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The Iowan's 2009 Destination Trails

Guide to Recreational Trails and Attractions in Iowa

Spotlight Trails – West

To download a PDF of this special section CLICK HERE

Numbered trails and destinations are mapped HERE.

9 – Council Bluffs Trails
The Council Bluffs Trails extend throughout the city and along the Missouri Riverfront from Big Lake Park to the Iowa West Trailhead (which is near the start of the Wabash Trace).
Both downtown Omaha and Council Bluffs are linked by the spectacular Bob Kerry Pedestrian Bridge, which opened in 2008. The Council Bluffs Trails also connect to Lake Manawa State Park and the Western Historic Trails Center, two primary access points. Access to the Bob Kerry Pedestrian Bridge can be made from Council Bluffs Levee Road or Riverfront Drive in Omaha.
Length: 30 miles / Surface: paved

10 – Puddle Jumper Trail
The Puddle Jumper Trail runs between the communities of Orange City and Alton. This railroad-conversion trail takes visitors through open rural space, making it an excellent place to view wildlife. A bridle path for horseback riding runs alongside the main trail. The trail is lined with benches, and the midpoint of the trail can serve as a resting place and picnic area with an open-air shelter, restrooms, and a drinking fountain.
This midpoint is accessible by turning south onto St. Paul Avenue off of Highway 10 as you exit Orange City to the east. Other access points are from Albany Ave. S in south Orange City and Jefferson Ave. in Alton.
Length: 2.5 miles / Surface: crushed quartzite

11 – Rock Island Old Stone Arch Nature Trail – Shelby
The Shelby Stone Arch Nature Trail is accessible from the heart of the city or from the Shelby exit of I-80. It’s packed with a variety of native habitats, peaceful views, and historic bridges.
The north terminus of the trail extends to Pingel Timber and the south end crosses through a restored wetland. In the heart of Shelby is the historic depot.
The Rock Island Stone Arch is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. In 2001, two other historic bridges were moved to make the final crossing into Pingel Timber.
The trail is lined with stone benches and wildflowers and is dedicated to the late Reverend Stan Nielson, the original visionary behind the project. Other highlights include the Agri-Symbol Sculpture at the Cornstalk trailhead, a butterfly garden, and a model airplane landing strip by the Hackberry trailhead.
Length: 4 miles / Surface: asphalt

12 – Wabash Trace Nature Trail
This 63-mile trail goes through Iowa’s famous Loess Hills. Observant travelers will encounter an abundance of wildlife and quiet, scenic views. Trees form long, dense tunnels in the northern sections, while the south has more open spaces and prairie.
Enjoy the Thursday night “Taco Ride” from Council Bluffs to Mineola or explore the growing artist community in Malvern.
The Wabash Trace also holds historic treasures, including a restored depot in Shenandoah, old jails in Mineola and Silver City, and the spectacular St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Imogene.
Length: 63 miles / Surface: Crushed limestone on converted railbed; asphalt for 2 miles in Shenandoah

We want to hear about your Iowa adventures.
Send feedback and suggestions for 2010 to
pclark@pioneermagazines.com or write to:
The Iowan, ATTN: Destination Trails
218 6th Avenue, Suite 610
Des Moines, IA 50309