core4 is Iowa's premier gravel cycling experience. It’s a celebration of community, opportunity, recreation, and engagement.
The courses route through champagne gravel, the best b roads, amazing urban experiences, and super fast singletrack.
No Surface Untouched. RIDE. STAY. PLAY. - and earn every mile.
core4 Gravel in Iowa City is back for 2026 - and it’s bigger than ever. Known for its rolling terrain, relentless corners, and true Iowa gravel grit, core4 delivers a dialed-in rider experience from start to finish. With distances ranging from 20 to 120+ miles (including the Junior Gravel National Series, to the Gravel Earth Series to the Pro/Elite race), there’s a route for every rider - but none of them are easy.
New for 2026, core4 joins the USA Cycling Junior Gravel National Series, featuring a 60-mile course built specifically for the next generation of racers. Expect fast, unforgiving terrain, B roads, punchy climbs, and a cyclocross-style finish at Wilson’s Orchard that brings the energy all the way to the line.
Make it a full weekend with camping, the Friday Night Fiesta, and a post-race after-party that celebrates every mile earned. Whether you're racing, riding, or just testing your limits - core4 is one of Iowa’s premier gravel experiences.
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core4 Gravel: Where Iowa Grit Meets Next-Gen Speed