“This ride absolutely pushed me out of my comfort zone, and now I can't wait to get back out there!”
- Lindsay S.
Organize Your Adventure
Here are some ideas for planning your visit, and ways we’ve supported other riders. We look forward to helping you find the routes and resources to ride your best in the Driftless.
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Day Ride
Whether a single jawn or several leading up to a big event, riding in the Driftless will recalibrate your legs and recharge your spirit. Bold topography and varied terrain means even short distances can have a big impact, ensuring day trips from nearby cities are totally feasible. And we’ll make sure your ride ends close to a great spot to eat.
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Weekend Retreat
Escape the city for 2-3 days of cycling in the perfect balance of peaceful and punishing. Challenging morning rides before afternoon activities with your family can keep your training plan on track. Or, test your climbing over consecutive days before that expensive destination trip. DCT will help plan routes, balance your time, and recommend area attractions for a memorable experience.
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Cycling Camp
Bring your team to the Driftless–or just a few of your crazy pals–for 3-4 days of cycling, camping, and calories. Routes tailored to your group’s character, with enough headroom for elite riders and shorter options for regular humans… and we’ll add an extra, in case of severe weather or hangover. Consider adding a cooler drop and standby sag to be sure all you have to do is focus on cycling.
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Ride Support + Cooler Drop
There’s not a lot out here, and that’s exactly why the cycling is incredible… but it’s a very real challenge. We can prepare a cooler of refreshments to hide at an oasis along your route (what a dream!) or offer standby sag support for a lift back to your start, just in case. It’s nice to have a friend in the area!
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Skills + Coaching
New to cycling, or interested in becoming a better rider? Climbing and descending, gravel and unpredictable terrain, navigation, and riding with others can all be intimidating, even for the strongest athlete. DCT will build a program for your visit, based on your current experience, that combines focused exercises and riding to improve your confidence and ability.
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Guided Tours
Cycling focused, critically informed… we love knowing more about how and where we ride. Plus, a little friendly conversation helps pass the time. Our tour director will join your ride, offering cycling tips and loads of local lore.
Driftless Cycling Tours is committed to accessible pricing and partnerships with local businesses, organizations, and communities, along with the responsible enjoyment of lands we visit.
More of our favorite routes…
Apple River Canyon State Park Loop
The state park offers parking and basic restrooms, with supplies available in nearby Stockton. This loop is an excellent introduction to our Driftless Area. Moderate climbs over a mixture of pavement and gravel make this an ideal route for the intermediate cyclist.
33 miles / 2,200 feet of elevation gain
Out of Terrapin Park in Elizabeth, with its handy restrooms and water fountain, you’ll find solitude and rolling hills in less than a mile. Four significant climbs that will challenge any rider, but the rewards are just as great as you pass the Valley of Eden Bird Sanctuary and other bucolic areas. Enjoy refreshments in downtown Elizabeth afterward.
38 miles / 2,700 feet of elevation gain
This single route connects many of our favorite segments across Jo Daviess County. From historic downtown Galena, past century-old farms, along high-ridge roads and down exciting, forested descents, every mile of this half-day (or more) excursion has something to see. Recommended for intermediate to advanced cyclists.
56 miles / 4,000 feet of elevation gain
Road and environmental conditions may change unexpectedly. Always exercise caution, do not over extend yourself or your fellow riders, and have fun so you can come back again!
In case of emergency, dial 911.
