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RAGBRAI XXXVIII
July 25-31, 2010
It had been nine years since RAGBRAI started in Sioux City, so the river community pulled out all of the stops on the welcome that they gave the riders. Tens of thousands of people streamed into the historic downtown on a gorgeous summer day to check out the RAGBRAI Expo and then stayed for a night of great entertainment. Sioux City’s Rockestra kicked off the night before national recording artists Smash Mouth took the stage in front of an estimated 25,000 people.
As the riders headed out of Sioux City they were treated to blue skies, comfortable temperatures and a favorable tailwind to enjoy 68 miles of scenic vistas through western Iowa. The communities of Leeds, Kingsley, Washta and Quimby were nicely spread out to give the riders the break that needed before heading down the road. Riders traveled through a landscape of wind farms before pulling into Storm Lake.
This was Storm Lake’s fifth time hosting RAGBRAI and they didn’t miss a trick. The lake community spoiled riders with waterfront camping and great hospitality once the first day of riding was complete. A great array of entertainment was spread out over town with the night culminating with RAGBRAI favs, the Johnny Holm Band.
The Storm Lake to Algona day was to be one of the tougher stretches that the riders would face all week. With close to 1,145 feet of climb over 79 miles, this northeast trek proved to be very manageable for most as the weather was very cooperative. The day would feature maiden visits to Pocahontas and Plover, with veteran towns of Varina, West Bend and Whittemore also on the agenda. For those who felt the mileage was a bit lacking for their tastes, the optional Karras Loop to Rolfe provided some extra joy for several thousand riders.
Although Plover and Pocahontas were rookie towns, they provided some great RAGBRAI memories. The tiny town of Plover (population 95) sold hamballs to raise funds for a new church roof. The town matriarchs cooked thousands of the skewered treats and raised a whopping $10,400 to replace the roof! Pocahontas had a near miss from a tornado just days before, but still pulled off a wonderful visit complete with Indian Princesses and the Hokey Poky.
Riders pulled into Algona for the fifth time in RAGBRAI history and were treated to a 70’s theme complete with leisure suits, Farrah Fawcett hairdos and SPAM treats. Algona turned backed the clocks a few decades and the riders were ready for some fun. The Vic Ferrari Band entertained the masses into the wee hours of the morning on a perfect summer night in Iowa.
On Tuesday, RAGBRAI rolled out of Algona for a short, flat day of riding in North Central Iowa. The 59 miles were well distributed through the towns of Wesley, Hutchins, Britt and Garner. The towns each had clever themes as Wesley recreated the “Dukes of Hazzard” complete with Daisy and Boss Hogg, Britt showed why they are the “Hobo Capital” with a bowlful of mulligan stew and Garner had a full salute of our troops.
Since the temperatures were rising, Clear Lake was the perfect spot to host the sun-drenched riders. “Surf’s Up” as the beaches of Clear Lake were packed with riders frolicking along the shore of Clear Lake as the tunes from the nearby beach party and a jet ski show kept the riders entertained. The historic Surf Ballroom was open for trips down memory lane and Buddy Holly’s presence was in the house.
The evening was just getting started with a performance by national recording act Spin Doctors, followed by a terrific fireworks show over Clear Lake. Mother Nature took over from there and provided her own light show as bolts of lightning lit up the sky. By morning, the storms had past and the skies were clear again.
Wednesday was another short day, just 51 miles though Cerro Gordo and Floyd counties. Swaledale started things off as riders marveled at the mechanical contraptions of Dale Caspers. Rockwell was next up with a brand-new aquatic center and Cartersville followed with a homemade trapeze-swing that lured the masses to take a plunge into a farm pond. The riders dug the fossils in Rockford before heading to the overnight town of Charles City. It was the fourth time that “America’s Hometown” hosted the ride.
The theme for Charles City was “Chuck Rides Again”, a play on the town’s moniker. The town committee honored the Iowa State Patrol that evening as the day marked the 75th anniversary of the Patrol.
The trek from Charles City to Waterloo was the longest of the week, clocking in at just over 80 miles. On the morning ride to Clarksville, Stephen Briggs died from injuries suffered during a collision. Briggs, from nearby Waverly, was a veteran of RAGBRAI who loved riding his bike.
Parkersburg did a spectacular job as first-time RAGBRAI host. The town was devastated by a tornado in 2008 and proudly showed off the rebuilding efforts in their community. Stout, Dike and Hudson finished up the route as riders streamed into Waterloo through a tunnel of tractors that lined the entrance roads to the main campground. It had been 25 years since Waterloo last hosted RAGBRAI.
Friday morning was a dreary one as a cold, persistent rain fell on riders as they pedaled out of the Cedar Valley. Gilbertville had plenty of breakfast treats to warm the riders who took shelter from the storms. The town’s church towers over the valley and singing nuns were on hand to entertain the damp riders. By the time most riders reached Quasqueton, the sun was starting the shine again. After 62 wet miles, riders pulled into the town of Manchester.
Just a week before, the town of Manchester was underwater as the Maquoketa River reached record levels and flooded the heart of the city. Once the waters started to recede, the town worked on repairing the flood-damaged homes and businesses. The town overcame this natural disaster and put on a quite memorable night of fun for visiting riders. The town and riders were ready for a good time and The Nadas provided the tunes for the massive party that flooded the downtown with people.
The last day saw the riders heading towards their first visit to Dubuque since the early 90’s. The route ran through Earlville before rolling into some of Iowa’s world famous attractions in Dyersville. Riders had their cameras ready as they visited the Basilica of St. Francis Xavier and the Field of Dreams Movie Site. Although these attractions were well-known, perhaps the most anticipated site of the ride was Potter’s Hill. The mile and a half of winding, double-digit grade climbing became a badge of honor for some and a humbling experience for those that dismounted their bikes and walked.
The ride never really did flatten out after Potter’s Hill as riders tackled the hilly terrain for a few more miles as they arrived in Iowa’s oldest city. Dubuque had undergone an amazing revitalization of its riverfront and historic downtown since RAGBRAI last visited the historic river community back in 1993. The climatic tire-dip in the Mississippi River took place along the Mississippi Riverwalk at the American Trust River’s Edge Plaza, part of the nearly $400 million riverfront renovation that highlights Dubuque’s main attraction, the Mississippi River. It was a great way to end RAGBRAI XXXVIII.
Check out the photos from the ride with the RAGBRAI Galleries
RAGBRAI XXXIX
July 24-30, 2011
This RAGBRAI will go down as one of the hottest RAGBRAIs ever! The riders were treated to the 4Hs – Heat, Humidity, Hills… and more Heat! It will technically go down as the second warmest RAGBRAI on record, with temps topping triple digits often.
RAGBRAI started in Glenwood for the sixth time. It had been eight years since RAGBRAI last started in the Mills County town of 5,358 people. The town had been struggling with flooding from the nearby over-flowing Missouri River, but was dry by the time RAGBRAI arrived. The riders enjoyed the RAGBRAI Expo at the new Glenwood Community School until severe weather rolled in causing everyone to seek shelter. Once the storm pushed through, the downtown Glenwood came alive with great food and entertainment. One of the highlights of Glenwood was the fly over by a Stealth Bomber.
Riders headed out of Glenwood and ran smack into the Loess Hills. The day would feature nearly a mile of climb (4,946 feet of climb) over the 64 miles to the first overnight town of Atlantic. The communities of Silver City, Carson, Griswold and Lewis were nicely spread out to give the riders the break that needed before heading down the road.
Although Carson and Lewis were rookie towns, they provided some great RAGBRAI memories. Both towns created welded marvels that the riders lined up to take pictures of. Carson created a massive bicycle Ferris wheel and Lewis boasted the Largest Bicycle in America!
As riders entered Atlantic, the “Coca-Cola Capital of Iowa” treated riders to a Coke and smile at the town’s city limit. This was Atlantic’s sixth time hosting RAGBRAI and they shined. The community of 7,257 welcomed riders to their beautiful downtown and offered plenty of camping at the Cass County Fairgrounds and local schools. The entertainment that evening featured Dale Blue and the Nadas.
The Atlantic to Carroll day was to be one of the tougher stretches that the riders would face all week. With close to 4,800 feet of climb over 65 miles, this northeast trek proved to be a tough test for most riders. The day would feature maiden visits to Templeton, with veteran towns of also Elk Horn, Kimballton, Manning, Dedham and Willey on the itinerary.
The day would highlight many ethnic foods as riders rode past wooden windmills to the Danish towns of Elk Horn and then Kimballtown and a stop for German fares in Manning. Manning rolled out the barrel with a polka band and invited riders to enter the first ever RAGBRAI Corn Maze, that featured the state and the RAGBRAI route carved into many acres of corn/
The highlight of the day for many was the inaugural visit to Templeton and the home of Templeton Rye. Riders took tours of the facility and even sampled some of the “good stuff”.
Riders arrived in Carroll for the fourth time and found the town transformed into Las Vegas. The town’s theme of “Bet on Carroll, Let the Good Times Roll” was everywhere you turned in the town, especially the newly renovated downtown. It had been 17 long years since the last visit to the home of 10,000 friendly people. A great array of entertainment was held in the downtown at the depot with the night culminating with RAGBRAI favs, the Johnny Holm Band.
Tuesday’s ride would be a bit longer but much flatter than the first couple. The Carroll to Boone day was a mere 1,784 feet of climb over 70.9 miles. The challenge wasn’t the climb or distance, but the oppressive heat! The day would include stops in Lidderdale, Lanesboro, Churdan, Paton and Pilot Mound. Veteran riders were all too familiar with “Twister Hill” just outside of Pilot Mound. The hill was used in the movie “Twister” with Helen Hunt and Bill Paxton.
For those who believed the mileage was a bit short for their tastes, the optional Karras Loop to Dana provided a bonus for several thousand riders. The Loopians (not always a century!) received a free Karras Loop patch to mark their accomplishment.
Seven-time Tour de France champ Lance Armstrong joined the ride again (his fourth time on RAGBRAI) flying directly from Paris to Iowa so he could ride.
Riders chugged into Boone for the fourth time in RAGBRAI history and were treated to a train theme. Although the temps were scorching, nothing was hotter than the band Hairball that evening as they entertained the masses into the wee hours of the morning on a sweltering summer night in Iowa.
Wednesday was the shortest and flattest day of week, just 56.1 miles and 1,246 feet of climbing though Boone, Story and Polk counties. Two new towns were on the agenda as Alleman and White Oak had never hosted RAGBRAI in the 39 year history. Luther, Slater, Sheldahl, Elkhart and Bondurant were also stops on the map before heading to the overnight town of Altoona. It was the first time that “Entertainment Capital of Iowa” hosted the rider overnight, though they were a pass-through back in 1973. It was an Epic Ride to the home of Adventureland Amusement Park, Prairie Meadows Racetrack and Casino and the recently opened Bass Pro Shop.
The evening was just getting started with a performance by rock & roll legends Grand Funk Railroad. The band pounded out hits like “American Band” with temps still hovering over 100! Grand Funk was followed by an energetic show by Cowboy Mouth from New Orleans.
Thursday morning was a dreary one as a cool, persistent rain fell on riders as they pedaled out of the Altoona. Mitchellville had plenty of breakfast treats to warm the riders who took shelter from the early morning rain. By the time most riders reached Colfax, the sun was starting the shine again. Colfax treated riders to ice sculptures and ice cream treats at the old soda fountain at Weiricks Drug Store. Stops in Baxter and Rock Creek State Park followed. After 57.5 miles and 3,294 feet of climb, riders pedaled into the Jewel of the Prairie, Grinnell.
Grinnell welcomed riders onto the beautiful Grinnell College campus and into their downtown with new streets, brick-trimmed sidewalks and granite planters at every intersection in downtown that features some of Iowa’s hottest independent restaurants found nowhere else. Riders visited the Merchants National Bank building, recognized as a National Historic Landmark. Louis Sullivan’s 1914 Masterpiece is one of the eight jewel-box banks in the Midwest. Downtown entertainment featured a bag pipe band, open mic Karaoke, a laser light show and a performance by Standing Hampton.
Riders were treated to blue skies, more comfortable temperatures and little wind to enjoy 75.3 miles of scenic vistas through the Iowa River Valley. First town up was Brooklyn, the “City of Flags”. The town had hundred of flags on display including a gigantic American Flag that welcomed riders. Victor was up next and invited riders to join in a favorite activity of theirs, rolle bolle. Ladora and Marengo provided great stops before heading into the Amanas. West Amana, South Amana and Homestead were the Amana stops that displayed some of their heritage. Oxford was the last town on Friday’s voyage and the fire theme was a big hit with the riders.
After climbing 2,800 feet (most of them on the last stretch of the day) the riders pulled into Coralville. Coralville U showed that Hawkeye Spirit but also welcomed all colleges with hundreds of signs paying homage from Alabama to Yale (don’t think there are any Z colleges?). The town hosted College Spirit Day and a mascot challenge won by Herky the Hawk.
The evening was rocking into the night with concert from .38 Special. The band played their classic southern rocks hits from the 80’s. It was a fun night for all!
The final day saw the riders heading towards their first visit to Davenport in 29 years! The 64.8 mile route began by rolling through Iowa City and the campus of the University of Iowa. Riders had their cameras ready as they approached the Old Capitol. The riders then proceeded toward West Branch, the home to President Herbert Hoover. Tiny bergs of Springdale and Moscow followed before hitting Wilton and the famous Candy Kitchen. Thelma and George were delighted to see the riders enjoying their tasty treats in the historic shop.
Durant and Walcott were the last two towns of the route and they did not disappoint! Plenty of great food and entertainment fueled riders for the last stretch to the Mighty Miss.
Part of the Quad Cities, Davenport was the dip site of the inaugural bike ride that John Karras and Donald Kaul started in 1973. RAGBRAI last visited the Quad Cities’ Davenport back in 1982. The biggest challenges were the running of the monster sized BIX 7 road race was taking place and the Mississippi River was quickly rising due to huge rainfalls up-river just days before. Bringing together two colossal fitness events where tens of thousands of athletes participated in running and biking feats, plus a rising river, proved to be a challenge that the locals were ready for it!
The Davenport RAGBRAI Committee had to tweak their final route but still did a great job welcoming RAGBRAIers for the climatic tire-dip in the Mississippi River. Many RAGBRAIers and BIX participants celebrated their accomplishment together as the Street Fest was just blocks away in downtown Davenport.
It was a great way to end RAGBRAI XXXIX after454.2 miles and climbing 21,206 feet!
Check out the photos from the ride with the RAGBRAI Galleries
RAGBRAI XL
July 22-28, 2012
In the summer of 2012, RAGBRAI celebrated 40 years of riding across Iowa for RAGBRAI XL! RAGBRAI commemorated the anniversary with a 471 mile journey across the state starting in Sioux Center and finishing at the Mississippi River in Clinton. Along the way, we celebrated the 40th ride.
Like the previous year, this RAGBRAI will go down as one of the hottest RAGBRAIs ever! The riders were treated to the 4Hs – Heat, Humidity, Hills (a few!) and Headwinds making it a challenging ride for most riders. It will go down as the warmest RAGBRAI on record, with temps topping triple digits often.
RAGBRAI started in Sioux Center for the fourth time. It had been ten years since RAGBRAI last started in the Sioux County town of 7,048 people way up in the Northwest corner of our state. The riders enjoyed the RAGBRAI Expo at the new All Seasons Center parking lots in Sioux Center as the temps were rising into the 90’s. Over 20,000 guests poured through the expo that afternoon.
Riders headed out of Sioux Center that had the theme, “It’s All Downhill from Here!” towards Cherokee that Sunday morning. The day would feature just 1,583 feet of climb over the 54 miles to the first overnight town of Cherokee. The communities of Orange City, Alton, Granville and Marcus provided some great stops to give the riders the break that needed before heading down the road.
Riders entered Cherokee with a screaming downhill into the downtown. “Saddle Up and Ride” was the town’s theme that paid homage to the large local rodeo. This was Cherokee’s fifth time hosting RAGBRAI, the first since 2002. The community of 5,253 welcomed riders to their beautiful downtown and offered plenty through the community. The entertainment that evening featured the Mighty Nish Band, making their first RAGBRAI appearance to a main stage The Cherokee Symphony also entertained riders at the local high school auditorium.
The Cherokee to Lake View day proved to be a tougher stretch that the riders would face all week as the temp quickly rose to the high 90’s. An easy day on paper, the 2,000-plus feet of climb over 62 miles tested many riders and medical staffs due to the intense heat. The day would feature a maiden visit to Aurelia and returns stops to Hanover, Schaller, Nemeha and Sac City on the itinerary.
The day would highlight many interesting and quirky stops including the Hanover Village, free popcorn in Schaller and the Largest Popcorn Ball was on display in Sac City.
Riders arrived in Lake View for the fourth time and found the tiny lake town perfect to cool off with plenty of shade and a dip in the Blackhawk Lake. The town’s theme of “Take a Brake at the Lake” was exactly what riders had on their minds to cool off. A great array of entertainment was held on the lakeshore culminating with RAGBRAI favs, the Johnny Holm Band.
Tuesday’s ride would be much longer than the first couple. The Lake View to Webster City day was a mere 1,724 feet of climb over 81.2 miles. The challenge became the long distance ride coupled with the oppressive heat that reached into the hundreds! The day would include stops in Auburn, Lake City, Lohrville, Farmhamville, Gowrie, Harcourt, Dayton and Lehigh, featuring one of the best hills of the week. It was the first time hosting for Lohrville, Harcourt and Dayton.
The Karras Loop gave riders an extra challenge by adding 23 more miles with a stop in Stratford. Riders were surprised that RAGBRAI co-founder John Karras and his wife Ann were on hand to award Karras Loop patches in the tiny town of Stratford. John graciously signed autographs and posed for pictures all day long!
Riders finally arrived into Webster City for the first time in 32 years! Although the temps were still scorching, thousands came downtown to watch the Three Dog Night on a sweltering summer night in north central Iowa.
Wednesday was another long and challenging ride, with 77.1 miles and 2,018 feet of climbing though Hamilton, Story and Marshall Counties. Two new towns were on the agenda as Saint Anthony and Clemons had never hosted RAGBRAI in the 40 year history. Kamrar, Jewell, Ellsworth, Story City, Roland, McCallsburg and Zearing were also stops on the map before heading to the overnight town of Marshalltown. The temps hovered near 100 degrees for most of the afternoon, making it a tough day for most riders.
The evening was just getting started with a performance by the Little River Band before a massive storm hit the area. The entertainment was rained out and RAGBRAIers were seeking shelter from the lightening and high winds that pounded Marshalltown. Riders commented what a great job local leaders did with keeping everyone safe.
The sun did rise the next morning as soggy riders pedaled out of the Marshalltown. Garwin, Clutier and Garrison were the first few towns on the trek towards Cedar Rapids. Stops in Vinton, Shellsburg and Palo followed. After a long 84.8.5 miles and 3,576 feet of climb, riders pedaled into Cedar Rapids to complete another tough ride.
The temps started to drop and the weather was beautiful in downtown Cedar Rapids as RAGBRAI would host a large celebration on the Cedar River bridges that was a focal point of the historic flooding just a few years before. RAGBRAI recognized the eight riders and support personnel that came to Iowa each summer to join RAGBRAI. Each was recognized for the stage and rewarded with a lifetime complimentary RAGBRAI membership as a thank you!
40 Year Participants of RAGBRAI
- Rick Paulos of Cedar Rapids, IA—Rick rides with Hawkeye Bicycle Association
- Margaret Paulos of Davenport, IA—Margaret rides with Hawkeye Bicycle Association
- Scott Dickson of Newark, DE—Scott rides with Team Skunk
- Randy Dickson of Sturgeon Bay, WI—Randy rides with Team Skunk
- Carter LeBeau of Davenport, IA—Carter rides with Quad Cities Bicycle Club
- Greg Harper of Muscatine, IA—Greg’s family owns Harper’s Cycling & Fitness
- Dr. James & Nancy Jo Hopkins of Windsor Heights, IA —The couple rides with their family.
The Counting Crows were the featured entertainers and they did not disappoint! The band played in front of an estimated 25,000 happy RAGBRAIers and area friends.
Riders were treated to the best weather day of the week as blue skies and comfortable temperatures were enjoyed on a short 42 mile ride from Cedar Rapids to Anamosa. Riders were routed through the historic Czech Village of Cedar Rapids as they departed with a party on the bridges that divided the Czech Village and New Bo. Kolaches and other great Czech treats were plentiful for the RAGBRAI faithful.
The town up was Mount Vernon, home to Cornell College, that was the annual host of College Spirit Day. Many of the Iowa colleges had booth set up to welcome alumni and friends. Springville and the hamlets of Viola and Fairview provided some scenic riding and great stops before heading into the Anamosa, the hometown of the famous painter, Grant Wood.
Riders entered Anamosa under a giant replica of the state penitentiary as the town’s theme was “Ride it Like You Stole It!”. Many of the local committee members wore prison stripes or dressed like guards. The entire town carried out the theme. The downtown was packed from early afternoon until the wee hours of the night as the great weather continued.
The final day saw the riders heading towards Clinton by rolling through the scenic Iowa countryside for a 69.4 mile day with 2,890 feet of climb. The riders proceeded toward the river through the towns of Oxford Junction, Lost Nation, Elwood, Delmar, Charlotte (pronounced Shar-Lot) and Goose Lake before entering Clinton. Plenty of great food and entertainment were on-hand for riders for the last stretch to the Mighty Miss.
Clinton was ready to show off their renovated riverfront along the Mississippi River and provided a most memorable dipsite for RAGBRAIers. Clinton’s theme was “Where the Rubber Meets the River” and it was a great way to end RAGBRAI XL after 471 miles!
Check out the photos from the ride with the RAGBRAI Galleries
RAGBRAI XLI
July 21 – 27, 2013
Council Bluffs served as the first overnight community on RAGBRAI XLI, with the Mid-America Center serving as main hub of activities. Council Bluffs has hosted RAGBRAI five other times, most recently in 2009. Their theme for 2013 was “Wild Ride for Your Hide, Sizzle in Your Seat”
Tom Hanafan River’s Edge Park on the Missouri River was the dip site location and boasted a “kiss the pig” photo opportunity.
Council Bluffs provided some great entertainment to kick-off RAGBRAI. The entertainment was held in the parking lots of the Mid America Center, the same place as the RAGBRAI Expo. The Rumbles began entertaining at 2pm, Hi-Fi Hangover at 5pm, and on the main stage at 8pm, Better Than Ezra wowed the riders, support personnel, and volunteers.
Mileage for the first day out was 54.8, with 2,476 feet of climb. The ride traveled through mostly rolling hills, and ended along the Western Skies Scenic Byway. The 100 Block of Broadway downtown Council Bluffs served as the first pass-through town for the day with many offerings for breakfast. Weston is a village about 13 miles out of Council Bluffs. Underwood was the next stop and another stop for breakfast. Just 5.4 miles down the road lies the town of Neola, and your first glimpse of the town was likely the steeple of St. Patrick’s Church, which can be seen for miles. The town of 845 is nestled on the side of a hill, and in fact, the name “Neola” comes from the Ioway word meaning “lookout.” The towns of Minden, Shelby and Tennant made up the rest of the route for day 1.
Harlan was the overnight town, and riders were encouraged to take a “Pit Stop in Harlan!” This town of 5,106 people last served as host in 2008. Headlining the entertainment for Harlan was the Mighty Nish Band – four best friends playing together since 1982.
Day 2 was the toughest of the week at 83.0 miles (plus an additional 24 if you decided to do the Karras Loop) with 4,239 feet of climb. The route featured lots of rollers, too many to count, and one named hill – Mockingbird Hill just after Springbrook State Park.
After riding 14.5 miles, the first stop of the morning was the Danish village of Kimballton. Home to 342 people, residents of Kimballton have always stayed close to their Danish heritage, so close that in 1978 they installed a full-size replica of the Little Mermaid statue in Copenhagen’s Harbor. If you chose to ride the Karras Loop, you traveled through the Danish village of Elk Horn.
After Kimballton there was Hamlin, then Guthrie Center, Springbrook State Park, Yale, a quick stop at Washington Township, then on into Perry where the theme was ‘Nothin’ But A Good Time’! Perry last hosted RAGBRAI in 2001.
Perry had just celebrated the opening of the North Loop of the Raccoon River Valley Trail, creating a 72 mile loop trail. Hopefully you had a chance to visit the historic Hotel Pattee in downtown Perry. This recently renovated hotel serves as a unique reminder of the millions of people who came from all over the world to build the local area. Each room and suite is individually decorated to tell its own story. Unfortunately, the festivities that evening were interrupted by a big storm that rolled through. Hairball was all set to go on stage when the winds picked up and the rains came. The town did a great job keeping everyone safe.
It had been 16 years since RAGBRAI last visited, and Tuesday’s ride into Des Moines was a nice reprieve after the hard ride into Perry and the storms that rolled through. Just 49.9 miles and 1,308 feet of climb through the towns of Minburn, Dallas Center, Van Meter and the Historic Valley Junction in West Des Moines. Camping was all in Waterworks Park, and the Principal River Walk was the site of the RAGBRAI Event Village. Everclear, Live, Filter and Sponge provided the entertainment for the thousands that covered the bridges over the Des Moines River. Des Moines was indeed ‘Even Better in Spandex’.
On the ride out of Des Moines the next morning, the route took riders up a steep hill past the Iowa State Capitol, a great photo op before heading to the Iowa State Fairgrounds. This was a great start to Wednesday’s 49.9 mile ride into Knoxville. Riders were met with some great rolling hills on the way through Pleasant Hill, Adelphi, Christmas in July in Runnells, and into Monroe. A total of 2,920 feet of climb for the day. On the way from Monroe into Knoxville, the riders got their first view of Lake Red Rock just outside of Knoxville.
Knoxville last hosted in 2000, and was ready to show riders a ‘Dam Good Time’. Marion County Park provided some great camping. The local committee set up multiple smaller stages around the downtown area, as well as the main stage on the square, which gave riders lots of opportunities for entertainment.
The ride from Knoxville to Oskaloosa was another short but hilly day with 52 total miles and 2,808 feet of climb. The morning highlight was crossing the Red Rock Dam on the way into Pella. The route took us through the towns of Bussey and Beacon before reaching Osky. The town last hosted in 2003, and the theme this year was ‘Ride Hard – Dance Harder’. Oskaloosa’s city band was first organized in 1864 and plays in the town square every Thursday evening. We were lucky enough to hit town on just the right day!
Day 6 from Oskaloosa to Fairfield was dubbed the easiest day of the week (on paper of course), with just 52 miles and 1,222 feet of climb. Cedar and Fremont were the first two towns of the day. Hedrick, unincorporated Martinsburg and Packwood finished out the route to Fairfield, which hasn’t had a chance to welcome riders since 1997. Fairfield is home to the Maharishi University of Management where Transcendental Meditation is practiced daily.
The final ride for the week took us 63 miles and 2,427 feet of climb into Fort Madison. Before reaching the river, however, the ride went through Birmingham, Keosauqua, Bentonsport and Bonaparte along the Des Moines River (resulting in some great climbs for the day). The final pass-through town of the week was West Point. Riverview Park was the site of the finish in Fort Madison, with a theme of ‘Bikes, Burgers & Paradise – The Florida of Iowa’. Tire dipping took place just behind the Fort Madison Historic Site for a beautiful ending of the 406 mile journey across Iowa.
RAGBRAI XLII
July 20 – 26, 2014
Rock Valley served as the starting point for RAGBRAI XLII. Just a few weeks before the start of RAGBRAI, the town was hit with major flooding. The main campgrounds and the expo site were submerged under several feet of water. Because of the tremendous town spirit, and with the help of several nearby communities (and folks from all over the state), Rock Valley served up one of the best send-offs we’ve ever witnessed on RAGBRAI. This was the first time hosting RAGBRAI, and riders can’t wait until we return to Rock Valley for another ‘Groundbreaking Ride’!
The week started with a gradual climb out of Rock Valley heading to Okoboji. Pass-through towns on Day 1 included Hull, Boyden (both for the first time), Sheldon, Melvin and May City. Totals for the day were 69.2 miles with 1,771 feet of climb. The weather was very cooperative for the second year in a row, and the riders felt blessed.
Okoboji’s theme was ‘Ride The Chain’ of the Iowa Great Lakes, and everyone enjoyed the hospitality of the first-time hosts. Arnold’s Park Amusement Park served as the primary location for entertainment, with Hairball as the main act. Visitors got a feel for what a busy weekend looks like in Okoboji, and the locals enjoyed playing host to thousands of cyclists.
Day 2 was a comfortable 40.8 miles and 1,078 feet of climb, and believe it or not wasn’t the easiest day of the week. Two pass-through towns, Terril and Graettinger greeted riders on their way to Emmetsburg. This was the fourth time hosting RAGBRAI for the town of Emmetsburg, the last time in 2002 for the 30th Anniversary ride. ‘Get Lucky in Emmetsburg’ was the theme this year, and the Irish heritage of the town came through in the festivities and town decorations.
Tuesday’s ride from Emmetsburg to Forest City was the most difficult with 79.7 miles (an additional 25 miles for the Karras Loop) and 1,333 feet of climb. Bancroft (home to RAGBRAI legend Mr Pork Chop) was the meeting town for the day. Other pass-through towns included Ringsted, Burt and Lone Rock on the Loop, Titonka, Gruis Recrational Center, and Crystal Lake.
Forest City, home to Winnebago Industries and Waldorf College, last hosted RAGBRAI in 2002. The town theme was ‘RV There Yet?’ For those who wanted a night indoors, the dorm rooms of the college were made available.
The next day will go down in RAGBRAI history as the second shortest day ever with 38.5 miles and 695 feet of climb. Riders took advantage of the short day by spending extra time in the pass-through towns of Ventura and Clear Lake. A RAGBRAI wedding in Clear Lake was one of many highlights of the day. The Surf Ballroom (site of the final concert for the Winter Dance Party tour) is in Clear Lake.
It’s been 29 years since the ride stopped in Mason City, and the town provided the ‘Best Hump Day Ever’ to celebrate. Bret Michaels and Warrant headlined a night of great entertainment, and the downtown square was packed with visitors. Mason City is home to Meredith Willson (of The Music Man fame) as well as the Park Inn Hotel and Stockman House, both designed by famed architect Frank Lloyd Wright.
From Mason City, the ride made its way to Waverly via Nora Springs, Rockford, Marble Rock, Greene, Packard and Clarksville. Another classic RAGBRAI day of 65.8 miles and 1,743 feet of climb. Waverly is home to the Wartburg Knights, and the campus served as the main campground. ‘It’s Only Right To Go All Knight’ was the theme for this college town. RAGBRAI last visited Waverly in 1999. As the crowds gathered for the entertainment downtown, clouds threatened to bring rain. But the RAGBRAI gods were pleased and kept the rains away. At least until the following morning.
Riders woke up on Friday to rain, wind and cold temperatures. The first pass-through town of Tripoli did all they could to keep up with the demand for hot chocolate and extra blankets to fight off the chill. The sun finally decided to make an appearance later in the morning, and the rest of the day was manageable. The 67.4 miles and 1,623 feet of climb into Independence made stops in Bremer Station, the previously mentioned Tripoli (pronounced Trip-OH-La), Sumner, Westgate, Oelwein and Otterville. It had been 7 years since RAGBRAI last stopped in Independence, and for some locals it seemed like only yesterday.
The final stage of the ride was 67.5 miles and 3,073 feet of climb through some of the best scenery in Iowa. Rolling hills, Amish farms, and terrific towns of Winthrop, Lamont, Strawberry Point, Edgewood, Elkport and Garber greeted riders on their way to Guttenberg. Riders last dipped their tires in the Mississippi River in this town back in 2005. The weather again was ideal as riders finished up another great week of riding.
RAGBRAI XLIII
July 19-25, 2015
Sioux City served as the first overnight community on RAGBRAI XLIII, with the Tyson Event Center serving as main hub of activities. Sioux City has hosted RAGBRAI six other times, most recently in 2010. Their theme for 2015 was “Party Like It’s 1973” a homage to hosting the first RAGBRAI in 1973
Sioux City provided some great entertainment to kick-off RAGBRAI. The entertainment was held in the parking lots of the Tyson Event Center, the same place as the RAGBRAI Expo. Bands played throughout the day, but the crowd was awaiting the headliner, Huey Lewis and the News!
Mileage for the first day out was a tough 76 miles with 3,941 feet of climb. The ride traveled through mostly rolling hills of Western Iowa as the riders wound their way through Sioux City to the neighborhood of Leeds. Riders then journeyed through the towns of Kingsley, Washta and Quimby before arriving in the hamlet of Hanover. Hanover has also been a popular stop that brings riders back in time. The last jaunt was an eleven mile trip that took in the beauty of Storm Lake.
The theme for Storm Lake was give our shores a spin. The food and entertainment for Storm Lake was lakeside, allowing the riders to enjoy the amazing views of Storm Lake.
Day 2 was easier at 68.7 miles (plus an additional 17 if you decided to do the Gravel Loop to Pomeroy) with just 1,308 feet of climb. Stops along the way included Newell, Fonda, Manson and Clare. These were towns that haven’t hosted RAGBRAI in decades, so they were excited! The Gravel Loop visited Pomeroy (home of Byron’s) and it was our first visit to the little town in RAGBRAI history.
After a solid day or riding, RAGBRAIers pulled into Fort Dodge. This completed the original leg of the 1973 route visiting Sioux City, Storm Lake and Fort Dodge. Fort Dodge’s theme was “Were Going Places” and the town had a Dr. Suess-like feel. This was the first return to Fort Dodge since 2004. The Spazmatics were the headliner and local band Sacy Jack opened for the fun 80’s band.
It had been 18 years since RAGBRAI last visited Eldora and riders were looking forward to this small town. The route was 72.9 miles and 1,325 feet of climb through the towns of Duncombe, Webster City, the Boondocks, Williams, Alden, Buckeye & Radcliffe if riders decided to tackle the Karras Loop.
The most memorable part of the day was crossing a temporary gravel made bridge in which riders had to walk their bikes up and down a dry river bed. Although it created a traffic jam, it created some lasting memories.
The town of Eldora had a theme, “A Wheely Big Deal” which was a play on the fact that Eldora was indeed the smallest of all the RAGBRAI overnight towns. Their square was adorned with a large ferris wheel, hundreds of vendors and thousands of happy cyclists. The Johnny Holm Band returned to RAGBRAI as the evening’s entertainment and didn’t disappoint.
The ride from Eldora to Cedar Falls was another fun day with 58.4 total miles and 1,644 feet of climb. The route visited many towns along the Iowa River watershed creating a few good ups and down and plenty of good scenery. The route took us through the towns of Steamboat Rock, Cleves, Ackley, Austinville, Aplington, Parkersburg and New Hartford for the first time before reaching Cedar Falls
The town of Cedar Falls last hosted in 2007, and the theme this year was ‘It’s All Down Hill From Here’ references the route “down” (we are heading south) from Cedar Falls to Hiawatha to Coralville. Cedar Falls is home to the University of Northern Iowa Panthers. The main campground and entertainment was at the UNI Dome on the campus of UNI.
Bob Dorr and the Blue Band was one of the opening bands to entertain, but RAGBRAI favorite Hairball was the evening’s headliner and they rocked an enormous crowd on Wednesday night.
Thursday’s route to Hiawatha was no quite all downhill as riders traveled over 70 miles and climbed 2,377 feet. Riders visited the towns of Hudson, LaPorte City, Mount Auburn, Vinton, Shellsburg and Palo on the way to Hiawatha.
Hiawatha’s theme was “Throwback Thursday” and the town took us back in time with the entertainment of Dennis DeYoung and the music of Styx. DeYoung had the crowd singing along to every song on a beautiful Iowa night. The Pork Tornadoes played to the late night crowd that was asking for more.
Friday was College Spirit Day and riders were wearing their school colors with pride. The ride was 65.6 miles and just under 3,000 feet of climb as they headed to Coralville and the Iowa River Landing. Riders visited the towns of Whittier, Springville, Mount Vernon, Lisbon and Solon. We also had special stops at Sutliff Cider and crossed the Coralville Dam. The hills around the dam made the ride quite a bit tougher.
Riders were wowed as the entered the Iowa River Landing in Coralville. A giant marquee greeted RAGBRAIers as they Coralville’s “Ride the Red Carpet” theme came to life.
The evening entertainment was recent Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductees Cheap Trick. The band played and the crowd sang to every hot song.
The final day is always the climatic ride to the Mighty Mississippi River. The trek from Coralville to Davenport was a long for the last day 68.5 miles with just 1,711 feet of climb. The towns of University Heights, Iowa City, West Liberty, Atalissa, Moscow, Wilton, Durant and Walcott were stops along the way to Davenport.
The original RAGBRAI route in 1973 was from Sioux City to Davenport, so riders were feeling nostalgic. This year’s theme in Davenport was “Where the Road Meets the River”. The main dip site was at scenic Credit Island, then riders traveled north into downtown where the 44th annual Street Fest was taking place. The BIX was run earlier that morning.
Riders enjoyed their journey from river to river to complete RAGBRAI XLIII!
RAGBRAI XLIV
July 24-30, 2016
RAGBRAI 2016 took riders from
