Highly-Anticipated RAGBRAI 2024 Route Announcement Reveales Challenging Journey Across Southern Iowa
Glenwood to Burlington: Southern Iowa Takes Center Stage
For the 51st Register’s Annual Great Bicycle Ride Across Iowa (RAGBRAI), riders will embark on the most challenging and picturesque journey yet. The highly-anticipated route for RAGBRAI 2024 was unveiled to an excited crowd of cycling fans at the Iowa Events Center during a special route announcement party.
A change in tradition, this year’s route will veer south, taking riders from Glenwood on Keg Creek, a Missouri River tributary, to Burlington on the banks of the Mississippi. The announcement comes after three consecutive years of starting in northwest Iowa and ending in Davenport or points north.
A Challenging Ride with Breathtaking Views
With its 424-mile distance, RAGBRAI 2024 is set to have the most elevation gain in the ride’s 51-year history, reaching an impressive 18,737 feet of climb. As ride director Matt Phippen emphasizes, “There’s going to be a lot of hills. I can’t stress that enough.” Riders can expect a mix of shorter and longer days, with three days covering 45 or fewer miles, but Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday ranging from 74 to 82 miles, each with at least 3,000 feet of climb.
Exploring South Iowa’s Beauty and Resilience
RAGBRAI’s decision to venture through the southern part of the state will take riders through a rugged contrast of deeply cut river and creek valleys, which differ from the long, flat expanses of north central and northwest Iowa. The route offers cyclists the opportunity to witness the awe-inspiring landscapes that have inspired artists, like Grant Wood, famous for his painting “American Gothic.”
The smaller overnight towns, such as Red Oak, Atlantic, Winterset, and Ottumwa, hold their own unique charm, eagerly anticipating the arrival of the RAGBRAI riders. For Winterset, the journey also offers the opportunity to celebrate the town’s resilience following a devastating tornado in March 2022.
Keeping the Spirit of RAGBRAI Alive
RAGBRAI, which attracts riders from around the world, is a window into the heart of Iowa, showcasing its diverse communities, rich heritage, and unyielding spirit. Despite the growing popularity of the ride, RAGBRAI organizers are careful to ensure that the ride remains manageable for the towns along its route and are committed to continuing to add value and improve the experience.
Music and the Delights of Southern Iowa
Southern Iowa’s smaller communities not only offer breathtaking scenery but also provide a warm welcome to RAGBRAI riders. This year, the ride returns to its tradition of allowing overnight towns to book their own musical acts, providing an opportunity to showcase local talent and promoting the local music scene.
An Event Tied to the Heart of Iowa
RAGBRAI not only offers a connection to the smaller, more intimate communities of Iowa, but it also makes a significant economic impact on the towns along its route. Previous years saw significant donations being made to these communities, promoting growth and community investment.
Registration and Additional Information
Registration for RAGBRAI LI, the 51st edition, began in November, and the full route, along with the pass-through and meeting towns, will be announced in April. Those interested can visit the RAGBRAI website for more registration and event details.
Get Ready for the Ride of a Lifetime
RAGBRAI 2024 promises a challenging and rewarding experience for riders, with stunning landscapes and vibrant communities showcasing the heart and soul of Iowa. Get your helmets ready and start training for an unforgettable journey across southern Iowa. See you at the start line in Glenwood on July 21, 2024!
Author Bio:
Philip Joens is an avid cyclist, having participated in RAGBRAI 18 times and complete the river-to-river trek seven times. He is a journalist covering retail, real estate, and RAGBRAI for the Des Moines Register. Feel free to connect with him on Twitter @Philip_Joens or reach out for any inquiries or questions related to RAGBRAI or cycling in Iowa.
