USA Cycling Gravel National Championships 2026 Locally Championed by Explore Minnesota

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About the Area

The gravel cycling routes in Southeastern Minnesota provide a great opportunity for challenging yet navigable courses for all abilities. This region was selected to host the USA Cycling Gravel National Championships because of the high-quality gravel routes, known as the “Champagne of gravel,” and the unique topography of the Driftless Region, which is home to idyllic bluffs and valleys. The courses have been designed to maximize gravel integration along bluff tops, through apple orchards, and into coulees, while minimizing paved road segments.

The Driftless Region’s unique landscape exists because glaciers didn’t reach this area, leaving the limestone bluffs and steep river valleys untouched and intact. To learn more about the Driftless Region’s topography, view this Emmy Award-winning documentary.

This event would not be possible without the support of the local communities in Houston and Winona Counties. Explore La Crosse and USA Cycling would like to thank: Houston County, La Crescent, New Hartford (Winona County), Mound Prairie, Houston, Money Creek, Sheldon, Union, Mayville, Brownsville and Hokah Townships.

La Crescent, MN

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. Picturesque bluffs and 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 view of apple orchards and the beautiful river valley below. The steep bluffs attract athletes from around the country that are looking for a challenge. The hilly routes provide great training for those getting race-ready or those simply looking for a challenge. In fact, the only American to win the Tour de France trained on these bluffs.

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Houston, MN

The City of Houston is located in the beautiful Root River Valley of Southeastern Minnesota, just 17 miles west of La Crescent. Houston is home to the International Owl Center, the Houston Nature Center, and the Root River State Bike Trail. The Nature Center serves as the eastern trailhead for the Root River Bike Trail and adjoining gravel routes. The Root River State Trail System provides access to over 40-miles of paved trails for bicycling, hiking, and in-line skating in Southeast Minnesota. Constructed on an abandoned railroad, the Root River Trail is generally level, with a steep climb between Houston and Vinegar Ridge. The ample gravel routes that start at the Nature Center take riders on scenic switchbacks, steep ridges, and gravel backroads.
PC: Explore Minnesota

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OTHER CYCLING EVENTS

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ORA Trails Fest

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