Dozens of dirt bikers gather here to begin adventure race across state
There were 60 to 70 dirt bike riders from across the U.S. who gathered at Rocky Top Campground and Cabins in Tecumseh last Wednesday in preparation for the start of “Adventure Palooza Missouri,” an adventure race in which competitors on dirt bikes use GPS coordinates to follow an off-the-beaten path trek across the state, looking for specific checkpoints. There are four different starting points, and the south track begins in Tecumseh.
If you noticed a few more dirt bike riders than usual zooming around Ozark County last week, you likely got a glimpse at some of the brave souls that took on this year’s “Adventure Palooza,” a one-of-a-kind dirt bike adventure across Missouri.
Described as an “epic back roads journey across the heart of the Midwest,” the event blends a rugged off-the-beaten path track with camaraderie and exploration into a three-day ride that ends with live music, campfires and plenty of storytelling under the stars.
Unlike a traditional rally that gathers in one central location, Adventure Palooza begins in four different corners of the state: north, south, east and west. Each track covers more than 400 miles of scenic byways, gravel stretches, low-water crossings, twisty turns and historic landmarks before all routes converge in Mexico, Missouri. Riders finish their journey at Fish Branch Angus and Wilbers Sunrise Stables there. Surprisingly enough, the adventure’s south track of the race begins in Tecumseh. “South routes have lots of technical areas, hilly and rocky climbs, wood sections, single track and private off-road,” the event’s website explains. “It can be quite challenging with some good stretches of scenic and hilly county gravel.” The south track is 80 to 90 percent on gravel roads, the site explains.
Joe and Diane Easterday, owners of the Rocky Top Campground and Cabins in Tecumseh, said that 60 to 70 riders stayed with them last Wednesday night in preparation for the race, which kicked off last Thursday, Sept. 25 and ran through Sunday, Sept. 28. “The cabins were full. The campground was full. There were people from all over: Texas, Colorado, North Dakota, Iowa, St. Louis, Kansas City...” Diane said.
Many of the guests were happy to share their plans with the Easterdays, who chatted with them as they checked in. “[They said] it’s not a race; it’s an adventure. They use an app that tells them where they should go and what they are looking for along the way. They have to find things like a washer on a tree at one spot or take specific pictures at different locations. It’s almost all back roads or forest, seldom on a main road.”
The adventurers also frequented other local businesses. Missy Grisham, who owns The Antler Motel in Gainesville with husband Ray, said the motel also had multiple people who were participating in Adventure Palooza stay the night there, and staff at Dawt Mill Resort said several of the adventure bikers stopped in Thursday to check out the grist mill, gift shop and enjoy some hand-dipped ice cream before moving on the next destination.
The ride is self-supported, with GPS tracks provided by Adventure Riders LLC founders Dale “Boots” McIntosh and John “JW” Wilbers. Each day lasts between seven and nine hours depending on the rider’s pace and skill level. While the main routes are designed for big bikes, alternate detours offer extra challenges for more adventurous riders.
A key part of the experience is the Goosechase app, which provides checkpoint details, photo challenges and opportunities for riders to rack up points. From GPS verification to creative snapshots, the checkpoints add a layer of fun and competition along the way. Bonus points are awarded for humor and originality, with results tracked live back at Palooza basecamp.
Organizers say getting there is half the fun - the rest comes after you’ve arrived. Once the bikes roll into Mexico, participants are welcomed with T-shirts, stickers and campsite directions before settling in for an evening camaraderie with fellow riders. Saturday night featured a barbecue dinner, live music and a big campfire, with photos from that year’s race projected for everyone to enjoy. Awards are given to standout riders and teams - and not just for high scores but also for categories like “first place loser” and best photos. On Sunday morning, the event wraps up with breakfast and a skills course for those who still have fuel left in the tank.
Organizers emphasize to participants that Adventure Palooza isn’t a race. It’s about adventure, friendship and experiencing Missouri’s hidden gems on two wheels. Riders can “compete or complete,” with the ultimate goal being safety and enjoyment.
For more information on the event and how to participate next year, visit adventurepalooza.com.