The best traffic-free bike rides in Boone County
4.6
(14)
292
riders
12
rides
If you've ever tried to plan road cycling in Boone County, you know how quickly the options can feel overwhelming. It's tough to tell which routes are genuinely worth your time and effort, and which are just filler. That's where we come in. Our komoot community has mapped, ridden, and reviewed countless routes here, so we've curated a shortlist of the very best to save you the guesswork.
Road cycling in Boone County is all about serene, car-free experiences on converted rail trails. You'll find yourself gliding through open fields, past agricultural areas, and alongside river valleys, enjoying a truly peaceful ride. The terrain is mostly flat to gently rolling, offering everything from easy loops perfect for a relaxed afternoon to more extended moderate rides for when you want to stretch your legs.
If you only do one ride, we'd start with the popular High Trestle Trail Bridge loop from Woodward, a moderate 28.5 miles (45.9 km) that offers expansive views across the Des Moines River valley. For a slightly shorter, equally rewarding experience, the High Trestle Trail Bridge – High Trestle Trail loop from Madrid is an easy 16.9 miles (27.2 km) that showcases the iconic bridge. With an average rating of 4.8 stars from our community, you know these routes are worth your legs. Dive in and discover your next favorite ride!
Last updated: May 27, 2026
5.0
(1)
25
riders
45.9km
02:34
170m
180m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
3.0
(2)
25
riders
27.2km
01:28
120m
120m
The High Trestle Trail Bridge – High Trestle Trail loop from Madrid offers a unique road cycling experience on a smooth, paved rail trail. You'll glide through Iowa's rolling farmland and shaded tree clusters, with the journey culminating at the iconic High Trestle Trail Bridge. This easy 16.9-mile (27.2 km) route, with only 392 feet (119 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 1 hour and 27 minutes, making it a perfect, accessible ride for many.
To make the most of your visit, start your ride from Madrid, Iowa, where you'll find convenient access points. The trail's rail-to-trail nature ensures a mostly level grade, ideal for a relaxed pace. For an unforgettable experience, plan to be on the High Trestle Trail Bridge around dusk to witness its stunning blue LED illumination, which creates a captivating tunnel effect.
This trail is renowned for its centerpiece, the High Trestle Trail Bridge, recognized as one of the largest trail bridges globally. Beyond its impressive size and artistic lighting, the route carries historical significance as a former Union Pacific Railroad line, with the bridge's design echoing the area's coal mining past. It's a popular, award-winning destination that also connects to a broader network of central Iowa trails.
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5.0
(1)
17
riders
44.0km
03:32
310m
310m
The Big Creek State Park – Neal Smith Trail loop offers a diverse road cycling experience, guiding you through wooded areas, along the Des Moines River, and past vibrant wildflower meadows. You'll enjoy sweeping views of Saylorville Lake and might even spot deer, rabbits, or beavers. The route is not a flat rail-trail; instead, it features rolling hills and curves, providing a dynamic ride through mature forests, rolling prairie, and oak savannas.
This moderate 27.3-mile (44.0 km) loop, with 1009 feet (307 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 3 hours and 32 minutes to complete. While the trail is generally well-maintained, be aware that pavement conditions can vary, with some sections having cracks or tree root ridges. Numerous access points, restrooms, and picnic areas are available along the trail, making it easy to plan your ride.
As a designated National Recreational Trail and part of the American Discovery Trail, the Neal Smith Trail is a significant cycling destination in Central Iowa. It connects with other routes, like the John Pat Dorrian Trail, allowing for longer adventures. The trail's blend of natural beauty, varied terrain, and its connection to a broader network makes it a popular choice for cyclists seeking both a workout and scenic exploration.
5.0
(1)
24
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
11
riders
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Tips from the Community
One of my favorite state parks even if they don’t care about cyclists as much as boaters. Ride the road not the neglected bike trail.
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Bike maintenance area (including tools and air pump) and shelter right next to viewing area.
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Pause your ride at Saylorville Dam for scenic views. This dam on the Des Moines River in Iowa is only 11 miles upstream from Des Moines, offering a great place to hop off your bike and take a break!
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The 26-mile Neal Smith Trail rolls along the banks of the Des Moines River through the Ding Darling Greenway conservation area and weaves its way through a variety of landscapes, including riverbanks, wildflower meadows, lakeshores and dense forests. It is fully paved and traffic free, so it is a great way to move about the city along with the other connector trails.
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The 26-mile Neal Smith Trail rolls along the banks of the Des Moines River through the Ding Darling Greenway conservation area and weaves its way through a variety of landscapes, including riverbanks, wildflower meadows, lakeshores and dense forests. It is fully paved and traffic free so it is a great way to move about the city along with the other connector trails.
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Big Creek State Park is a very popular park for cycling and hiking. Big Creek Lake, at the center of the park, is the largest lake in the Iowa State Park system. The park has a swimming beach, paved bike and walking paths, restrooms and picnic areas.
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The High Trestle Trail is a 25-mile trail that runs through five towns. It was built on an old rail bed and is mostly flat. It is fully paved and is not a difficult path, so it is a great place for a family ride.
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The High Trestle Trail Bridge is a 1/2 mile long, 13-story high bridge that spans the Des Moines River Valley. It is one of the world's longest trail bridge.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many traffic-free road cycling routes are available in Boone County?
Boone County offers 12 dedicated traffic-free road cycling routes. These routes are designed for a smooth and uninterrupted cycling experience, with 5 easy and 7 moderate options to choose from.
What kind of terrain can I expect on traffic-free road cycling routes in Boone County?
The traffic-free routes in Boone County primarily feature rail trails, offering generally flat to gently rolling terrain. You'll find paved surfaces ideal for road bikes, such as the High Trestle Trail – High Trestle Trail Bridge loop from Madrid, which provides a scenic and accessible ride.
Are there any easy, beginner-friendly traffic-free road cycling routes in Boone County?
Yes, Boone County has 5 easy traffic-free road cycling routes perfect for beginners or those looking for a relaxed ride. A great option is the High Trestle Trail – High Trestle Trail loop from Madrid, which covers 21.9 km with minimal elevation gain.
What are the most popular traffic-free cycling trails in Boone County?
The High Trestle Trail is a highly popular choice for traffic-free cycling in Boone County. Routes like the High Trestle Trail Bridge loop from Woodward are frequently enjoyed for their scenic views and dedicated cycling paths.
Are there any circular traffic-free road cycling routes in Boone County?
Yes, many of the traffic-free routes in Boone County are loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the High Trestle Trail Bridge – High Trestle Trail Bridge loop from Perry High School offers a convenient circular ride.
What can I see along the traffic-free road cycling routes in Boone County?
Along the traffic-free routes, you can explore notable landmarks such as the iconic High Trestle Trail Bridge, which is a major attraction. You'll also ride along the scenic High Trestle Trail itself, offering picturesque views of the surrounding landscape.
What do other road cyclists enjoy most about traffic-free cycling in Boone County?
The komoot community highly rates the traffic-free cycling experience in Boone County, with an average score of 4.85 stars from 17 ratings. Reviewers often praise the dedicated, car-free paths, the scenic rail trail experience, and the accessibility of routes like those around the High Trestle Trail.
Are there any traffic-free routes that pass through state parks or natural areas?
Yes, some routes offer access to natural areas. The Big Creek State Park – Neal Smith Trail loop from Big Creek State Park is a great example, allowing you to cycle through a beautiful park setting with dedicated trails.
What is the longest traffic-free road cycling route in Boone County?
One of the longer traffic-free options is the High Trestle Trail Bridge loop from Woodward, which spans approximately 45.9 kilometers (28.5 miles), offering a substantial ride without vehicle interference.
Are there any specific highlights or points of interest for cyclists in Boone County?
Beyond the routes themselves, the High Trestle Trail Bridge is a must-see highlight, especially at dusk when its lights illuminate. The entire High Trestle Trail is considered a highlight for its dedicated path and scenic beauty.
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