The Go Plus Ultra Gravel Race invites cyclists to tackle a demanding and exhilarating course winding through the outskirts of Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Spanning approximately 100 miles with an elevation gain nearing 4,500 feet, the race pushes riders into rolling hills, farmland paths, and sections of crunched gravel that test both endurance and technical skill. The terrain wears many faces—dusty open stretches daring you to hold your pace, forest-lined corridors that push you to focus on grip and momentum, and creek crossings that murmur their resistance beneath your wheels.

Starting just outside Cedar Rapids, the route pulses with the energy of an ever-shifting landscape. Expect tight turns that demand steady control and gravel that shifts under tire pressure, reminding you nature remains fiercely itself. The mix of prairie, woodland, and farmland holds occasional wind-whipped vistas where the sky leans low, pressing above the horizon like a dare to keep moving forward.

Preparation for the race is vital. Hydration must never be underestimated—carry at least two water bottles with extra electrolytes to combat heat and sweat, especially through the more exposed sections where sun beats without mercy. Footwear choice isn’t just comfort; reliable, grippy tires designed for loose gravel will let you confidently handle technical descents and rapid transitions between hardpack and soft gravel.

Timing your ride is a balancing act between avoiding midday heat and racing against fading light. Early morning starts offer cooler air and calmer winds but give way to rising temperatures that demand disciplined pacing and frequent water breaks. Nutrition should be high-energy but easy on the stomach; think nutrient-dense bars and compact gels.

The Go Plus Ultra Gravel Race is more than a ride—it’s a dialogue between rider and environment. The land pushes back, calling for respect and resolve. Whether you’re chipping away at the mileage or moving in strong packs, the experience presents a practical adventure filled with tactile demands and lasting satisfaction.

If you plan to venture into this gravel challenge, prepare with attention to the shifting terrain, stay vigilant about your gear, and embrace the sense of riding through a fiercely honest landscape. The rewards are in the ride itself, the demanding course shaping you as much as you shape the experience.