Moonrise Underground 2026

Moonrise Underground is a brand-new bikepacking adventure for 2026, hosted by Ottawa Bike and Trail. This two-day experience showcases some of the best riding in the region, including the Prairie Spirit Trail State Park, Southwind Trail, Base Camp Humboldt, and Downtown Humboldt.

Riders will roll out from Ottawa Bike and Trail in Ottawa and travel 68 scenic miles along the Prairie Spirit and Southwind Trails to Humboldt. The crushed limestone trails provide smooth, approachable riding, making this event perfect for both first-time bikepackers and seasoned gravel riders looking for a fun weekend adventure.

Upon arrival in Humboldt, riders will set up camp and relax at the beautiful Base Camp Humboldt facilities. After settling in, the group will ride into Downtown Humboldt for an evening on the historic square. Riders can enjoy a variety of local restaurants, explore shops, and take in live music and entertainment.

As the evening winds down, participants will experience the signature moment of the event — a moonlight ride back to Base Camp, followed by camping under the stars.

On Sunday morning, riders will gather for a catered breakfast before packing up and heading back to Ottawa, completing a memorable weekend of riding, food, music, and community.

Schedule

Saturday, June 20

8:00 - 9:30 a.m. - Check and bag drop at Ottawa Bike and Trail 

9:30 a.m. – Group departs from Ottawa

11:00 - 1:30 p.m. - Check in and bag drop for riders staring in Garnett

12:00–1:00 p.m. – Lunch in Garnett (on your own)

1:00–4:00 p.m. – Ride from Garnett to Iola

4:00–4:30 p.m. – Ride from Iola to Base Camp Humboldt

4:30–6:00 p.m. – Set up camp

6:00 p.m. – Ride to Humboldt Square

6:30–7:30 p.m. – Dinner at Humboldt Square (on your own)

6:30–9:00 p.m. – Live music at Humboldt Square

9:00 p.m. – Moonlight ride back to Base Camp Humboldt

10:00 p.m. – Lights out

Sunday, June 21

7:00–8:30 a.m. – Breakfast at Base Camp Humboldt

8:00 - 9:00 am - Bag drop off for return riders

9:00 a.m. – Riders begin returning to Ottawa

11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Bag pickup for riders ending in Garnett

2:30 - 5:00 p.m. Bag pickup for riders ending in Ottawa

Music Lineup:

The Patti Steel Trio brings together three accomplished musicians whose shared love of roots music, storytelling, and community creates a rich and engaging live performance. Blending elements of folk, bluegrass, Americana, blues, jazz, and country, the trio delivers heartfelt songs, dynamic musicianship, and authentic acoustic energy that connects with audiences of all ages.

Patti Steel – An acclaimed singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and educator, Patti Steel blends roots, jazz, blues, country, and soul into performances marked by emotional honesty and powerful storytelling. Her distinctive voice, versatile musicianship, and engaging stage presence have made her a sought-after performer throughout the Midwest.

Sally Vee – An award-winning songwriter, performer, and multi-instrumentalist from the Flint Hills of Kansas, Sally Vee brings more than two decades of musical experience to the stage. A respected educator, touring artist, and arts advocate, she is known for her original songwriting, rich musicianship, and deep connection to the natural beauty and musical traditions of the Midwest.

Jeff Barnett – A lifelong champion of acoustic music and community, Jeff Barnett is the founder of the renowned Owl Creek Jamboree, a beloved Kansas bluegrass and roots music festival. Known for his passion for traditional string music, Jeff has spent years bringing musicians together through festivals, jam sessions, and performances that celebrate the spirit of fellowship and acoustic artistry.