April 26th, 2025 marks a special occasion for trail lovers across the country - Celebrate Trails Day, a national event hosted by Rails to Trails Conservancy (RTC). More than just a reason to enjoy the outdoors, this day is about embracing the power of trails to connect communities, promote healthy lifestyles, protect the environment, and strengthen local economies. And here in Iowa, where trails weave through prairies, towns, river valleys, and bustling cityscapes, there’s no better place to celebrate.

What is Celebrate Trails Day?

Launched in 2013 by the Rails to Trails Conservancy, Celebrate Trails Day takes place on the fourth Saturday of every April. The day is intended to inspire people across the United States to enjoy and support the growing network of multi-use trails in their communities.

This isn’t just a feel-good moment. It’s a call to action - to appreciate and protect these vital corridors that support outdoor recreation, sustainable transportation, and equitable access to green space.

Iowa's Trail Legacy

Here in Iowa, trails are more than paths - they're lifelines. With over 3,350 miles of multi-use trails, our state is a leader in trail connectivity and development. Whether you're cruising along the High Trestle Trail, winding through the Cedar Valley Nature Trail, or exploring Des Moines' Neal Smith Trail, Iowa trails are stitched into the fabric of our cities and countryside.

A few trail standouts worth celebrating this year:

• The Raccoon River Valley Trail: A 89-mile loop through central Iowa's small towns, farmland, and wildlife areas.

• The Wabash Trace Nature Trail: A 63-mile rail-trail from Council Bluffs to Blanchard, known for its tree-canopied stretches and iconic Thursday Taco Rides.

• The T-Bone Trail in western Iowa, which connects Lake View to Audubon over 21 miles of scenic byway.

• The Sauk Rail Trail: A 33-mile trail in western-central Iowa that connects two state parks - Blackhawk Lake State Park and Swan Lake State Park.
  

These aren’t just trails - they’re outdoor classrooms, wellness routes, and tourism engines.

Iowa - Capital of Trails

Being the “Capital of Trails” isn’t just about mileage - it’s a mindset. In Iowa, trails are for everyone. They’re part of our daily commute, our weekend joyrides, our family memories, and even our economy. And it’s all thanks to the tireless work of visionaries, volunteers, city planners, landowners, and trail lovers like you.

How We Got Here

Iowa’s reputation as the “Capital of Trails” didn’t happen by chance - it’s the result of decades of community vision, strategic planning, and grassroots passion.

It all started with Iowa’s railroads. As train routes were abandoned in the 1970s and ’80s, local advocates and organizations like the Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation began converting these corridors into multi-use trails. The Cedar Valley Nature Trail, one of the Midwest’s first rail-trail success stories, lit the spark. From there, the state doubled down.

State programs like the Recreational Trails Program and the State Recreational Trails Fund helped cities, counties, and nonprofits build out miles of trail. By the early 2000s, the focus shifted from creating isolated paths to building a connected network - linking communities, parks, and even entire counties.

Today, Iowa boasts over 3,350 miles of trails, with many nationally-recognized trails systems many of which connect to each other making for some epic loops and miles. These trails power local economies, attract outdoor tourism, and promote year-round recreation.

Being the Capital of Trails is about more than miles. It’s a mindset. It’s Taco Rides on the Wabash Trace. It’s families biking the loop in Des Moines. It's communing to work. It’s volunteers clearing brush in the middle of summer. On Celebrate Trails Day, we don’t just enjoy the trails - we celebrate how far we’ve come and how connected we’ve become.

So when you head out on Celebrate Trails Day, know this:
You’re not just using a trail - you’re part of a movement that made Iowa a national leader in outdoor living.

Why It Matters

Health and Wellness

Trails are natural wellness centers - free, accessible, and restorative. Studies show trail users are more likely to meet daily physical activity recommendations. A 30-minute walk or ride can boost mood, improve cardiovascular health, and relieve stress.

Environmental Benefits

Every step or pedal stroke on a trail is a win for the planet. Trails reduce car trips, cut emissions, and often preserve green space and wildlife corridors.

Economic Growth

According to the Iowa Bicycle Coalition, bicycle tourism alone contributes $1.4 billion dollars annually to the state’s economy. Trails draw visitors to local restaurants, breweries, shops, and lodging - especially in rural communities.

Equity and Access

Trails offer free recreation for all - no membership fees, no fancy equipment required. That accessibility is critical for ensuring everyone, regardless of background or income, has the chance to explore and thrive.

How You Can Get Involved

There are dozens of ways to celebrate trails this April 26th:

1. Get Out and Ride (or Walk, or Run)

Plan your own adventure or meet up with friends for a ride on your favorite Iowa trail. Whether it’s 2 miles or 20, you’re participating by simply being there.

Need trail inspiration? BIKEIOWA’s Trail Finder and Travel Iowa's "Trails and Byways" are great places to start.

2. Join a Local Event

Many communities are planning Celebrate Trails Day events - guided rides, nature walks, volunteer cleanups, and more. Check with your local trail group or parks department. BIKEIOWA will be highlighting events throughout the state including a 24 mile ride on the Raccoon River Valley Trail starting in Yale and a trail clean-up day in Cedar Falls..

3. Support a Trail Organization

Groups like the Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation,Iowa Bicycle Coalition, and Friends of Central Iowa Trails and countless non-profits and volunteer organizations are constantly working behind the scenes to build, maintain, and advocate for trails. Consider becoming a member or donating. Reach out to us if you cannot locate a trail organization in your area.

4. Share Your Trail Story

Post your ride, walk, or run using hashtags like #CelebrateTrails, #IAtrails, #ThisIsIowa and #BIKEIOWA. Tell people why trails matter to you - your voice helps grow awareness.

5. Adopt-A-Trail or Volunteer

Many trail groups in Iowa have adopt-a-trail programs. Volunteer days often include litter pick-up, planting, or trail maintenance. A few hours of your time can make a lasting impact. Des Moines has one such Adopt-A-Trail program.

The Shiny and the Rusty

Let’s talk real for a moment. The shiny: Iowa’s trails are booming with new connections, upgraded amenities, and record ridership. The rusty: some trails still lack funding, suffer from flood damage, or need basic upkeep. Celebrate Trails Day reminds us that trails don’t take care of themselves - it’s up to us to ensure they’re protected and improved for generations to come.

Connect - Honor - Advocate

Trails are more than asphalt or gravel - they are connections. Between people, towns, ecosystems, and ideas. They are spaces for solitude and socializing, for training and leisure, for commuting and escape. Celebrate Trails Day is your invitation to honor these spaces - not just by using them, but by advocating for their future.

So come April 26th, grab your bike, lace your shoes, and hit the trails. Iowa’s calling. Let’s celebrate the paths that bring us together.

See you out there and RIDE SAFE!