In 68 days · Sat, Oct 3, 2026
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Saturday, October 3rd, 2026
8700 W Chestnut Mountain Rd, Galena IL
Ultra
53–70°F · some rain risk
See last 10 years
On this date: rain 2 of the last 10 years
2025
61–88°F
dry
2024
50–75°F
dry
2023
62–83°F
dry
2022
47–68°F
dry
2021
63–74°F
rain
2020
44–55°F
dry
2019
49–61°F
dry
2018
58–83°F
rain
2017
68–79°F
dry
2016
51–66°F
dry
Best months to race in Illinois →
About this race
Welcome to the 2026 Driftless Gravel Festival!
We have teamed up with the ultra distance race, the Driftless Dagger, to form a weekend long festival in the most underrated cycling destination the Midwest. The party will get started on Friday afternoon with shakeout rides, a kids race, and packet pick up. The festival will take place at Chestnut Mountain Resort which is located in the heart of Driftless country while also overlooking the Mighty Mississippi.
Race Overview
The Galena territory was founded by resilient, industrious folks who put the area on the map by being the first major site of the mineral rush in the United States. They mined over 21 million pounds of lead in just a 3 year period. If you want to finish The Lead Ore, you’ll need the same tenacity that these early pioneers demonstrated.
Location Information
- Venue: Chestnut Mountain Resort
- Region: Illinois Driftless Region
- Scenery: Arguably the most scenic region Illinois has to offer
- Activities: Many activities for couples and families in the area
Additional Details
- Weekend Experience: We recommend making a weekend out of this one and taking in the full experience.
- Refund Policy: There are no refunds or deferrals.
- Registration Insurance: BikeReg does offer registration insurance at checkout.
- Registration Link: Register Here
Course map
Train with a club
Run clubs near Galena to train with before race day.
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