Dirty Ernie’s and the Research for the Kids organization will host their 7th Annual UTV Benefit Ride on Sunday, August 30, 2026, in rural Dubuque County, Iowa. The event runs from approximately 12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. along a roughly 62.67-mile route centered on Gun Club Road and other county roads. 

Proceeds support Research for the Kids, a local nonprofit that funds pediatric brain tumor and heart defect research programs at the University of Iowa Stead Family Children’s Hospital. The organization was founded by families who experienced the hospital’s care firsthand and has raised millions over the years through events including motorcycle poker runs and this growing UTV/side-by-side ride. 

Temporary Road Restrictions

Organizers have requested temporary delayed travel restrictions for local residents and traffic on the following county roads during the event hours:

•  Old Highway Rd

•  Gun Club Rd

•  Bankston Park Rd

•  Asbury Rd

•  Five Points Rd

•  Cedar Ridge Rd

•  Hales Mill Rd

•  Burtons Furnace Rd

•  Durango Rd

•  Sherrill Rd

•  Mud Lake Rd

•  Golf Lake Rd

•  Circle Ridge Rd

•  Balltown Rd

•  Ridge Rd

•  N Buena Vista Rd

•  Tollgate Rd

•  Holy Cross Rd

Emergency vehicles will retain full access if needed. Residents are advised to plan ahead for possible minor delays and to check local Dubuque County alerts for any updates.

Community Support for a Critical Cause

Past UTV rides, including the 2024 event hosted by Dirty Ernie’s in Farley, have drawn riders across northeast Iowa with stops in communities such as Dubuque, Holy Cross, and North Buena Vista. Participants and organizers emphasize the personal importance of the cause and the strong local support it receives. 

Research for the Kids continues its broader fundraising efforts, including its long-running annual motorcycle poker run/drive, with all proceeds directed to advancing treatments and seeking cures for children facing serious illnesses.

Local residents and UTV enthusiasts interested in participating or supporting the ride are encouraged to follow Dirty Ernie’s and Research for the Kids for registration details, route updates, and additional information as the event approaches. The ride combines outdoor adventure with meaningful community impact in support of pediatric medical research.

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