Did you know that Pottawattamie County is the Trail Capital of Iowa? This week we are highlighting the recreational trails in Council Bluffs! All of the trails mentioned are excellent places to experience the beauty of Pottawattamie County. Whether you prefer bike riding, running, walking, or roller skating, there’s a trail in CB for you!
Iowa Riverfront Trail
The Riverfront Trail is a paved trail that spans the western side of Council Bluffs along the Missouri River. The trail connects Big Lake Park, the Narrows River Park, Roberts Park, Tom Hanafan River's Edge Park, Dodge Riverside Golf Club, and the Western Historic Trails Center.
- Trail surface: asphalt, concrete
- Accessible to persons with disabilities
- Pets allowed on a leash
Iowa School for the Deaf Nature Center Trail
This one-mile paved loop wanders through the Iowa School for the Deaf’s beautiful campus and is a great trail for all skill levels.
- Trail surface: asphalt
- Accessible to persons with disabilities
- Pets allowed on a leash
Lake Manawa Recreation Trail
This paved trail is perfect for jogging or a bike ride! It connects to the Wabash Trace Nature Trail and the Indian Creek Trail. If you are looking for a more extreme trail, there are roughly eight miles of mountain bike trails located near the boat ramps on the Missouri River.
- Trail surface: asphalt, concrete
- Accessible to persons with disabilities
- Pets allowed on a leash
Valley View Trail
This trail is great for biking, inline skating, walking, and jogging. The southern end of the trail links with the Lake Manawa Trail and the Wabash Trace Nature Trail. The trail passes through residential, commercial, and rural areas of Council Bluffs.
- Trail surface: concrete
- Accessible to persons with disabilities
- Pets allowed on a leash
Wabash Trace Nature Trail
Spanning more than 62 miles through the countryside of southwest Iowa, the Wabash is a converted railroad right-of-way that runs from Council Bluffs on the north to Blanchard on the Iowa/ Missouri border. Biking, hiking, and cross-country skiing are some of the best ways to enjoy the trail! This trail is also home to the locally famous Thursday Taco Ride.
- Trail surface: crushed limestone
- Accessible to persons with disabilities
- Pets allowed on a leash
Staying active and enjoying nature is critical for our physical and mental health. While you are out enjoying the trails, be sure to follow social distancing guidelines. When you approach others on the trail, look for a spot where you can get off the trail and maintain a 6-foot distance from others while passing. As always, respect the trails and leave no trace!
