Last updated April 4, 2024
Nestled in the serene landscapes of St. Charles, Iowa, the Spotted Horse Gravel Ultra is more than a race; it is an odyssey through the picturesque terrains and unadulterated beauty of South Central Iowa. It is produced by Relentless Events and is considered one of the Best Gravel Cycling Events in the Midwest by our team at Strambecco.
What makes this event truly unique is its self-supported nature, challenging participants not just physically but also mentally, inviting them to navigate through rural gravel and dirt roads, starting and finishing at the scenic Madison County Winery. Participants can choose from three distinct distances—35, 70, or the ultra 175 miles. Whether a novice to the ultra-distance or a seasoned pro, this race provides an eclectic mix of terrains and conditions, from buff dirt roads under clear skies to challenging gravel in the crisp fall rain, offering a spectrum of challenges and memories in the making. This is a limited-field event, and registration typically opens in early May.
Event & Course Info
Each Spotted Horse Gravel Ultra course (175, 70, or the new 35-mile) unravels the hills, small towns, antiquated barns, fragile bridges, and the mesmerizing B roads of the region. Although course routes are not shared publicly, the course profile is expected to be hilly and could encompass potential hike-a-bike sections. Riders should be prepared for a myriad of conditions and terrains, including B-Roads and rickety bridges, with some parts of the course being remote with limited cell service and others traversing through residential farmlands.
The Spotted Horse 175 starts at 6 AM, while the other two courses kick off at 10 AM – 175 riders must hit the finish line by 11:30 pm.
As mentioned, the event is entirely self-supported; thus, support crews and sag services are not allowed. The routes aren’t marked, so a GPS device with mapping capabilities is highly recommended. Participants are responsible for downloading course maps, cue sheets, and/or GPX files prior to race day, as they serve as the sole means of navigation. The Spotted Horse Ultra does not allow any support on the course, so rest stops and aid come from roadside convenience store stops. Riders must be self-reliant, carrying necessary food, water, equipment, or money for convenience stores situated at communicated distances. There are checkpoints along the route where participants must check in, and caching supplies along the course is strictly prohibited. The Spotted Horse Gravel Ultra is long and tough with a heavy dash of minimalism. A race for the purists who love to suffer on gravel!
All riders are required to have at least one clear front headlight and one red taillight for the duration of the event and must wear something reflective on their bodies. This ensures their visibility and safety throughout the journey.
Area Accommodations & Things to Do
Winterset is the closest town to the event, just 15 minutes from the start line of Spotted Horse Gravel Ultra and there are two recommended hotels including Covered Bridge Inn and Cobblestone Winterset. Alternatively, Des Moines is within a 30 minute drive and has many hotels, however it’s suggested to look at hotels on Mills Civic Parkway, just off I-35, in West Des Moines.
For those who appreciate the simplicity of sleeping under the stars, there is limited tent camping available at the event venue site, Madison County Winery, as well as other campground options that could support RVs or larger vehicles at Pammel State Park or Winterset City Park Campground.
There are also vacation rentals in the surrounding area that would suit a variety of needs, from beautiful stone houses to farm stays on bison ranches.
The culinary scene in Des Moines, IA, is dynamic and diverse, hosting a myriad of restaurants, cafés, and eateries that offer a blend of traditional Midwestern fare, international cuisine, gourmet creations, and street food delights. From upscale dining establishments to charming local joints, food lovers in Des Moines can embark on a flavorful journey, exploring innovative culinary arts, savory classics, sweet treats, and a variety of beverages that reflect the city’s vibrant food culture. If you venture into the city, be sure to check out Eater’s list of best restaurants in Des Moines.
St. Charles and the West Des Moines area, with its rustic charm and serene landscapes, blossoms into a haven for outdoor enthusiasts in October, the air imbued with the crisp fragrance of fall and the lands painted in a palette of warm hues.
Raccoon River Park, with its expansive landscapes and diverse terrains, is a sanctuary for trail runners in West Des Moines. The park’s extensive trail system offers varying levels of difficulty, making it suitable for runners of all abilities. Whether it’s a serene jog by the Blue Heron Lake or a challenging run through the wooded trails, Raccoon River Park provides a harmonious blend of nature’s tranquility and the invigorating essence of trail running.
Jordan Creek Town Center is not just a hub for shopping and entertainment but also a gateway to some of the most scenic and enjoyable biking trails in West Des Moines. The trails are well-maintained and marked, catering to bikers of all experience levels. Whether it’s a leisurely ride enjoying the autumnal panorama or a vigorous cycling workout, the trails around Jordan Creek Town Center promise a fulfilling and delightful biking experience.
Finally, the serene waters of the Raccoon River invite water sports enthusiasts for an unforgettable kayaking experience. The gentle currents, coupled with the reflections of the autumn skies and the rustling leaves, create a magical ambiance, perfect for a soothing paddle journey. Outdoor athletes can rent a kayak from local providers and glide through the water, feeling the rhythm of the river and the whispers of the fall winds.
Related Events
The event organizer, Relentless Events, is deeply ingrained within the local and cycling community and is the driving force behind numerous revered local gravel events, including Iowa Wind and Rock, Spotted Horse Gravel Ultra, Iowa Gravel Classic, and the latest addition, The Tour of Central Iowa.
For multi-sport endurance athletes looking for other events in the state of Iowa and the broader Midwest region, be sure to check out RAGBRAI by Ventures Endurance Events, as well as our full list of Strambecco Best in Class road, mountain biking, and trail running events.
