The Cedar Valley walking and biking trails offer the residents of the community and all who visit a safe area to bike, run and walk at their leisure. The trails are well maintained by park rangers and the individuals that use the trails. The trails wind threw both communities with legs that go as far North as Waverly and as far South as Cedar Rapids. The 14th Annual edar Valley Trails Festival will take place from August 5th to August 9th. The main location for theis event is George Wyth State Park located at 2659 Wyth Rd Waterloo, IA 50703-9683. To speak to someone specifically about the event, please phone – (319) 232-5505. Contact the Chamber of Commerce in Cedar Falls for specific even details.
When accessing the trails, main entrances are at Hartman Nature Reserve and George Wyth State Park. There are two major old railroad trail lines that are being utilized as walking and biking trails. These include the Waverly Rail Trail from Waverly to Denver, as well as the Cedar Valley Nature Trail which connects Evansdale (Waterloo) to Hiawatha (Cedar Rapids). Of the over 100+ miles of trails, 80 miles are concreted making travel easy. The trails may be accessed at numerous areas throughout the cities. These trails are part of the Cedar Valley Lakes Trail System.
The trails are used for numerous activities. For people who enjoy walking, jogging, running, biking, roller-blading, photography, or cross-country skiing, the trail system surrounding the Waterloo and Cedar Falls area is great. The trails are beautiful during all four seasons. Depending on your preference for enjoying the trails, your activities will dictate the season you will enjoy. While utilizing the trail system, please be courteous to others and when you are getting close enough to pass them on the left side say “on your left!” This will prevent accidents and help everyone to stay safe.
In August each year, the Cedar Trails Festival is held to inform and involve the community with the trail system. Fun activities are planned for both the young and old. The kick off begins with a walk on the trails at 8:00 am in the morning. Different markers have been set so individuals will have the opportunity to walk different distances. A trail cruise takes individuals over the age of 55 on an hour ride over part of the trail system. A bike rodeo is sponsored each year that focuses on skill, not speed. All ages are welcome. A candlelit night ride is sponsored so people may enjoy the park trails by candlelight. To conclude the Cedar Valley Trail Festival, a poker ride takes place on Sunday. The poker ride consists of find clues on the trails and bringing them back to a designated area and finding out who has the best poker hand. Check out more information on the Cedar Trails Festival at www.americantrails.org.
The Cedar Valley Trails offer many opportunities for all ages. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy the ever-changing face of the landscape while exercising and utilizing the trail system. Find out more information at www.cedarfallstourism.org. While using the trails, don’t forget to enjoy the parks, local scenery, and restaurants.
