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.
Not far from Council Bluffs, families will enjoy journeying along the Wabash Trail, a 25- mile run that is pretty easy to travel and great for beginners. Along with fantastic scenic views, this route includes lots of opportunities to stop and check out the little towns and stopping points all along this trail. This is a fun, relaxing ride with lots of great interesting attractions as an added benefit.
The Sycamore Trail near Des Moines is also known as the "Brickyard." (Because it used to be one!) Most of the trail runs along the Des Moines River for about 7 miles. However you can several miles to your ride by branching off on one of the challenging loops along the trail. The Brickyard area is very rocky and steep and technical. Part of the trail actually gets submerged under water during spring, so always ride when it's dry. Watch out for deer on the trail as well.
The Oleson Park Trail near Fort Dodge that have been designed and continually improved by Joker Racing. You'll experience a really fast downhill section as well as some wet/dry creek crossings. The terrain is hilly, but nothing too difficult. There's something here for everyone.
The Sugar Bottom Recreation Area includes a complete network of trails for inexperienced and advanced bikers alike. Many are one-way, so watch the signs or get a map. Altogether, the trails encompass 10-12 miles of riding and they're nicely maintained. This is a popular area, though, so stay alert as it can be crowded at certain times of the year. Trails designed for advanced riders feature great technical features like tree roots and double backs.
For intermediate to professional level bikers, the 14-mile trail on the Decorah Mountain Bike Trail System will get your heart racing! Home to the first MTB racing event to be held in Iowa, you'll find lots of technical features to challenge even the most advanced riders. Roots and rocks, steep inclines and rapid descents, dirt track and lots of other types of terrains and surfaces-there is something here to challenge everyone-and this track definitely will challenge most riders!
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.
With over 1,200 miles of bike trails, the state of Iowa is a mountain biker's paradise. Hopefully the choices above have whet your appetite to experience them for yourself! Happy trails!
Not far from Council Bluffs, families will enjoy journeying along the Wabash Trail, a 25- mile run that is pretty easy to travel and great for beginners. Along with fantastic scenic views, this route includes lots of opportunities to stop and check out the little towns and stopping points all along this trail. This is a fun, relaxing ride with lots of great interesting attractions as an added benefit.
The Sycamore Trail near Des Moines is also known as the "Brickyard." (Because it used to be one!) Most of the trail runs along the Des Moines River for about 7 miles. However you can several miles to your ride by branching off on one of the challenging loops along the trail. The Brickyard area is very rocky and steep and technical. Part of the trail actually gets submerged under water during spring, so always ride when it's dry. Watch out for deer on the trail as well.
The Oleson Park Trail near Fort Dodge that have been designed and continually improved by Joker Racing. You'll experience a really fast downhill section as well as some wet/dry creek crossings. The terrain is hilly, but nothing too difficult. There's something here for everyone.
The Sugar Bottom Recreation Area includes a complete network of trails for inexperienced and advanced bikers alike. Many are one-way, so watch the signs or get a map. Altogether, the trails encompass 10-12 miles of riding and they're nicely maintained. This is a popular area, though, so stay alert as it can be crowded at certain times of the year. Trails designed for advanced riders feature great technical features like tree roots and double backs.
For intermediate to professional level bikers, the 14-mile trail on the Decorah Mountain Bike Trail System will get your heart racing! Home to the first MTB racing event to be held in Iowa, you'll find lots of technical features to challenge even the most advanced riders. Roots and rocks, steep inclines and rapid descents, dirt track and lots of other types of terrains and surfaces-there is something here to challenge everyone-and this track definitely will challenge most riders!
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.
With over 1,200 miles of bike trails, the state of Iowa is a mountain biker's paradise. Hopefully the choices above have whet your appetite to experience them for yourself! Happy trails!
About the Author:
PJ is a busy wife and mother of two. In addition, she fields questions from women about biking fitness and searches for the best deals on cruiser bikes. PJ's bike shop offers great deals on comfort bikes as well.
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