Iowa Randonneurs • Pre-Ride Dispatch
Iowa Stubborn
Iowa Stubborn
200k 2026
Randonneurs, I'm looking forward to welcoming you all this Saturday, April 11th. I pre-rode the entire route on March 29th and have important notes to share — including a critical route change you must have loaded before you roll out. Read everything below carefully before Saturday.
Please arrive 15 minutes before 7:00 AM so we can handle any last questions and start on time. The start location is right next to the hotel lobby, just in front of the neighboring Poindexter Coffee window — look for me and the bikes.
You must use the updated route: Iowa Stubborn 200k = Rosedale Reroute. Do not use any older saved version. Load this before Saturday morning.
On the previous route, a bridge crossing was expected at approximately mile 50.7. When I pre-rode on March 29th, here's what I found — and why the route was changed:
The Rosedale Reroute navigates around this construction entirely. If you are on the correct route, you will not encounter this issue. Do not attempt to pass the construction site — workers may be present and access may be blocked.
There is an active trail closure and detour around mile 60. The detour is short and well-signed — just follow the orange signage.
This section was somewhat rough when I rode it — bumpy with some ruts — but entirely ridable. Just be prepared for a brief stretch of uneven trail surface.
The short gravel section on Hazelwood Road was very flat and easy to ride with almost no gravel to speak of. Not a concern for most setups.
The event listing notes a short section of light gravel south of Iowa City in the rural Mennonite area. Wider tires are always welcome on this route, but the gravel is minimal and manageable on road bikes.