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  • Posted Feb 7

Join us for an evening of great food, camaraderie, and cycling advocacy – all in support of one of Iowa’s premier trails!

The Raccoon River Valley Trail Association (RRVTA) Annual Fundraising Banquet is set for Saturday, February 15, 2025, at Country Lane Lodge in Adel, IA. This is your chance to celebrate the trail, connect with fellow supporters, and contribute to the future of cycling in Iowa!

Get Your Tickets Now!

What’s in Store?

  • 4:30 PM – Social Hour
  • 5:30 PM – Dinner
  • 6:15 PM – Program & Live Auction

Key Program Highlights

  • Luke Hoffman (Iowa Bicycle Coalition) – The economic impact of cycling in Iowa
  • Curt Cable (Dallas County Conservation) – 2025 trail updates and improvements
  • Amy Zeigler (Iowa Tourism Office) – How Iowa’s trails are shaping outdoor recreation
  • Exclusive Premiere – A brand-new marketing video showcasing the Raccoon River Valley Trail!
  • Emcee: Jason Sydejko, KCCI Chief Meteorologist
  • Live Auctioneer: Keith Kerkhoff
  • Silent and Live Auction - bid on cool gear and experiences for your favorite trail

Why Attend?

Your support helps maintain and expand the 89-mile loop that has become a cycling destination in the Midwest. Whether you’re a weekend rider, a long-distance cyclist, or a community advocate, this event ensures the RRVT continues to thrive for years to come!

Get Involved. Give Back. Ride On!

Reserve your spot today and be part of the future of the Raccoon River Valley Trail!

PURCHASE TICKETS FOR BANQUET

DONATE TO RRVT

Live Auction Items Include:

Must be present at the dinner to bid on Live Auction items.
  • Forecast and Newscast with Jason Sydejko of KCCI – Experience behind-the-scenes meteorology with Jason Sydejko at KCCI as he prepares and delivers a forecast.
  • YMCA of Greater Des Moines 1-Year Membership – Enjoy a free YMCA membership with access to fitness facilities and community programs.
  • Iowa Cubs Skybox Experience – Watch a baseball game from a skybox at Principal Park for an unforgettable experience.
  • RETÜL BIKE FIT – Receive a top-end bike fit experience with Jeremy Wofford using a cycling-specific motion-capture fitting system.
  • Two-Hour Private Swim Party – Host up to 50 guests at the new Dallas Center Aquatic Center.
  • Terrace Hill Tour for 20 – Enjoy a guided tour of the Iowa Governor's Mansion with Iowa’s First Gentleman, Kevin Reynolds.
  • Iowa State Football Package – Get an exclusive package for Iowa State vs. Arizona State on November 1, including 4 tickets in the Athletic Director’s suite, free parking, and complimentary food and drinks during the game.

The Raccoon River Valley Trail: A Premier Cycling Destination

The Raccoon River Valley Trail (RRVT) is one of the Midwest’s premier, iconic, long-distance recreational trails, offering 89 miles of paved, multi-use pathways that wind through scenic countryside, charming small towns, and historic railroad corridors. This looped trail connects Perry, Waukee, Adel, Redfield, Panora, Yale, Jefferson, and more, making it a favorite for cyclists, runners, and outdoor enthusiasts.

With its smooth pavement, minimal elevation changes, and abundance of trailheads, RRVT is perfect for both casual riders and long-distance adventurers. Whether you’re exploring the original trail or the extended “South Loop”, you’ll find breathtaking views, welcoming communities, and plenty of spots to refuel along the way.


Tourism & Trail Towns: Exploring the RRVT

The Raccoon River Valley Trail isn’t just a cycling route—it’s an economic and tourism engine for the towns along its path. Trail-friendly businesses, breweries, coffee shops, and restaurants thrive thanks to the thousands of visitors who ride through each year.

Key stops along the trail include:

  • Jefferson – Home to the iconic Mahanay Bell Tower and great local dining.
  • Perry – A historic railroad town with unique lodging like the Hotel Pattee.
  • Adel – A must-stop for a treat at the classic Brick Street Bakery.
  • Redfield & Panora – Scenic views along the Middle and South Raccoon River.
  • Waukee – The gateway to the RRVT, connecting riders to the Des Moines metro area.

With the rise of bicycle tourism, trails like RRVT are more than just recreation—they are lifelines for small-town economies, bringing visitors who stay, dine, and explore Iowa’s hidden gems.


About the Raccoon River Valley Trail Association (RRVTA)

The Raccoon River Valley Trail Association (RRVTA) is the driving force behind trail advocacy, improvements, and promotion. This nonprofit organization works tirelessly to maintain and enhance the trail, ensuring it remains a top-tier cycling destination for years to come.

Through events like the Annual Fundraising Banquet, RRVTA raises essential funds for trail maintenance, expansions, and marketing efforts that bring more visitors to the region. By supporting RRVTA, you’re helping to sustain one of Iowa’s most beloved recreational assets.

The RRVTA is a sponsor of BIKEIOWA.

Learn More About RRVT


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