Frequently Asked Questions

What do we do about course conditions?
Course conditions are a big consideration for every race. It's not just how strong you are, it's how strong you are compared to the field on that day. And, that means weather is always a factor in racing.
Can I register late or on the day of the race?
You might be able to register or sign-up late for one of races. It's always best to register early. If it's possible, here's how to do it.
Where to camp near Pisgah
Camping near Pisgah is probably the best thing you can do to get the feel of this beautiful area that feels amazingly untouched yet so close to a metro area.
Where to camp near Glenwood Iowa
Glenwood sits in a really unique place. Just 30 minutes from Omaha and Council Bluffs, but once you get into the Loess Hills you feel worlds apart from the busy city or suburbs. And, there are some great places for camping depending on the level of "roughing it" you want to …
How to order your 2022 Iowa Gravel Jerseys
We worked with Iowa native cycling apparel company BikeRags to design and produce a custom jersey for the Iowa Gravel Series. They're on sale now for pre-order!
2021 Strava Segments
Each race in the series has a number of Strava Segments that we pick out as either especially difficult or uniquely positioned in the race to provide some novelty. We post these segments with the route release the Wednesday before the race.
How to share photos from a race
We don't charge you for the photos, it's part of your registration. And, we encourage you to share your photos from the day with everyone else! Here's how to get and share pictures from a race.
What to pack on a gravel race?
Knowing what to pack for a race is important, especially when you're new to the sport. There are some basics and there are "luxury" items and at some point you'll have to draw a line between what you choose to pack with you and what you won't. But, just in case …
No Racing on the Trace
The last 3 miles of the Silver City Century are on the Wabash Trace. Known as "the trace" to locals, it is 60+ miles of Rails to Trails goodness that goes from Council Bluffs to Blanchard. It's well maintained and used by locals and visitors from all over. There's been a …
How to print a cue sheet from RideWithGPS
we got a question about cue sheets and made a quick video. Check it out…
How can my friends and family watch me race?
Watching a bicycle race is kind of hard. My favorite way is from a TV at home on my couch, but unfortunately the Iowa Gravel Series is not televised (yet). So, if friends and family want to come cheer you on, what can they do? Well, we have scouted out a …
Parking in Silver City
There's a bit of street parking in Silver City, but the local town folks have suggested we us an old Co-op lot that is next to the Wabash Trace. People will be on hand to direct you and parking is marked on the 100km and 50km route files we sent you. …
How do I win an Iowa Gravel Series race?
This isn't a posts on how to win races. No, this post is about the requirements racers have to fulfill to receive their prizes when placing 1st, 2nd, or 3rd on a Iowa Gravel Series race. Basically, there are 3 requirements to win a race… You have to start with the …
How to print and navigate a route with a cue sheet?
Cue sheets are a simple tool from a more simple time. They work just great when you pay attention to where you are and where you're going. Just don't expect them to re-route you to your destination.
How to setup a bicycle route on your phone
How do you get a gravel route on your phone? This post will get you started.
How do aid stations work?
Aid station on the 2020 Glenwood Gravel. A self-described "total noob", i.e. someone new to gravel riding, reached out and asked a completely legit question, "explain it to me like I'm 5–how do the aid stations work?" This is a great question and I'm glad you ask. Aid stations are an …
What if something goes wrong?
What do we do when the weather is crazy on race day? Don't worry we got plans. In fact, our plans have plans, so read on to see what happens when mother nature is playing games with the Iowa Gravel Series.
What about timing?
Timing is kind of an important part of a race. So, what do we plan to do for the Iowa Gravel Series? Well, we want to make sure you have a great day in the saddle

Got more questions?

You can leave a comment here or email us a hello@iowagravelseries.com and we’ll get you an answer as soon as we can!