Annual RRVTA Banquet – February 15, 2025
Mark your calendars! The annual Raccoon River Valley Trail Association (RRVTA) Banquet is set for Saturday, February 15, 2025, at Country Lane Lodge in Adel.
Social Hour: 4:30 PM
Dinner: 5:30 PM
Program: 6:15 PM
We are thrilled to announce that ticket prices remain unchanged:
$50 per individual
$500 for a table of 8
This banquet is our largest fundraising event of the year, supporting trail promotion and marketing efforts.
This year’s program includes:
Amy Zeigler, State of Iowa Tourism Manager, discussing how trails attract visitors to the state.
Luke Hoffman, Iowa Bicycle Coalition, presenting findings on the economic impact of Iowa trails.
Updates from three county conservation directors on trail projects.
The world premiere of the new RRVTA video.
The evening will be hosted by Jason Sydejko of KCCI, with Keith Kerkhoff leading the live auction. Don’t miss the silent auction featuring unique gifts and experiences, and enjoy a chance to network with fellow cyclists.
PURCHASE RRVT APPAREL
100% of proceeds support RRVT
2025 Trail Improvements
South Loop: Work continues on resurfacing and bridge repairs between Adel and Waukee, as shared in our November newsletter.
North Loop: Exciting updates for a 14-mile stretch between Winkelman Switch in Greene County and Yale in Guthrie County. The Guthrie and Greene County Conservation Departments have secured $1.2 million in TAP funds and hired WHKS Engineering to prepare for additional grant applications. They are exploring cost-saving options like roller-compacted concrete for trail replacement.
The Friends of Greene County Iowa Parks, a new nonprofit, is raising funds to support trail repairs and other projects.
Maintaining and upgrading trails requires significant public and private funding. We commend Dallas, Greene, and Guthrie counties for their dedication to preserving the RRVT.
We Want Your Feedback!
If you haven’t completed our trail user survey, there’s still time! The survey closes December 31.
Your insights are invaluable in helping us improve the trail experience. Share your thoughts on surface conditions, amenities, and areas for improvement. Results will be shared at the February banquet and in the March newsletter.
Click here to take the survey. Thank you for helping us make the RRVT even better!
Year in Review: 2024 Highlights
RRVT & HTT Connection Completed
The new connection between the RRVT and the High Trestle Trail was completed in August, creating a 120-mile paved trail loop—the longest in the U.S. This vital link also contributes to the Great American Rail-Trail.
On August 17, over 200 people gathered in Bouton to celebrate, with a bike ride led by Luke Hoffman of the Iowa Bicycle Coalition. This long-awaited project, funded by grants and individual donations, cost over $6 million and took 10 years to complete.
Trail Repairs & Enhancements
June: Cement resurfacing and bridge repairs on the Redfield-Linden section.
October: Widening of the “Lighted Bridge” in Adel.
More improvements between Adel and Waukee are scheduled for 2025 as part of the ongoing South Loop upgrades.
Notable Rides
Celebrate Trails Day (April): Dr. Richard Deming led 70 riders from Dallas Center to Perry. Join us on April 25, 2025, for next year’s event.
Bacoon Ride (June): This annual favorite, hosted by the Iowa Bicycle Coalition, continues to attract participants nationwide.
Mike Wallace Retires
After years of extraordinary leadership, Mike Wallace, Dallas County Conservation Director, retired in July. Wallace played a pivotal role in the development of the North Loop and the RRVT-High Trestle Trail connection. In his honor, the High Trestle Trail bridge between Woodward and Bouton has been named after him.
Trail Permits Eliminated
As of January 2024, trail permits were no longer required, simplifying access and aligning the RRVT with other Central Iowa trails. Donations for trail maintenance are accepted below.
Season's Greetings
Happy Holidays from the RRVTA! May your season be filled with joy, scenic trails, and adventures in the great outdoors. Here’s to another fantastic year of exploring the paths that connect us all! 🦝🎄🚴♂️
