The Raccoon River Valley Trail (RRVT) is one of only three rail-trails nominated this year for the Hall of Fame of the Rails-to-Trails Conservancy. Hall of Fame selection is done through a public vote which takes place July 30 through Aug. 6. The voting form will be available at railstotrails.org/halloffame once voting opens on July 30. If selected, the RRVT would join more than 30 iconic trails nationally recognized in the Rail-Trail Hall of Fame.
“Being nominated for the Rail-Trail Hall of Fame is an honor. Winning the vote would not only bring the RRVT national attention, but also bring trail enthusiasts as tourists to central Iowa,” said Mike Wallace, executive director of the Dallas County conservation board and RRVT Association board member.
The RRVT is the longest paved loop in the nation, totaling 89 miles, and offers views of agricultural landscapes, woodlands and prairies. The route connects 14 communities in Dallas, Guthrie and Greene counties. A unique part of the RRVT is the artwork located along the trail, including Adel’s colorful “lighted bridge” and the City of Waukee’s 350-foot-long gateway pergola at the trailhead.