WYO-131 Gravel Race
📍 Wyoming, USA
gravelBeginner friendly
Date
12 September 2026
Distance
21km · 72km · 121km · 211km
Elevation
3,048 m
Difficulty
gravel
Driftless Dagger
Driftless Region of Illinois, Iowa, Minnesota, and Wisconsin, USA · 3-7 October 2026
Difficulty: 5/5 — Brutal
A 550-mile self-supported bikepacking race through the relentlessly hilly Driftless Region of the Midwest, renowned for its challenging gravel and dirt roads that offer no flat sections for recovery. This brutal event, nicknamed "Death by a Thousand Cuts," demands exceptional endurance from riders tackling hundreds of short, sharp climbs.
Visit official site →- Distances
- 550 miles · 237 miles
- Surface
- gravel, dirt
- Typical W/kg
- 3.5–4.5
Rider fit
Who it's for
This race is for highly experienced ultra-endurance gravel riders seeking a severe test of physical and mental fortitude across remote, unforgiving terrain.
Who will struggle
Riders unaccustomed to continuous elevation gain, remote self-supported bikepacking, or long hours in the saddle on technical gravel will find this race extremely difficult and likely overwhelming.
Training focus
Training should heavily emphasize sustained climbing power, long-distance endurance on varied unpaved surfaces, efficient sleep management strategies, and robust mechanical self-sufficiency skills.
Are you ready for this race?
Compare your W/kg to see how you stack up against this race's typical level — and which races fit you best right now.
FAQs
What are the available race distances for the Driftless Dagger?+
The main Driftless Dagger race covers 550 miles, and there is also a shorter "Baby Dagger" option which is 237 miles.
What kind of bike and tires are recommended for the course?+
A gravel bike or a hardtail mountain bike is suggested, equipped with 40-50mm tires for comfort and control on the unpaved sections. A suspension fork is not strictly necessary but could be beneficial.
What does it mean to be a self-supported race?+
Riders must carry all their own gear, food, and repair tools, navigating independently without outside assistance. Resupply is only permitted at public commercial establishments accessible to all riders, and no aid stations or pre-staged supplies are allowed.
What is the start location and time for the 2026 race?+
The 2026 Driftless Dagger starts at Chestnut Mountain Resort in Galena, IL, on October 3, 2026, with a tentative start time of 7 AM.
Is GPS tracking required for participants?+
Yes, all participants are required to carry an approved GPS tracking device, and live race tracking is publicly available. Riders can use their own device or rent one.
Are there any special awards for fast finishers?+
The first rider to complete the 550-mile Dagger distance within 42 hours elapsed time (approximately a 13 mph average) will earn the opportunity to direct a $10,000 charitable donation to an approved 501(c)(3) organization of their choice.