Driftless Dagger

About the Event

Experience the Driftless Dagger, an exhilarating self-supported bikepacking adventure through the breathtakingly rugged landscapes of the Driftless Region. Choose from two challenging routes: the 550-mile odyssey with more than 40,000 feet of elevation gain for those seeking a true test of endurance and skill, or the Baby Dagger at 237 miles featuring over 20,000 feet of vertical ascent for runners desiring a formidable yet rewarding challenge.
Both races begin and conclude at Chestnut Mountain Resort in Galena, Illinois. This race is not just about distance; it's an exploration of relentless gravel paths, grueling climbs that push your limits, and serene back roads that offer moments of tranquility amidst the rugged terrain. Whether you're a seasoned athlete or seeking a new personal challenge, this event promises an unforgettable experience in one of America’s most pristine natural settings.

Races Offered

Baby Dagger - Baby Dagger - Athena/Clydesdale

Oct 03, 2026

straighten

Distance — 381.4K

terrain

Type — Cycling

timer

90 days remaining

sell

$125.00

Baby Dagger - Baby Dagger - Open

Oct 03, 2026

straighten

Distance — 381.4K

terrain

Type — Cycling

timer

90 days remaining

sell

$125.00

Baby Dagger - Baby Dagger - Pairs

Oct 03, 2026

straighten

Distance — 381.4K

terrain

Type — Cycling

timer

90 days remaining

sell

$125.00

Baby Dagger - Baby Dagger - Para

Oct 03, 2026

straighten

Distance — 381.4K

terrain

Type — Cycling

timer

90 days remaining

sell

$125.00

Baby Dagger - Baby Dagger - Singlespeed

Oct 03, 2026

straighten

Distance — 381.4K

terrain

Type — Cycling

timer

90 days remaining

sell

$125.00

Dagger - Main Event - The Dagger - Athena/Clydesdale

Oct 03, 2026

straighten

Distance — 885.1K

terrain

Type — Cycling

timer

90 days remaining

sell

$125.00

Dagger - Main Event - The Dagger - Open

Oct 03, 2026

straighten

Distance — 885.1K

terrain

Type — Cycling

timer

90 days remaining

sell

$125.00

Dagger - Main Event - The Dagger - Pairs

Oct 03, 2026

straighten

Distance — 885.1K

terrain

Type — Cycling

timer

90 days remaining

sell

$125.00

Dagger - Main Event - The Dagger - Para

Oct 03, 2026

straighten

Distance — 885.1K

terrain

Type — Cycling

timer

90 days remaining

sell

$125.00

Dagger - Main Event - The Dagger - Singlespeed

Oct 03, 2026

straighten

Distance — 885.1K

terrain

Type — Cycling

timer

90 days remaining

sell

$125.00

Weather History

These values represent the 3-year monthly averages for October in Galena.

thermostat Temperature

8.3° / 18.1°

wb_sunny Feels like

5.2° / 14.9°

light_mode Avg sunshine hours

8h 31m

water_drop Avg rainfall

2.4 mm

ac_unit Avg snowfall

—

air Avg wind speed

12.7 km/h (Gentle breeze)

opacity Sweat loss rate

Low

terrain Course conditions

Firm and slightly soft

sunny Max UV Index

Moderate (4.0)

humidity_mid Humidity

65.9%

wb_twilight Sunrise

07:15

nightlight Sunset

18:17

About Galena

Learn more about the host city, Galena.

Galena is a city in the Illinois Driftless Area 16 miles east of Dubuque, Iowa, and 163 miles west from Chicago. Galena is known as "The City that Time Forgot" for its rich 19th century heritage.