Follow This Abandoned Railroad Trail For One Of The Most Unique Hikes In Iowa
Iowa is full of trails that lead you to scenic overlooks, down into caves, along the river, and through the Loess Hills, but the most unique trail in Iowa is actually a 63 mile former railroad track that’s been converted to a nature trail near Council Bluffs.
On the way, the trail passes through the towns of Mineola, Silver City, Malvern, Imogene, Shenandoah, Coin and Blanchard.
At its peak, the Wabash Railroad operated on over 4,300 miles of track throughout the entire Midwestern United States. Wabash merged with the Norfolk and Western Railway in 1964, and then into the Norfolk Southern Railway in 1991.
Check out the Wabash Trace Nature Trail official website for a full list of events, marathons and rides.
This coverted train station serves up delicious breakfasts, lunches and dinners.
Over the miles of trail, you'll cross 72 bridges that once carried rail passengers over Iowa's creeks, rivers and streams.
They were dropped into the river by a derailment in the 1960s.
The Wabash Trace Nature Trail follows the meandering paths of the Silver Creek, Four Mile Creek, Tarkio Creek, and the Tarkio River.
Every Thursday, cyclists gather in Council Bluffs and ride to Mineola, Iowa. The 10 mile ride brings the crowd to the Mineola Steakhouse to enjoy dinner before newfound friends and old pals head out on their way back to Council Bluffs.
Have you ever hiked or biked the Wabash Trace Nature Trail? Tell us your favorite town you passed through in the comments below!
For another unique hike in the area, check out this beautiful trail high in the Loess Hills.
