Reputation: Local Iowa event.
[01]
Course Overview
Kalona Horseshoe. 50 miles of gravel through Kalona.
50 mi
Distance
2,000 ft
Elevation
Kalona, Iowa
Location
May 9, 2026
Date
~50
Field Size
$50-75
Entry Cost
Facts & History
[03]
The Course
Photo: YouTube / iowagravelgang
Photo: YouTube / iowagravelgangIowa rolling gravel.
Signature challenge: Iowa rolling terrain.
15
MILE
Early Rolling
First rolling sections.
25
MILE
Midpoint
Halfway through the course.
40
MILE
Late Rolling
Final rolling sections before finish.
RIDERS REPORT
Course includes big chunky gravel sections that historically have been raced on road bikes with 25mm tires.
[04]
From the Field
We are here look at this at the uh the start of the Colona Horseshoe gravel. We came the night before so that we can get our packets picked up now we don't know how to deal with that in the morning tomorrow.
iowagravelgang · 1.2K views
Michael took first place in the 100K there's a fantastic photo on our Instagram of him finishing the race with a wonderful bunny hop across the Finish Line he has taken flight.
Iowa Gravel Series · 138 views
we came the night before so that we can get our pockets picked up now we don't know how to uh deal with that in the morning tomorrow
iowagravelgang · 1.2K views
I need a shift cable meet me at the feed Zone he's found a mechanic he's found a cable the guy's ready to change this thing out
Iowa Gravel Series · 54 views
RACER
Racer Reviews
Raced Kalona Horseshoe? Be the first to rate it.
[07]
Training
May 9, 2026 KALONA HORSESHOE
RIDERS REPORT
Racers have used road bikes with 25 millimeter tires on the gravel sections.
[08]
Train for Kalona Horseshoe
RACE DEMAND PROFILE
Durability
2
Climbing
3
VO2 Power
2
Threshold
5
Technical
4
Heat
1
Altitude
2
Race Specificity
3
FREE
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[09]
Race Logistics
Airport
Cedar Rapids (CID) 60 minutes
Lodging
Kalona has limited lodging options. Plan ahead.
Food
Kalona has limited dining options. Stock nutrition.
Packet Pickup
Day of typically
Parking
At start/finish
RIDERS REPORT
Going off the front solo early in the race is risky and will burn matches early, but can create significant gaps if executed properly.
[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
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Similar Races
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the climate like at Kalona Horseshoe?
Historical weather data shows average highs of 73°F and lows of 53°F, with a 48% chance of rain on any given day. May in Iowa delivers the "windy and rolly" conditions that define this course. The emphasis on wind as a consistent feature rather than bonus challenge reflects the reality of spring racing on exposed Iowa farm roads. More weather exposure than Belgian Waffle Ride San Diego.[6]
How are the logistics for Kalona Horseshoe?
Starting at Kalona Historical Village provides clear location and parking, with packet pickup the night before and morning of race. But no details on nearest airports, lodging options, or travel logistics for a small Iowa town. The basics are covered, but you're on your own for everything else.[6]
How adventurous is Kalona Horseshoe?
The race offers a unique opportunity to "race your bike past a horse-drawn buggy" through Amish country. The course provides "a bit of a preview of the terrain in Southeastern Iowa" with "captivating and quiet" scenery, but 50 miles on farm roads has adventure limits.[6]
How prestigious is Kalona Horseshoe?
This is a brand new grassroots race that joined the Iowa Gravel Series in 2024. Your winner Chad Showalter clocked 3:53:47 - respectable but not pulling UCI pros to Kalona. It's pie and horse buggies, not podium prestige.[6]
Should I race Kalona Horseshoe?
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: Dry 50K Kalona Horseshoe onridewithgps.com/routes/50701116
- Other Sources Icorrmtbicorrmtb.org/event/kalona-horseshoe/
- Other Sources Thenews-Iathenews-ia.com/stories/kalona-horseshoe-gravel-bike-race,...
- Other Sources Bikeiowawww.bikeiowa.com/Event/15673/kalona-horseshoe
- Other Sources Granfondoguidewww.granfondoguide.com/Events/Index/11788/kalona-horseshoe
- Other Sources Kalonachamberwww.kalonachamber.com/calendar/iowa-gravel-series-bike-ra...
- Other Sources Movemintwww.movemint.cc/events/kalona_horseshoe_2025/
- Other Sources Racecenterwww.racecenter.com/cycling/kalona-horseshoe
- Community youtube.com: Watchwww.youtube.com/watch?v=_7VS-l6yPqA