Iowa · Van Meter

Booneville

Founded in 2014 as the original Iowa gravel ultra, Booneville Backroads runs 100 miles on three loops through rural countryside west of Des Moines — 90% gravel and hardpack dirt, 5% Level B roads that turn to mud in rain, and 5% pavement. The route crosses four Covered Bridges of Madison County and rolls through 6,500 feet of gain on endless Iowa hills. Until 2026, runners navigated by cue sheet alone; markings were added for the 13th edition. Kyle Young's men's record stands at 17:25:26 (2015); Danielle Wangsness holds the women's mark at 21:00:21 (2021).