89
MILES OF PAVED TRAIL
14
IOWA COMMUNITIES
45
RESTAURANTS
400K
VISITORS / YEAR
The Bridge is Back!
Community Ride & Ribbon Cutting
After months of anticipation, it's time to celebrate!
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On Friday, August 21st, join the Raccoon River Valley Trail Association (RRVTA), Dallas County Conservation, and Adel Partners as we celebrate the reopening of the lighted trail bridge in Adel with a fun bike ride.
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Riders will enjoy a leisurely ride along the Raccoon River Valley Trail to Adel, where we'll gather for a 6:00 p.m. ribbon-cutting ceremony celebrating the reopening of this important trail connection.
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Following the ceremony, riders are welcome to enjoy downtown Adel's restaurants, shops, and hospitality before returning to Waukee at their own pace.
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There is no cost to participate, but we ask everyone to register in advance so we can plan for the event.
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IOWA'S CLAIM TO TRAIL FAME
Nationally recognized as an exceptional rails-to-trails conversion, the Raccoon River Valley Trail features a 72-mile loop within 89 miles of multi-use recreational trail. As the longest paved loop trail in the nation, it connects 14 central Iowa communities to offer outdoor recreationists a unique experience with every visit.
TRAIL CONSTRUCTION & BRIDGE REPAIR UPDATE
We’re pleased to share that construction on the three-mile section from Ortonville to Adel, near the Dallas Center exit off Highway 6, has been completed and that section of the trail is now open to users.
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However, there is still no access into Adel from the east as the Lighted Bridge remains closed. Repairs are currently underway following last year’s fire, and the bridge is expected to reopen in August 2026.
​Access to Adel from Redfield remains open. We appreciate the continued patience and support of our trail users as this important restoration project moves forward.
Shirley, “BEST Paved Bicycle Trails in the U.S.A. and Beyond” Facebook Group
“The trail was very smooth and pretty much flat, and the views were to die for. Farm land, corn, soy beans, wooded areas and just plain beautiful. Can’t think of a single negative about this trail or our ride today.”
Sonia, “BEST Paved Bicycle Trails in the U.S.A. and Beyond” Facebook Group
“Love the Raccoon River bike trail in IA. 100 miles of perfectly paved trails. Would suggest to stay at Perry, IA due to the cuteness of the town.”
Anonymous, 2025 Raccoon River Valley Trail User Survey
"This is the nicest bicycle and walking trail I have ever been on. Miles of peace and quiet."
IT'S TIME TO GET IN THE LOOP!
Whether you're a biking or running enthusiast, or you're looking for new ways to enjoy Iowa's beautiful landscapes with your family, the Raccoon River Valley Trail invites you to get in the loop of Iowa's most unique trail experience!
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STAY IN THE LOOP!
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