Century Rides in Iowa
The comprehensive 2026 directory of 100-mile centuries, metric centuries (62 miles), and endurance cycling tours across Iowa.
Cycling in Iowa: Terrain & Route Overview
Iowa's cycling identity is legendary, thanks in large part to RAGBRAI—the world's oldest and largest recreational bicycle touring event. However, beyond that iconic week in July, Iowa is an absolute paradise for dedicated century riders from May through October. Contrary to the myth that the Midwest is entirely flat, Iowa features continuous, rhythm-testing rollers that accumulate surprisingly serious elevation gain over 100 miles. In northeast Iowa's Driftless Area, towering bluffs over the Mississippi River provide alpine-grade grades and breathtaking panoramic overlooks. The state's paved county highways are smooth and uncrowded, and small-town bakeries, church dinners, and friendly locals ensure you never run low on energy. For pure heartland cycling joy and community spirit, Iowa has few equals.
Terrain Characteristics: Rolling glacial hills, dramatic Mississippi and Missouri river bluffs, and endless rural blacktop.
Riding Season & Weather: May through October.
📍 Iowa Century Rides Map
4 Plotted EventsCore4 Gravel / Iowa Gravel Century
AugustPremier gravel challenge traversing the steep gravel rollers, B-roads, and farm ridges of eastern Iowa.
RAGBRAI
JulyRAGBRAI is a multi-day bicycle tour and festival that takes place in Iowa, showcasing the state's hospitality and driving local economic and tourism growth.
Stiff Ride
JuneA 38-mile bike ride with an optional 6-mile extension, known for its party atmosphere and beer stops along the route.
Tour de Madison County (Covered Bridges Century)
OctoberScenic autumn tour visiting the historic covered bridges and limestone ridge roads made famous across Madison County.