Iowa Wind and Rock
ExtremeA 340-mile self-supported gravel ultra across the rolling farm roads of Iowa, with no course markings and a 34-hour cutoff. Successor to the legendary Trans Iowa.
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▌ A 340-mile self-supported gravel ultra across the rolling farm roads of Iowa, with no course markings and a 34-hour cutoff
North America ultra event organized by Iowa Wind and Rock
12 SCORING DIMENSIONS
EFFORT MATRIX
EXPERIENCE MATRIX
GREEN FLAGS
- [+]547 km of extreme gravel through Winterset, Iowa
- [+]5,500 m of climbing — proper elevation
- [+]Self-supported / ultra format = adventure focus
- [+]Organized by Iowa Wind and Rock
- [+]Varied terrain: Gravel, Farm Roads
- [+]Strong US-style aid stations and event production
RED FLAGS
- [!]Ultra distance — needs serious training base
- [!]Extreme rating — only attempt with prior ultra experience
- [!]Self-supported — no aid stations expected
- [!]Details not yet verified — confirm via official site
RIDER FIT
Built for hours in the saddle — your distance
Significant climbing rewards low-watt grinding
Ultra format = guided adventure with timing chips
Self-supported format suits bikepacking instincts
Smoother surfaces let raw speed talk
Single-day pace suits crit-style riders less here
547 km is not a race — it's an expedition. Pacing is decided by hours, not km splits, and sleep strategy matters more than power.
TIRE INTEL
Mixed gravel with no extreme demands — go for rolling speed.
WEATHER PLAYBOOK
Winterset, Iowa in spring (April): expect mild conditions — pack for variable weather. Always check 7-day forecast race week and pack a packable shell.
PACING PLAYBOOK
Resist the urge to push. Your race starts in 48 hours, not at km 0.
Eat early, eat often. Sleep matters more than watts now.
Mental low point. Stick to the plan. Most riders bonk here mentally before physically.
Save matches. The finish line will reveal itself when you stop chasing it.
WHAT TO FEAR
- [!01]Late-race climbs after the legs are gone
- [!02]Mental low point on the long, lonely middle section
- [!03]Resupply gaps — carry more food than you think
INSIDER INTEL
“Iowa Wind and Rock is exactly what American gravel does best — well-organized, big aid stations, and a finish-line festival that makes the suffering worthwhile.”
RACE LOGISTICS
Multi-day stage race with full expedition support — lodging, meals, gear transport, and on-course mechanics typically included.
- +Timing chip + bib
- +Course markings + GPX
- +Aid station nutrition + water
- +Neutral mechanical support
- +Medical sweep + first aid
- +Daily meals
- +Gear transport between stages
- -Spare tubes / tubeless plugs
- -Lodging
Camping or shared accommodation at each stage town included or available as upgrade.
Book 6+ months ahead for big events. Check the race partner-hotel list for discounts.
Often the best value for groups. Search the wider race region, not just the start town.
Many gravel events offer on-site camping for a small fee. Check race FAQ.
- ▸Mandatory pre-race brief — non-negotiable attendance.
TRAVEL OPS
Iowa Wind and Rock is a destination-worthy ultra event in United States. A solid bucket-list addition.