RAGBRAI LII Route announced - Overnight Towns

Posted Jan 30
561

"Take Flight" is the theme. The route is the 2nd shortest and the sixth flattest on record in the last 51 years

RAGBRAI LII will be held from July 19-26, 2025.
Total Miles: 406
Total Elevation: 10,487

RAGBRAI's Official Route Page

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Day 0 - Sat, July 19th - Orange City - RAGBRAI Expo

Miles: 0 - RAGBRAI Expo Day!
Population: 6,397
Last hosted: 2017, 2012, 2005, 2002, 1996, 1993, 1975
About: Known for its Dutch heritage, Orange City brings a slice of the Netherlands to Iowa with its colorful windmills and tulip festival every spring. The town is also home to the striking Orange City Historic District and boasts a welcoming atmosphere for visitors biking through during RAGBRAI.
Must See: the Dutch Windmill—a working windmill built in the traditional Dutch style
Local Bicycle Shop: none
Eating & drinking establishments: 17
Convenience Stores: 10
Social: web: https://ragbrai.orangecityiowa.com/ Facebook: Orange City RAGBRAI

Day 1 - Sun, July 20th - Orange City to Milford

Miles: 70.1
Elevation: 1,522 ft
Population: 3,309
Last hosted: 2014
About: Nestled near the scenic Okoboji lakes in the Iowa Great Lakes region, Milford offers a mix of natural beauty and recreation. Biking enthusiasts will find a rich trail network, and the town is a gateway to the renowned Dickinson County Nature Center and the famous lakeside attractions.
Must See: the Water Ski Hall of Fame
Local Bicycle Shop: The Okoboji Cyclist
Eating & drinking establishments: 19
Convenience Stores: 14
Social: web: coming soon!

Day 2 - Mon, July 21st - Milford to Estherville

Miles: 44.6
Elevation: 1,395 ft
Population: 5,823
Last hosted: 2005
About: With its history rooted in the railroad and agriculture, Estherville is known for the 1870s-era Emmet County Courthouse and as the site of Iowa’s first major meteorite find in 1875. The nearby Estherville City Trail provides easy access to the area's parks, making it a great stop for RAGBRAI riders.
Must See: Iowa's first and only meteorite—a 40-pound rock that came from space in 1875
Local Bicycle Shop: none
Eating & drinking establishments: 20
Convenience Stores: 8
Social: web: coming soon!

Day 3 - Tue, July 22nd - Estherville to Forest City

Miles: 74.1
Elevation: 1,308 ft
Population: 4,272
Last hosted: 2014, 2002, 1987, 1982
About: Forest City’s name comes from its location among the rolling hills and timberlands of North Iowa. The city is home to the Winnebago Industries factory, where RVs are manufactured, making it a must-see for anyone interested in the recreational vehicle culture. The town also boasts a lovely downtown and scenic trail systems.
Must See: Tour the Winnebago RV Factory
Local Bicycle Shop: none
Eating & drinking establishments: 20
Convenience Stores: 15
Social: web: coming soon!

Day 4 - Wed, July 23rd - Forest City to Iowa Falls

Miles: 68.3
Elevation: 1,449 ft
Population: 5,002
Last hosted: 2021, 2004, 1995, 1978
About: A picturesque town along the Iowa River, Iowa Falls is known for its stunning waterfalls and historic downtown area. The city also features the Iowa Falls Trail and numerous parks, making it a peaceful yet adventurous stop for RAGBRAI riders seeking a taste of both natural beauty and small-town charm.
Must See: the waterfall in the middle of town
Local Bicycle Shop: Spoken Wheel Cyclery
Eating & drinking establishments: 20
Convenience Stores: 18
Social: web: coming soon!

Day 5 - Thu, July 24th - Iowa Falls to Cedar Falls

Miles: 49.5
Elevation: 1,262 ft
Population: 40,737
Last hosted: 2015, 2007, 1998, 1989
About: Cedar Falls is rich in history and culture, with the University of Northern Iowa providing the backdrop for this vibrant city. The Cedar Valley Trail System offers scenic routes through the region, while the downtown area offers shops, eateries, and the renowned Cedar Falls Historical Society museum.
Must See: The 1900s ‘Heritage Bridge’
Local Bicycle Shop: Bike Tech
Eating & drinking establishments: 42
Convenience Stores: 20
Social: web: www.cedarfallsragbrai.org Facebook: Cedar Falls RAGBRAI Instagram: cedarfallsragbrai

Day 6 - Fri, July 25th - Cedar Falls to Oelwein

Miles: 38.2
Elevation: 1,210 ft
Population: 5,791
Last hosted: 2002, 1990
About: Oelwein’s heart beats with its proud railroad history, seen through its iconic train depot and railroad park. Known as the "Crossroads of the Nation" due to its location on several major rail lines, the town offers a peaceful stop along RAGBRAI, with plenty of parks and community spirit.
Must See: the giant train mural on the side of a building downtown
Local Bicycle Shop: none
Eating & drinking establishments: 20
Convenience Stores: 10
Social: web: coming soon!

Day 7 - Sat, July 26th - Oelwein to Guttenberg

Miles: 61.2
Elevation: 2,341ft
Population: 1,808
Last hosted: 2014, 2005, 1996, 1987, 1980
About: Located along the Mississippi River, Guttenberg offers some of the best river views in Iowa. The town is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts with access to boating, fishing, and hiking trails. Plus, its historic downtown and charming riverfront make it an unforgettable stop for RAGBRAI riders.
Must See: a huge, colorful mural of a catfish downtown
Local Bicycle Shop: none
Eating & drinking establishments: 19
Convenience Stores: 4
Social: web: coming soon!

Each of these towns promises a unique experience for riders, from stunning landscapes to deep-rooted histories, making RAGBRAI LII an exciting journey through Iowa’s diverse communities.

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"Take Flight" - the 2025 RAGBRAI Gives Beneficiary: Honor Flight

RAGBRAI is excited to announce that the Honor Flight Network will be the beneficiary of our Community Fund for RAGBRAI LII. All funds raised will support active hubs serving Iowa veterans, advancing the Honor Flight mission: "To celebrate America’s veterans by inviting them to share in a day of honor at our nation’s memorials." RAGBRAI is grateful for the service and sacrifice of our veterans and is honored to support those who have served our country. More Information at RAGBRAI gives.