Exploring Iowa Trails: High Trestle Trail and Raccoon River Valley Trail

Join us for a fun weekend outing, Friday, June 14th through Sunday, June 16th, to explore two trails in central Iowa: The High Trestle Trail and the Raccoon River Valley Trail.

The High Trestle Trail is a paved, 25-mile linear trail that passes through 5 towns and includes an iconic, 1/2-mile, 13-story high bridge across the Des Moines River valley, one of the largest trail bridges in the world.

The Raccoon River Valley Trail is a paved, 72-mile loop trail, the longest paved loop trail in the nation, that connects 14 central Iowa communities.

Itinerary:

• Friday: Arrive by 7:00 PM at the trailhead for the High Trestle Trail in Madrid, IA. We will walk to a restaurant for a group dinner. After dinner, we will ride the High Trestle Trail to the lighted bridge and back. The bridge lights are on from sunset (~9:00 PM) to midnight. It is a 5-mile ride (round-trip distance) to and from the bridge. Those who wish to ride further are welcome to do so.
• Saturday: Arrive by 9:00 AM at the trailhead for the Raccoon River Valley Trail in Perry, IA. You may choose to ride the entire 72-mile loop, or an out-and-back ride of whatever distance you wish. Lunch is on your own by stopping at a restaurant or convenience store along the trail or packing a lunch. A dinner in Madrid, IA will also be planned for the evening as well as another ride on the High Trestle Trail.
• Sunday: Sunday's plans will be discussed at the Saturday dinner. Options include a day ride on the High Trestle Trail, riding the opposite direction on the Raccoon River Valley Trail, or any other suggestions.

Madrid / Perry Accommodations and Reservations:

• Madrid Area Chamber of Commerce
• Perry Chamber of Commerce
• Google Maps

Please make your own motel, B&B or camping reservation to suit your needs. If you are staying for the entire weekend, check-in is on Friday, June 14th, so that you may join the Friday dinner gathering.

Other Notes:

• Bike lights will be needed for the evening rides. Only the bridge is lit. There are no lights along the remainder of the trail.
• An email with more details will be sent 1 week before the event, after the RSVP cutoff date.