Midwest
ExpertAbout This Region
The American heartland is the birthplace of modern gravel cycling. Kansas and Iowa's endless network of county gravel roads, rolling Flint Hills grasslands, and wide open skies created the conditions for the sport's biggest event — Unbound Gravel. The terrain is deceptively demanding: relentless wind, punishing limestone rock, creek crossings, and 100+ mile distances that test your physical and mental limits like nowhere else.
Best Time to Ride
Late April through early June is peak gravel season, culminating in the Unbound Gravel weekend in late May. September and October offer cooler temperatures and drier conditions. Summer heat can be brutal (90°F+), and spring rain can turn roads to mud overnight — always check conditions before heading out.
Routes & Course Maps
Midwest
ExpertUnbound Gravel 200
Emporia, Kansas
207 mi9,000 ftGravel, chunky limestone
Route by Unbound Gravel (Life Time)
Route details
Midwest
IntermediateChequamegon 40
Cable / Hayward, WI
41.7 mi2,560 ft64% unpaved
Route by Chequamegon MTB Festival (Life Time)
Map & elevation GPX
Midwest
ExpertMidwest
AdvancedMidwest
IntermediateRaces & Events
Iowa Wind & Rock
Expected April 2027Grinnell, Iowa
Unbound XL 350
Expected June 2027Emporia, Kansas
Unbound Gravel 100
June 5, 2027Emporia, Kansas
Unbound Gravel 25
Expected June 2027Emporia, Kansas
Unbound Gravel 200
June 5, 2027Emporia, KS
Gravel & Grain
Expected September 2027Wamego, Kansas
Ride the Midwest gravel scene?
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Getting There
Fly into Kansas City International (MCI) or Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower National Airport (ICT) for the Flint Hills region. Des Moines International (DSM) serves the Iowa gravel scene. Emporia, KS — the epicenter of gravel culture — is a 2-hour drive from Kansas City. During Unbound weekend, book accommodations 6+ months in advance as the entire region fills up. Several local bike shops in Emporia offer mechanical support and rentals during race week.