Ride the Ups and Downs
Presented by Galena’s local cycling club, Ride the Ups and Downs is a touring loop of beautiful Jo Daviess County, Illinois that features hilly terrain, spectacular ridge top panoramas and long valley views. Choose one of three clearly marked routes on rolling, low traffic, paved roads throughout our rural setting. 100% paved, 0% competitive (unless you’re battling the headwind!), and SAG support is available.
Ride Ten Thousand
Described as the best cycling in the Midwest, and possibly the most challenging, the Ten Thousand offers tons of gravel, relentless rolling hills, and more cows than you’ve ever seen. Don’t take our word for it: here’s a clip of the Gravel Cyclist on a recent course.
100 / 80 / 40 mile routes, and free registration. Routes designed by Driftless Cycling Tours.
Lead Ore Gravel
The Lead Ore will take place from Massbach Ridge Winery, situated smack dab in the middle of the Illinois Driftless region. This is arguably the most scenic region Illinois has to offer, with significant climbing and unpredictable conditions. We recommend making a weekend out of this one and taking in the full experience.
https://www.leadoregravel.com/
Route design and event consulting provided by Driftless Cycling Tours.
Driftless Dagger
This is where rugged gravel roads, steep ascents, and peaceful backcountry stretches meet the raw beauty of the Driftless Region. With minimal pavement, endless climbs, and small-town resupply stops sprinkled along the way, the Dagger is "Death by a Thousand Cuts"—a challenge built for riders who thrive off-road and live for big miles.
https://www.midwestultracycling.com/driftless-dagger
Route and event consulting provided by Driftless Cycling Tours.
Autumn Air Tour
Date(s) and details TBC. Sure, everyone is amped over cyclocross, but that doesn’t mean we can’t have an amazing ride through the crisp air and stunning fall colors of Jo Daviess County (a.k.a. Vermont for Midwesterners). And you bet we’ll try to sneak in a stop for apple cider and donuts. Email if you’re interested!
Ride Ten Thousand
Described as the best cycling in the Midwest, and possibly the most challenging, the Ten Thousand offers tons of gravel, relentless rolling hills, and more cows than you’ve ever seen. Don’t take our word for it: here’s a clip of the Gravel Cyclist on a recent course.
100 / 80 / 40 mile routes, and free registration. Presented by Rapha, routes designed by Driftless Cycling Tours.