In 19 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
Race Overview
The Driftless Dagger is a self-supported bikepacking race through the rugged, untamed beauty of the Driftless Region. Choose between a grueling 550-mile route with over 40,000 feet of climbing or the Baby Dagger at 237 miles with 20,000 feet of vert.
Event Details
- Date: 2026-10-03
- Location: 8700 W Chestnut Mountain Rd, Galena, IL
- Start/Finish: Chestnut Mountain Resort
- Website: BikeReg.com/dagger
Race Experience
This race is Death by a Thousand Cuts—relentless gravel, brutal climbs, and peaceful back roads that challenge your limits.
Course map
Hotels for race weekend
Live prices near the start line, Oct 2 – 4, 2026.
Train with a club
Run clubs near Galena to train with before race day.
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