Is This the Longest and Straightest Gravel Road in Iowa?

Iowa is home to an incredible network of gravel roads—some winding, some rolling, some disappearing into the horizon like an endless ribbon of adventure. But what about the longest and straightest gravel road in the state? We think we’ve found it, and we want your input!

A 54-mile stretch of gravel from Humboldt, IA, Highway 169, west to the intersection of 60th Ave near Alta, IA, might just take the crown for Iowa’s longest, straightest gravel road. This route, created by Kyle Sedore, mapped out here in Ride with GPS, follows a yardstick-straight path across the state’s iconic rural landscape. No sharp curves, no unexpected turns, no pavement—just pure, unbroken gravel stretching across three counties (Humboldt, Pocahontas and Buena Vista).

How to get there? Off Highway 169, South of Humboldt, tank 240th Street West, which switches to 540th Street at highway P19 and then switches to 560th Street at 100th Ave before finally teeing off and ending at 60th ave, North of Alta. Ya gotta love the Iowa Gravel street name changes!

Iowa’s Gravel Roads: A Mixed Bag of Terrain

Gravel riding in Iowa is a big deal. With 60,000+ miles of rural roads, gravel enthusiasts are spoiled for choice. Some roads carve their way through the Loess Hills with twists and turns that keep you on your toes. Others cut through the rolling farmland, offering a rollercoaster waffle-like ride of challenging climbs and exhilarating descents. Then there are those rare gems—long, flat, and straight roads that let you settle into a rhythm and just go.

This stretch from Humboldt to Alta is about as straight as they come. It’s the kind of road where you can pick a point in the distance, lock into your pace, and just pedal. No sudden surprises—just smooth, uninterrupted cruising.

Is There a Longer or Straighter Gravel Road in Iowa?

That’s where YOU come in. Do you know of another gravel road in Iowa that rivals this one in both length and lack of curves? Maybe you’ve ridden an even straighter stretch somewhere in the state? We want to hear about it!

We looked and we couldn't find anything even close.

Drop your nominations in the comments or message us with your route suggestions. If we find a challenger, we’ll put it to the test and see if this stretch from Humboldt to Alta remains Iowa’s undisputed straight gravel king!

Until then, keep pedaling and exploring—there’s always another great gravel adventure just around the next bend (or, in this case, maybe not!).

Any yes, there IS a Strava segment for this section.