Wild Driftless Adventure Race

  • Date Sat 3rd October 2026
  • Time 8:00AM CDT
  • Location Elkader, Iowa
  • Price $85.80 - $122.90
  • Races 2 races

Event summary

Get ready for an unforgettable outdoor experience at the Wild Driftless Adventure Race on Saturday, October 3, 2026, in the stunning landscapes of Elkader, Clayton, Iowa! This exhilarating race invites teams of 2-4 or solo adventurers to explore the breathtaking driftless region, known for its soaring limestone bluffs, crystal-clear trout streams, and scenic gravel roads. Participants can choose between two exciting options: the Wild Driftless 9-hour race, which includes trekking, biking on various terrains, and paddling in flat-water and gentle rivers, or the Wild Driftless Lite 5-hour race, featuring trekking, biking on gravel and grassy trails, and special tasks. Whether you're a seasoned racer or a first-timer, this event promises to challenge and inspire, all while surrounded by the natural beauty of Northeast Iowa. Mark your calendars and prepare for an adventure of a lifetime!

Organiser's Description

REGISTRATION OPENS JANUARY 5. JOIN US FOR NEXT YEAR'S WILD DRIFTLESS ON OCTOBER 3, 2026!

Soaring limestone bluffs, crystal-clear trout streams and fast-moving rivers, old-growth forests, single-track mountain biking, and some of the most scenic gravel roads youll find anywhere in the world. This isnt just the Iowa cornfields you expectthis is the driftless region!

The Wild Driftless Adventure Race will take you into some of the most scenic areas of NE Iowa, featuring trekking, biking, and paddling for teams of 2-4 or soloists. The course is designed for all ability levels with an eye toward serving as a fantastic entry-level event for first-timers AND challenging the most seasoned adventure racers.

2 OPTIONS FOR TEAMS & SOLOISTS
WILD DRIFTLESS
9-hour time limit

Trekking (on foot)
Biking (gravel roads, paved roads, and trails, including single-track mountain biking)
Paddling (canoes in flat-water and gentle rivers/streams)
Special tasks, including optional ropes section

WILD DRIFTLESS LITE
5-hour time limit

Trekking (on foot)
Biking (gravel roads, paved roads, and grassy/double-track trails)
Special tasks, including optional ropes section
No paddling



USARA MEMBERSHIP REQUIRED

When registering, be sure to click the box at the bottom under "Clubs" for USARA. You can either purchase a single-day membership for $8 or a yearly membership for $35. If you are purchasing a single-event membership, on the "Select your members" page (with the waiver at the bottom) be sure to uncheck the "Start membership immediately" button and select the date of the race (October 4, 2025).

USARA provides sanctioning for our event and secondary insurance for participants.

Races

  • Wild Driftless Adventure Race

    Incl. $7.90 Fee & T-Shirt

    Sat 3rd October 2026 (8:00AM CDT)

    $122.90

    OPENS 05 JAN 26
    9-hour time limit Trekking, Biking, Paddling, Special Tasks USARA Membership Required (select USARA under Club in the initial registration page. Single-day and yearly options available)
  • Wild Driftless Lite

    Incl. $5.80 Fee & T-Shirt

    Sat 3rd October 2026 (12:00PM CDT)

    $85.80

    OPENS 05 JAN 26
    5-hour time limit Trekking, Biking, Special Tasks USARA Membership Required (select USARA under Club in the initial registration page. Single-day and yearly options available)

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Location

707 S High St, Elkader, 52043, IA, United States

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