Wild Driftless Adventure Race
Always double-check with the organizer's website! This page may contain affiliate links.
Wild Driftless Adventure Race
The Wild Driftless Adventure Race takes place on October 3, 2026, in Elkader, Iowa. The event is based at Elkader City Park, 707 S High St, Elkader, IA 52043. It is an orienteering-based adventure race that uses map and compass navigation.
Teams of two to four complete the whole course together; solo competitors may also enter. The course location is kept secret until race day. Participants will travel by trekking, biking, and paddling according to the chosen race format. Most checkpoints are optional and can be selected by teams within the time limit.
Race distances and formats include:
- Wild Driftless 9 hour: Trek 5-13 miles; Bike 18-34 miles; Paddle 2-8 miles
- Wild Driftless Lite 5 hour: Trek 2-8 miles; Bike 10-15 miles; No paddling
Time limits are 9 hours for the full race and 5 hours for the Lite race. Entry is limited to a total of 350 participants across both races. Registration fees vary by date; price ranges for 2026 are $115 to $140 for the full race and $80 to $105 for the Lite race. USARA membership is required and is available as a single race fee or an annual membership.
The course travels through the Driftless Region and may include limestone bluffs, trout streams, rivers, old growth forest, single-track trails, and gravel roads. Organizers provide rules, mandatory gear lists, and offer navigation clinics and side events. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
