Reputation: Local Iowa event.
[01]
Course Overview
Mormon Trail history and cattle encounters on Monroe County's pastoral Iowa gravel.
60 mi
Distance
3,258 ft
Elevation
Albia, Iowa
Location
July 18, 2026
Date
~100
Field Size
$50-75
Entry Cost
Facts & History
[03]
The Course
Photo: YouTube / Casey RalstonIowa rolling gravel.
Signature challenge: Iowa rolling terrain in heat.
20
MILE
Early Rolling
First rolling sections.
30
MILE
Midpoint
Halfway through the course.
50
MILE
Late Rolling
Final rolling sections before finish.
RIDERS REPORT
Aggressive hills
Riders describe the hills as hard and aggressive, representing a significant challenge throughout the course.
Roads are described as great quality despite challenging conditions. No ice reported, with roads staying in good condition.
[04]
From the Field
One of the key features of the route are the B roads - roads not maintained by the county. Depending on conditions these roads can either lead to Adventure or disaster.
Casey Ralston · 185 views
I ran out of skill trying to go into a corner a little bit too fast and just didn't quite have the technique, so I was like I'm either falling down in the road or I'm going into the weeds - weeds are the way I thought I chose right.
Casey Ralston · 185 views
We've taken a little bit of a B-road off of the 50K completely. The 100K, you've got a little tiny section. We'll be able to hike a bike it.
iowagravelgang · 871 views
RACER
Racer Reviews
Raced Albia Holy Cow? Be the first to rate it.
[07]
Training
July 18, 2026 ALBIA HOLY COW
[08]
Train for Albia Holy Cow
RACE DEMAND PROFILE
Durability
2
Climbing
4
VO2 Power
2
Threshold
5
Technical
4
Heat
1
Altitude
2
Race Specificity
3
FREE
GET THE ALBIA HOLY COW PREP KIT
12-week training timeline, race-day checklists, packing list, and personalized fueling calculator — unlocked instantly.
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
[09]
Race Logistics
Airport
Des Moines (DSM) 1.5 hours
Lodging
Albia has limited lodging options. Book ahead.
Food
Albia has limited dining options. Stock nutrition.
Packet Pickup
Day of typically
Parking
At start/finish
RIDERS REPORT
Plan for survival strategy - riders mention goal of getting to 30 miles and not dying, then making it back to the finish.
Be prepared for weather changes throughout the day - expect it to warm up as the day progresses.
Wind will be a challenge on race day - plan pacing and positioning accordingly.
[10]
Tire Picks
38mmMIXED
1
Specialized Pathfinder Pro
Fast center, grippy edges. The modern all-rounder benchmark.
2
Vittoria Terreno Mix
Graphene versatility. Mixed-terrain grip with reasonable rolling speed.
3
Continental Terra Trail
excellent wet grip
FRONT/REAR SPLIT Rene Herse Snoqualmie Pass 44mm / Specialized Pathfinder Pro 38mmFaster front for reduced rolling resistance on straights, grippier rear for traction on loose climbs and corners
[—]
Similar Races
[—]
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the climate like at Albia Holy Cow?
Historical weather data shows average highs of 85°F and lows of 68°F, with a 48% chance of rain on any given day. Mid-July in Iowa delivers heat, humidity, and potential thunderstorms. Classic midwest summer conditions create endurance challenges without altitude or desert extremes affecting Monroe County fairgrounds start. More weather exposure than Belgian Waffle Ride San Diego.[1]
How are the logistics for Albia Holy Cow?
Monroe County Fairgrounds venue provides RV camping sites with 200-rider cap and July 5th online registration deadline showing solid planning. Albia Chamber of Commerce partnership delivers local support with promises to 'show you around downtown and their picturesque square.'[3]
How adventurous is Albia Holy Cow?
Course founder encountered unexpected 'acres of grass-fed cattle, beautiful views' and 'a short ride along the Historic Mormon Trail' through Monroe County exploration. Pleasant countryside discovery without wilderness edge.[1]
How prestigious is Albia Holy Cow?
Regional Iowa Gravel Series race where Trevor Irwin podiumed 'as a triathlete trying gravel' demonstrates accessible competition level. 200-rider cap and fairgrounds venue show grassroots focus over elite field attraction.[7]
Should I race Albia Holy Cow?
If you're local to Iowa—yes, it's good value. If you're traveling—skip it.
[11]
Sources & Citations
Research sources used to build this race profile. Always verify details with official race sources before making travel or registration decisions.
- Route Maps RideWithGPS: 2023 Dry Albia Holy Cow 😇 🐮 (copy)ridewithgps.com/routes/45354264
- Other Sources Bikeiowawww.bikeiowa.com/Event/16026/albia-holy-cow
- Other Sources Granfondoguidewww.granfondoguide.com/Events/Index/10062/albia-holy-cow
- Other Sources Movemintwww.movemint.cc/events/albia_holy_cow_2025
- Other Sources Movemintwww.movemint.cc/events/albia_holy_cow_2025?tab=results
- Community youtube.com: Watchwww.youtube.com/watch?v=dnzANTYWAvk
- Community gravel-results.com: 20001www.gravel-results.com/race/20001