NO SINGLE MOUNTAIN.
A HUNDRED HILLS.
The Driftless Region doesn't let up. Neither does the Dagger.
Ride Fast, Donate Cash
The first rider who completes the course within 42 hours elapsed time (roughly a 13 mph average) will earn the opportunity to direct a $10,000 charitable donation to a cause of their choice. Limited to the Dagger distance only
Time: 42 hours
Speed: ~13 mph avg (elapsed)
Donation: $10,000
Dagger (550 miles)
*Restrictions apply. Donation award limited to the first place finisher of the Dagger event who completes the event in a total elapsed time with an average speed equal to or greater than the stated donation award thresholds. Routes are subject to change until the race begins. Times listed above are representative of the respective average speed. If route distances differ, average speed will dictate new target time to beat. Charity must be a registered 501(c)(3), not have political or religious affiliations, and is subject to approval by the Driftless Dagger race organizers. All race rules outlined above must be followed in order to qualify, including but not limited to following the exact designated route with GPS evidence via approved device.
THE TERRAIN
THE DRIFTLESS REGION
The Driftless Region was bypassed by glaciers during the last ice age. The result is a landscape unlike anything else in the Midwest: dramatic river valleys carved into ancient bedrock, steep bluffs rising hundreds of feet above floodplains, and a network of unpaved roads connecting small farming communities through terrain that never flattens out.
For cyclists, the Driftless is a relentless test. There are no long flat sections to recover on. Every valley is followed by a climb. Every ridge drops into another valley. Over 550 miles, this adds up to an extraordinary amount of vertical gain — earned one short, sharp punch at a time.
WHAT TO EXPECT
The Driftless Dagger is not trying to be the Midwest's easiest ultra race. It's trying to be one of the best. The route was designed to expose riders to the full character of the Driftless Region — its remoteness, its terrain, and the particular challenge of grinding through elevation gain that never comes from one dramatic climb but from a hundred small ones.
Most riders plan for 2–5 days of racing for the full Dagger. Sleep management, food planning, and mechanical readiness are as important as fitness. The route passes through small towns and rural areas — services are available but require planning ahead.
GEAR & BIKE SETUP
The Dagger is a bikepacking-style race. A gravel bike or hardtail mountain bike with 40–50mm tires is typical. Wider tires provide more comfort and control on the unpaved sections. Suspension forks aren't a bad idea but not necessary for the majority of the route.
THE RULES
1. Complete the Course Under Your Own Power
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Stay on the prescribed route. If you leave, return to the exact spot you exited
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Only detour for road closures or safety hazards
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No motorized assistance
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No drafting (except Pairs Category)
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For major mechanical issues, you may get outside help (excluding friends/family) but must resume from the breakdown point.
2. Ride Solo & Self-Supported
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You're responsible for yourself
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No outside help unless it's commercially available to all
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Carry your own gear—no sharing (except Pairs Category)
3. Equal Opportunity
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No pre-race caches or staged supplies
4. Non-Stop Race
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The clock runs from the Grand Depart until you finish or scratch
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No mandatory stops or rest periods
5. Proof of Completion
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Use an approved GPS tracker with our event tracking service to verify your route and time
6. Safety First
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Follow all traffic laws and ride safely
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Wear a helmet at all times
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Must have two headlights and two tail lights with separate power sources; lights on from dusk to dawn
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Wear reflective gear when riding at night
7. Honor System
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Know the rules and self-police
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Report rule violations within 48 hours post-race
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Minor infractions may result in time penalties; major ones can lead to disqualification
