I was recently sent and email from a couple in Carroll Iowa looking for some overnight trail destinations. They wanted lodging close to a trail.
These are the recommendations we made.
Cedar Falls - They have 100+ miles of paved trail and there are
plenty of things to do and places to stay. They are one of the few
official bicycle-friendly cities in Iowa with a huge bicycle tourism
focus.
I've spent a couple of weekends there and have always found it interesting. http://www.bikeiowa.com/Sponsor/160/cedar-valley-trails
http://www.bikeiowa.com/City/cedar-falls
Decorah
- I have not made it here yet, but the Trout Run Trail has gotten
nothing but positive reviews all the way around. Plus the city is doing a
lot to welcome cyclists.
Read the reviews, features and news on this trail here:
http://www.bikeiowa.com/City/decorah
Des Moines Trails - There must be 20+ miles of Trails within Des Moines Proper and another 30 miles of trail if you include the burbs. Lodging is abundant and it is worth exploring if you want a little bit of urban trail riding.
http://www.bikeiowa.com/City/des-moines
Heart of Iowa Trail
- This is an un-paved, under-used trail that starts in Slater and goes
to Rhodes (and kinda Melbourne) . If you want a little more adventure,
this is a great trail to see a lot of small towns, cool bridges and scenic views. Be
prepared for some sandy and rutty sections, but I think it is well worth
the trip.
http://www.bikeiowa.com/Trail/heart-of-iowa-nature-trail\
If you end up riding one of these trails, we'd love to have you write up a Review for other readers.
Ride Safe!