Wabash Trace Nature Trail

Overview

Beginning in Council Bluffs, the Wabash Trace Nature Trail stretches more than 63 miles through the Loess Hills and Southwest Iowa countryside to the Iowa–Missouri border, making it one of the Midwest's premier rail-trail adventures. Built along the former Wabash Railroad corridor, the trail preserves a piece of Council Bluffs' railroad heritage. The city is also recognized as Mile Zero of the First Transcontinental Railroad, making Council Bluffs a fitting place to begin an unforgettable journey through landscapes shaped by both history and nature.

Your adventure begins at Iowa West Foundation Trailhead Park, the Council Bluffs trailhead to the Wabash, and the perfect starting point for exploring the trail and the city's growing network of outdoor recreation. Ride west to connect with the Lake Manawa Recreational Trails or explore nearby routes, including the Iowa School for the Deaf Nature Center Trail and Valley View Trail, creating access to more than 41 miles of connected recreational trails throughout Council Bluffs. Don't have a bike? Heartland Bike Share offers a convenient way to explore portions of Council Bluffs' connected trail system.

Whether you're exploring by foot, bicycle, wheelchair, cross-country skis, or snowshoes, the Wabash Trace offers memorable outdoor experiences in every season. To help preserve the trail's peaceful character, motorized vehicles are not permitted. Along the 63-mile route, visitors will cross more than 70 bridges, discover abundant wildlife, and travel through eight welcoming Southwest Iowa communities. During the summer, the legendary Thursday Night Taco Ride brings cyclists together for an evening of riding, live music, food, and small-town hospitality, making it one of the trail's most celebrated traditions.

Planning your ride? Approximate distances between trail communities include:

• Council Bluffs to Mineola: 9.6 miles
• Mineola to Silver City: 4.3 miles
• Silver City to Malvern: 8 miles
• Malvern to Imogene: 13.6 miles
• Imogene to Shenandoah: 8.9 miles
• Shenandoah to Coin: 12.5 miles
• Coin to Blanchard: 5.4 miles

After your adventure, cool down with a stop at nearby Tastee Treet, conveniently located across from the Iowa West Foundation Trailhead Park, or explore additional restaurants and communities along the trail to continue your journey. Trail users age 18 and older are required to purchase a Wabash Trace Nature Trail permit, with proceeds helping preserve and maintain this treasured outdoor resource for future generations.

For a local's insight on the trail, visit Melissa Peterson's Ride with GPS page! 

• AllTrails
• TrailLink
• Trail Website