USA Cycling Gravel National Championships 2026 Locally Championed by Explore Minnesota

Tucked along the bluffs of the Mississippi River, the City of La Crescent’s natural surroundings set the stage for a vast assortment of recreational opportunities. La Crescent is uniquely located on three scenic byways: Apple Blossom Scenic Byway, National Historic Bluff Country Scenic Byway, and the Great River Road all pass through La Crescent. Picturesque bluffs and a quiet country roads make biking in this region some of the best-mountain, gravel, and road biking in the country. From atop the bluffs, riders will enjoy the numerous apple orchards as they ripen in the fall and view the beautiful river valley below. The steep bluffs attract athletes from around the country that are looking for a challenge. They provide great training for those training for races or to simply stay in shape. In fact, the only American to win the Tour de France trained on these bluffs.