
Moonrise Bike Ride 2026 - Bikepacking, Music, and Food Festival on the Flint Hills Trail is a road cycling race on September 11–13, 2026 in Ottawa, KS, with entry fees from $25 to $145.
From the Organizer
Moonrise Main Event
Experience an unforgettable bikepacking adventure on the Flint Hills Trail State Park! Ride from Ottawa to Pomona Lake State Park, where you'll enjoy a chuckwagon dinner, a relaxing evening of live bluegrass music, and a moonlit ride before settling in to sleep under the stars. Most importantly, you'll connect with fellow riders and create lasting memories.
Moonrise Campfire (Optional 2nd Night)
Want to extend the adventure? The 2-night Campfire Option starts Friday afternoon with a social gathering at Riverbank Brewing in Council Grove. From there, you'll ride 20 miles along the Flint Hills Trail to Basecamp in Allen, Kansas, where you'll set up camp, enjoy a delicious meal, and gather around the campfire for live music.
On Saturday morning, after a hearty breakfast, you’ll continue on a 32-mile ride to Pomona Lake State Park for the Main Event festivities. On Sunday, the journey continues with a ride along the Flint Hills Trail, finishing in Ottawa.
Point-to-Point Rider Support
For riders starting at Base Camp Flint Hills (1-night) or opting for the Campfire Option (2-night), this will be a point-to-point ride—starting in Council Grove and finishing in Ottawa. This format allows for better rider support and offers the unique opportunity to experience nearly 72 miles of the Flint Hills Trail. Riders must arrange their own transportation or take advantage of our shuttle service. This does not affect the 1-night Main Event riders, who will start and finish in Ottawa.
Rider Shuttle Transportation
To accommodate point-to-point riders, we are offering two shuttle options:
1) A Friday shuttle to transport riders from Ottawa to the starting point in Council Grove.
2) A Sunday return shuttle for riders needing transportation back to Base Camp Flint Hills or Council Grove.
This service provides flexibility—allowing riders to park at either the start or finish while we handle bike and rider transport. Spots are limited, so register early to secure a shuttle option when signing up for either the 1-night Main Event (Council Grove Start) or the 2-night Campfire Option.
Events
Weather
It's too far out for a forecast, so here's what weather on this date is normally like in the area. A race day forecast will replace this as race week approaches.
Typical High
82°
Typical Low
58°
Chance of Rain
28%
Based on US Climate Normals data from Ottawa, 1 mi from the venue.
Host City
Population
12,632
as of 2023
City Elevation
912 ft
Nearest Airport
MCI
Kansas City International Airport · 56 mi
Time Zone
Central Time
From Endurance Grid
A small town race. Lodging near the start could be limited, so book early.
Race Location
Your Next Start Line
Every finish line starts with a single decision. Claim your spot at Moonrise Bike Ride 2026 - Bikepacking, Music, and Food Festival on the Flint Hills Trail, put it on the calendar, and turn “someday” into a start date.
50
Days to train
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From Endurance Grid
Endurance Grid is here to help you understand the sport, decide if it’s the right fit, and learn how to prepare. For course distances, logistics, and race-day specifics, always defer to the race organizer’s event page.
Road cycling rewards pacing judgment and consistent time on your bike more than raw power. If you already ride regularly and can comfortably ride a few miles, you have a good starting base for most beginner-friendly events.
Built around sustained effort on a bike, exploring cities on the open road. Beginner distances create a great entry point into endurance sports.
Coming Up
Hot Laps
52 miles away
Emporia Freedom Fest Run-Ride-Ruck-Release and Recognize!
52 miles away
CPKC Spin for a Veteran
50 miles away
Bikes BBQ and John Brown
19 miles away
Plan your trip
Coming from out of town? There's more to Ottawa than race day. We'll help you line up nearby lodging, flights, a rental car, and things to do so you can make the most of your racecation.
Plan your trip to OttawaFrequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Moonrise Bike Ride 2026 - Bikepacking, Music, and Food Festival on the Flint Hills Trail
Sep 11, 2026