The route for the 52nd annual bicycle trek across Iowa includes a 15 mile detour into Minnesota’s Jackson County.
JACKSON COUNTY, Minn. — A legendary Iowa bicycle adventure is making a bit of history by crossing the border into Minnesota for the very first time.
Organizers of the 52nd edition of RAGBRAI, the annual seven-day trek across Iowa’s heartland, say the route for this year’s ride includes a jaunt into the territory of its neighbor to the north. Day 2 of the ride will see riders steer their bikes into southern Minnesota for a 15-mile stretch, a development that will make a bit of history.
“For over five decades, we have explored every corner of Iowa, and this year, we are excited to bring RAGBRAI into Minnesota,” said RAGBRAI Ride Director Matt Phippen Thursday as the route was announced. “Together with the Jackson County Parks and Recreation Department, Minnesota Department of Transportation, Minnesota State Patrol, and the Bicycle Alliance of Minnesota, we know this will be an incredible ride.”
The short stretch along the roads of Jackson County will include a short rest stop at Brown Park South. Minnesota bicycle enthusiasts can’t wait.
“We’re delighted to be a part of it,” Michael Wojcik, of the Bicycle Alliance of Minnesota, told KARE news partner KTTC. “Our partners and friends down in Jackson County are really thrilled to show off our hospitality, and our amenities, and our scenic beauty as well.”
RAGBRAI LII takes place July 19-26, taking riders from Orange City to Guttenberg, Iowa. For information on registration and ride logistics, check out the RAGBRAI website.
