Wheels Up! RAGBRAI 2026 Route Has Been Revealed

There are two ways to look at each year's RAGBRAI route. Riders will no doubt look at the total miles they'll ride on their bikes from the Missouri River all the way to the Mississippi River. But the other number that they'll look at is the climb. Yes, Miley Cyrus fans, the climb is the real number to look at, and the 2026 RAGBRAI route has plenty of hills for even the most experienced rider!

The Shortest RAGBRAI Route Ever

The Cedar Rapids Gazette reports that the 2026 RAGBRAI route was announced on Saturday evening. The initial number many focused on was the number of miles, 391. That would make it the shortest RAGBRAI route in the ride's 53-year history. But the ride will also have over 16,000 feet of climb, and the Gazette reports that number will make it the 10th hilliest ride ever.

What Are The Overnight Stops on RAGBRAI?

This year's RAGBRAI ride will take place July 18-25, beginning in Onawa and ending in Dubuque, according to the Gazette. Here is the 2026 route that was announced on Saturday.

• Day 1 - Onawa to Harlan, 58.5 miles and 3,465 feet of climb.
• Day 2 - Harlan to Guthrie Center, 53.9 miles and 3,554 feet of climb.
• Day 3 - Guthrie Center to Boone, 59.5 miles and 1,503 feet of climb.
• Day 4 - Boone to Marshalltown, 62.2 miles and 1,563 feet of climb.
• Day 5 - Marshalltown to Independence, 81.4 miles and 2,713 feet of climb.
• Day 6 - Independence to Dyersville, 42.2 miles and 1,441 feet of climb.
• Day 7 - Dyersville to Dubuque, 33.7 miles and 1,788 feet of climb.

Can I Sign Up Now to Ride RAGBRAI?

You can register now to ride RAGBRAI this summer! The Gazette reports that the cost for a weeklong rider is $250, and for non-riders to support cyclists, the cost is $45. There will be a rate increase after February 28th. There are also ticket options for riders who just want to take part during certain days of the ride.