Note: This is a preemptive post if there is such a thing. It is written as a placeholder for the actual event when it occurs. The content will be changed at that time.
JULY 20, 2026
This may be the most up-and-down profile of the seven days. It is 56.3 miles (90.6 km) and 3,590′ (1.094m) of gain.
The only pass-thru town other than Meeting Town is Elk Horn at MP 21. That will have to be Breakfast Town, although maybe fuel up in Harlan before hitting the road. But there’s more here than meets the eye. Population 600, it is of Danish heritage, and is home to the Museum of Danish America.
Also, here will be vendor Donuts on the Roll for a delicious lineup of favorites, including:
Fresh Mini Donuts
Flavored Lemonades
Nachos
Lotus Energy Drinks
Shaved Ice
Just nine miles farther will be Exira, the Meeting Town. Although the population is just 787, this tiny town hosts thousands each year on July 4.
Our destination is 32 miles. This kills my theory that RAGBRAI is a series of 10-mile rides. There appears to be nothing between Exira and Guthrie Center but expect a roadside farm stand or even a Smoothie Vendor to be on the route.
Guthrie Center (population 1,577)
