If you’re looking for a gravel event that blends Midwest hospitality with legit race-day bite, core4 Gravel out of Iowa City continues to raise the bar. Built on a foundation of endurance sport and community, core4 has evolved into one of Iowa’s premier gravel experiences - equal parts challenging, scenic, and welcoming.

And in 2026? It just leveled up again. August 14-15th in Iowa City.

The Core of core4

core4 has built a reputation for delivering a dialed-in rider experience backed by:

• Thoughtfully designed routes that are safe and reward both fitness and skill
• Iowa’s signature rolling gravel terrain including a unique blend of multi surface riding
• A competitive edge without losing its community feel
• A finish-line atmosphere that brings it all together

Whether you’re chasing a podium or just chasing your limits, core4 delivers a high-quality gravel experience from start to finish.

Visit core4 and the bikeiowa core4 event.

The 2026 Gravel Course: Fast, Relentless, Iowa

The 2026 course continues core4’s signature style: no gimmicks - just pure gravel racing.

Expect:

• Constant rollers that make for a thrilling ride
• Relentless cornering that keeps you engaged
• B roads (minimum maintenance) that can be smooth, rough, or everything in between
• Strategic pavement sections that create opportunities to regroup - or attack
• Flowy and fun single-track dispersed throughout for those those doing the 120 or 70
  
• A cyclocross-style finish at Wilson’s Orchard that turns the final stretch into a spectator-friendly showdown

This is not a “set it and cruise” course. It’s dynamic, punchy, and requires focus the entire way.

The 2026 course lives up to core4’s mantra: No Surface Untouched.

NEW for 2026: USAC Junior Gravel National Series Stop

Gravel’s next generation is rolling through Iowa City.

core4 is officially part of the USA Cycling Junior Gravel National Series, putting it on the national map as a key stop for developing junior talent.

The Junior Course

A purpose-built 60-mile route designed specifically for junior racers:

• 44 miles of gravel
• 9 miles of B roads
• 7 miles of pavement
• Approximately 3,500 feet of punchy climbing

No single-track. No shortcuts. Just a fast, unforgiving course that mirrors the intensity of the main event.

What’s on the Line

• National series points
• A pathway to Gravel Nationals in Minnesota for top finishers(core4 is the last stop before the Sep 12 final)
• A chance to compete in a structured, high-level junior field

Registration Notes

• A USA Cycling annual license is required to score points in the series
• Any junior rider can register for the category and take on the challenge

Early Bonus: Ride Ready

To kick things off, Panaracer GravelKing steps in as the official tire sponsor of the junior race.

• First 10 junior riders to register for the 60-mile route receive a free set of GravelKing X1 tires, shipped directly to them

It’s a strong signal of where the sport is heading - supporting youth development with real investment.

Gravel Distances & Categories: Choose Your Challenge

core4 delivers a full range of gravel distances - each one designed with the same philosophy: No Surface Untouched.

Whether you're stepping into gravel for the first time or lining up with the front of the field, there’s a route built for your day.

Saturday Gravel Routes

• 20 Mile core4 Route (no single-track)
  A shorter, approachable option that still captures the core4 experience—perfect for newer riders or a fast effort.
• 40 Mile core4 Route (no single-track)
  A balanced challenge with enough distance and terrain to test your legs without going all-in.
• 60 Mile core4 Route (USAC Juniors)
  A punchy, high-value route that hits the sweet spot for many riders.
  Also features the USAC Junior Gravel National Series race, powered by Panaracer.
• 70 Mile core4 Route
  Powered by Bolton & Menk, this distance brings added endurance with the same relentless terrain.
• 120 Mile core4 Route (open)
  Powered by by McGrath Auto, this is the full endurance test - long miles, steady attrition, and a true core4 challenge.

Gravel Earth Series – Pro / Elite

• 120 Mile Gravel Earth Series Pro/Elite Race
  The sharp end of the field. This category brings together elite riders competing as part of the Gravel Earth Series, adding a international-level race within the event.
• Presented by River Products Company and Iowa City Sports Commission to offer a $15,000 purse even for women and men
  

Registration: Lock It In Early

core4 continues to grow - and registration reflects that.

With increasing national and international attention (especially with the addition of the USAC Junior Gravel Series stop), spots are expected to move quickly.

• Riders can register through BikeReg, with multiple categories and distances available depending on how you want to experience the weekend.

REGISTER HERE

Why register early:

• Secure your preferred distance
• Lock in pricing tiers
• Guarantee your spot in one of Iowa’s premier gravel events

Whether you’re racing, riding, or just testing yourself - this is one you don’t want to miss.

Gravel Earth Series

core4 is part of something bigger.

As a stop on the Gravel Earth Series, core4 joins a curated lineup of events across the world that showcase the best of high quality gravel racing - authentic courses, strong communities, and rider-first experiences.

What that means for riders:

• A chance to be part of a national gravel series
• Consistent, high-quality events across the calendar
• A focus on real gravel riding - not manufactured experiences

core4 fits this perfectly - challenging and diverse terrain, strong local support, and a course that rewards grit over gimmicks.

The Run: A Separate Event, Same Spirit

While core4 is best known for its gravel race, it also hosts a separate run event that captures the same rolling terrain and scenic Iowa backdrop.

The Orchard Run is:

• Its own standalone event on Friday (not part of the gravel race)
• Designed to highlight the same countryside and orchard with a strong community vibe
• A great option for those who want to experience core4 from a different endurance angle

It complements the weekend - but stands on its own.

The Finish Line: Wilson’s Orchard

Everything funnels into Wilson’s Orchard, and it delivers one of the more unique finishes in Iowa gravel.

• A cyclocross-style final section keeps things exciting to the line
• Spectators line the course for a true race-day feel
• Post-race food, drinks, DJs, fire performers, and community round out the experience

It’s not just a finish - it’s a full-on atmosphere.

Weekend Camping: Stay Close to the Action

Want the full core4 experience? Stay for the weekend.

Camping options near the venue allow riders and crews to:

• Wake up minutes from the start line
• Stay connected with the core4 community all weekend
• Skip the early morning logistics and just focus on the ride
• Choose from tent, car/van, or RV camping options
  

It’s a laid-back, rider-friendly setup that adds to the overall vibe - less stress, more time to hang out, prep, and recover.

Friday Night Fiesta

The weekend kicks off before the wheels even hit the gravel.

The Friday Night Fiesta brings riders, friends, and the local community together for:

• Packet pick-up
• Food and drinks
• Vendor area
• Live music
• Pre-race energy and storytelling
• A chance to connect with fellow riders and sponsors

It’s the perfect way to settle in, check your setup, and soak in the atmosphere before race day.

After-Party: Earned, Not Given

You didn’t just ride it - you earned it.

After the finish at Wilson’s Orchard, the energy rolls straight into the core4 after-party:

• Food, drinks, and post-race hangs
• Stories from the road (and B roads)
• Music and a relaxed, celebratory vibe

Whether you’re on the podium or just happy to be done, this is where the weekend comes together.

The Team Behind core4

core4 is powered by a dedicated team of cyclists, organizers, and community advocates who understand what makes a great event:

• Rider-first planning and logistics with safety prioritized
• Smart, intentional course design
• Strong local connections in the Iowa City area and all of Iowa
• A focus on long-term growth of the sport

Meet the Team- This is an event built by people who ride and care - and it shows.

Powered by Community: Partners & Sponsors

core4 is supported by a strong network of partners who help elevate the entire experience.

From national brands like Panaracer to local businesses like River Products Company and cycling advocates, these partnerships:

• Enhance the rider experience
• Support youth racing initiatives
• Help grow gravel cycling across Iowa and beyond

Be sure to check out the full partner lineup - and support the brands that support gravel.

Why core4 Matters

Gravel racing continues to evolve, and core4 is right in the middle of that momentum.

• It’s rooted in Iowa, and has gained national and international with safety prioritized
• It supports the next generation of riders through the USAC Junior Series
• It showcases what makes Iowa gravel special
• It balances competition and community in a way that keeps riders coming back

For Iowa’s cycling scene, this is another step forward.

Ready to Roll?

Whether you're lining up for the gravel race or bringing a junior rider to compete on a national stage, core4 2026 is shaping up to be one of the most complete endurance events in the Midwest.

• Lock in your spot.
• Dial in your setup.
• Get ready for Iowa grit.
• Register today

RIDE. STAY. PLAY.