Pin to Trip

Fairmount Park Trails

Overview

Escape into the natural beauty of the 105-acre Fairmount Park, where winding wooded trails through the globally significant Loess Hills create one of Council Bluffs' most rewarding hiking experiences. Just minutes from downtown, the trails offer an unexpected retreat from the city, inviting visitors to enjoy fresh air, changing elevations, and quiet moments immersed in nature. Throughout the year, the trails showcase the beauty of every season, with vibrant fall foliage making Fairmount Park one of the metro's premier destinations for autumn hikes and peaceful outdoor escapes.

Hikers can enjoy the approximately 1-mile Fairmount Park Loop or continue exploring interconnected 3 km and 5 km hiking routes that wind through the wooded hillsides, leading to scenic overlooks and connecting to the many recreational opportunities throughout the park. Looking to extend your outdoor adventure? Challenge yourself on Fairmount Park's scenic disc golf course, let the kids enjoy the playground or splash pad, or simply relax beneath the trees while taking in panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Trail access is available from both the Fairmount Park entrance and the Gibraltar Trailhead, located within Council Bluffs' historic Gibraltar neighborhood. Before or after your hike, extend your visit by exploring nearby landmarks, including the Historic General Dodge House and August Beresheim House, offering another opportunity to experience the city's rich history. Dogs are welcome on the trails when kept on a physical leash, making Fairmount Park a favorite destination for hiking with four-legged companions. Looking to let your pup run off-leash afterward? Valley View Dog Park is just minutes away and features separate fenced areas for large and small dogs.

Whether you're looking for a peaceful nature walk, a moderately challenging hillside hike, spectacular fall colors, or a quiet place to recharge, the Fairmount Park Trails offer a scenic outdoor experience unlike anywhere else in the metro.