What do you do when much of the railroad route in your state is no longer needed for trains because other transportation options have taken the place of the railway? Well, in Iowa they turned many of their old, abandoned railroad beds into some pretty awesome, long paved biking trails. In fact, they've converted more miles of railroad beds into biking trails than any other state in the union. And-just like the railways before them-these routes now encompass rocky terrain, hills, wide open praire, wooded areas and forests, and even cross over creeks and rivers, so there is lots to see in the Hawkeye state.
The Wabash Trail near Council Bluffs is a great place for the entire family to ride. There's nothing too difficult and you can ride as long as you want. The entire length of the trail is 25 miles and it runs through some gorgeous countryside and charming little towns. The trail is mostly flat and there's lots of cool places to stop along the way. This makes for a terrific and relaxing ride!
Not far from Des Moines, you'll find a 7-mile trail running alongside the Des Moines River. Sometimes called the "Brickyard," the Sycamore Trail also includes some offshoot trails that loop around to provide some challenging diversions. This route is pretty technical, steep, and rocky, so it's recommended for experienced riders. And, since it is so close to the river, parts of the trail are actually under water during wet spring seasons. Plan to tackle this one during the dry season and exercise caution when riding, as you may encounter deer near the river along the way.
Looking for hilly terrain with some really awesome downhill shots where you can pick up some speed? What about creek crossings? You'll find that and a lot more at the Oleson Park Trail not far from Fort Dodge. This trail was designed by Joker Racing, so bikers are going to love it!
The Sugar Bottom Recreation Area near Iowa City is a network of multiple trails equaling about 10 to 12 miles. There are trails for all skill levels. They are well-marked, but most are one way so be sure to pay attention to a map or signs. The advanced trails have lots of double backs, roots, and other technical stuff. The trails are well maintained and can get pretty crowded, so be aware of those around you.
The Decorah Mountain Bike trail system is a great blend of intermediate to extremely advanced skilled trails. Steep climbs, fast descents, roots, rocks, dirt track, a variety of surfaces and terrains--you can expect to find all this and more here. This is also the site for the first MTB racing in Iowa. The approximate 14 miles of trails here will wear you out!
The Lewis and Clark Trail near Council Bluffs is a variety of trails that are not for the faint of heart! There's plenty of technical stuff to keep you hopping--steep climbs, roller coaster descents, twists and turns, obstacles, and much more. There are plenty of trails to choose from, about 7 miles worth. If one seems too difficult, there are usually several bailout points along the way. The trails usually aren't too busy, but watch out for hikers, especially on weekends.
Yes, Iowa may very well be a mountain biker's idea of paradise. Certainly a state that includes more than 1,200 miles of trails has got to pique your interest, too! So visit Iowa and check out the many miles of great trails. You'll be glad you did.
The Wabash Trail near Council Bluffs is a great place for the entire family to ride. There's nothing too difficult and you can ride as long as you want. The entire length of the trail is 25 miles and it runs through some gorgeous countryside and charming little towns. The trail is mostly flat and there's lots of cool places to stop along the way. This makes for a terrific and relaxing ride!
Not far from Des Moines, you'll find a 7-mile trail running alongside the Des Moines River. Sometimes called the "Brickyard," the Sycamore Trail also includes some offshoot trails that loop around to provide some challenging diversions. This route is pretty technical, steep, and rocky, so it's recommended for experienced riders. And, since it is so close to the river, parts of the trail are actually under water during wet spring seasons. Plan to tackle this one during the dry season and exercise caution when riding, as you may encounter deer near the river along the way.
Looking for hilly terrain with some really awesome downhill shots where you can pick up some speed? What about creek crossings? You'll find that and a lot more at the Oleson Park Trail not far from Fort Dodge. This trail was designed by Joker Racing, so bikers are going to love it!
The Sugar Bottom Recreation Area near Iowa City is a network of multiple trails equaling about 10 to 12 miles. There are trails for all skill levels. They are well-marked, but most are one way so be sure to pay attention to a map or signs. The advanced trails have lots of double backs, roots, and other technical stuff. The trails are well maintained and can get pretty crowded, so be aware of those around you.
The Decorah Mountain Bike trail system is a great blend of intermediate to extremely advanced skilled trails. Steep climbs, fast descents, roots, rocks, dirt track, a variety of surfaces and terrains--you can expect to find all this and more here. This is also the site for the first MTB racing in Iowa. The approximate 14 miles of trails here will wear you out!
The Lewis and Clark Trail near Council Bluffs is a variety of trails that are not for the faint of heart! There's plenty of technical stuff to keep you hopping--steep climbs, roller coaster descents, twists and turns, obstacles, and much more. There are plenty of trails to choose from, about 7 miles worth. If one seems too difficult, there are usually several bailout points along the way. The trails usually aren't too busy, but watch out for hikers, especially on weekends.
Yes, Iowa may very well be a mountain biker's idea of paradise. Certainly a state that includes more than 1,200 miles of trails has got to pique your interest, too! So visit Iowa and check out the many miles of great trails. You'll be glad you did.
About the Author:
PJ opened TheComfortBikeShop.com with her husband to help meet the needs of casual cyclists. She is a strong advocate for introducing people to cycling through comfort bikes and cruiser bikes. If you aren't ready for a hardcore mountain or road bike, check out a cruiser bike. PJ hopes to see you on the trails.
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