five decades through its perfect blend of cycling challenge and cultural immersion.

Ventures Endurance Events

Event Organizer
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Ventures Endurance Events is a premier event production company that specializes in organizing a wide range of endurance experiences, including cycling, running, and obstacle course races. The company brings together renowned events under one roof, offering participants diverse challenges across various disciplines. Here are some of the most prominent events produced by Ventures Endurance:

  1. RAGBRAI (Ride Across Iowa)
    • Description: RAGBRAI, or the Register’s Annual Great Bicycle Ride Across Iowa, is the longest recreational bicycle tour in the world. This iconic eight-day ride covers approximately 500 miles across Iowa, featuring a mix of rolling hills and flat terrain. Celebrating its 50th year, RAGBRAI is more than just a ride—it’s an annual festival on wheels, complete with organized housing, food, entertainment, and extensive rider support.
    • Notable Aspects: Known for its vibrant community atmosphere, RAGBRAI attracts riders of all levels, offering an unforgettable experience that blends cycling with the culture and landscapes of Iowa.
  2. Ride the Rockies
    • Description: Ride the Rockies is a multi-day cycling event held annually in Colorado. Over the course of six to seven days, participants cover between 300-500 miles, with routes varying each year to showcase the stunning scenery of the Rocky Mountains. This event is not a race, but rather a challenging ride that brings together cyclists from around the world.
    • Notable Aspects: The event includes breathtaking climbs, such as the famous Trail Ridge Road, and offers a unique opportunity to explore Colorado’s diverse landscapes while enjoying the camaraderie of fellow cyclists.
  3. Tour of the Battenkill
    • Description: Often referred to as the “Queen of the Classics,” the Tour of the Battenkill is a legendary 75-mile mixed-surface race in New York. This event is known for its challenging gravel sectors and scenic routes that wind through the picturesque countryside.
    • Notable Aspects: This race is a favorite among competitive cyclists seeking a tough and rewarding experience, earning it a spot as one of the best gravel cycling events in New England.

Ventures Endurance continues to expand its portfolio, offering participants across the U.S. and beyond the chance to test their limits in some of the most beautifully challenging environments.​

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