Highlight • Lake
Lake Macbride State Park
Cycling
5.0
(1)
Lake Macbride State Park, Iowa's largest state park, encompasses 2,180 acres in Johnson County, eastern Iowa, near the city of Solon. This expansive park is centered around the 900-acre artificial Lake Macbride, a significant natural feature in the region. Named after Iowa conservationist Thomas Huston Macbride, the park sits at an elevation of approximately 210 meters, offering a diverse landscape of wooded valleys, oak/hickory forests, and restored prairie.
Visitors consistently praise Lake Macbride State Park for its wide array of outdoor activities and family-friendly atmosphere. Many are drawn to the scenic trails that wind through forests and prairies, providing opportunities for wildlife viewing, including various songbirds, shorebirds, waterfowl, and even ospreys. The park's diverse offerings make it a popular destination for those seeking a relaxing break in nature.
Before visiting, it's helpful to know that the park's terrain includes both paved and crushed limestone multi-use trails, suitable for various activities. Ample parking is available at multiple access points, including boat ramps and picnic areas. The park is divided into two units, with the northern unit accessible off County Road F-16 and the southern unit off County Road F-28, both near Solon.
Lake Macbride State Park offers year-round enjoyment, with activities shifting with the seasons. During warmer months, the lake is a hub for fishing, boating, and swimming, with a designated beach area and boat rentals available. Anglers can try their luck for muskellunge, walleye, channel catfish, and the rare spotted bass. In winter, the park transforms into a popular spot for cross-country skiing and snowmobiling, making it a versatile destination for seasonal activities.
Many visitors enjoy exploring the park's extensive network of over seven miles of hiking and multi-use trails. A notable five-mile crushed limestone trail connects the park to Solon, popular with cyclists, while another scenic 1.5-mile path runs between the beach and the lake's dam. These Lake Macbride State Park hiking trails offer varied experiences, from leisurely strolls to more active pursuits through its natural features.
Beyond the trails, the park provides a rich visitor experience with facilities like modern and primitive campgrounds, picnic areas, and a day-use lodge. The accessible fishing dock and twelve jetties ensure everyone can enjoy the lake's bounty. Whether you're watching birds, enjoying a picnic, or simply taking in the views, the park offers many memorable moments in the heart of Iowa.
With a variety of routes available for hiking, cycling, and trail running, planning your adventure at Lake Macbride State Park is straightforward. You can explore different paths and discover the park's many facets using the komoot route planner. From short, family-friendly walks to longer excursions, there are options for all activity levels, making it easy to find the perfect way to experience this cherished Iowa landmark.
Tips
September 21, 2023
Cycling
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Lake Macbride State Park
5.0
(1)
2
riders
79.5km
05:07
530m
530m
The Iowa City to Lake Macbride State Park loop via Iowa River Corridor Trail offers a dynamic touring cycling experience, transitioning from the paved paths of Iowa City's riverfront to the rolling hills and diverse terrain surrounding Lake Macbride. You'll pedal past the University of Iowa campus, enjoy scenic river vistas, and then immerse yourself in the natural beauty of oak/hickory forests and restored prairies around Sugar Bottom Park and Lake Macbride. The route promises expansive lake views and shaded shorelines, making for a truly engaging ride.
This difficult 49.4-mile (79.5 km) loop, with its 1744 feet (532 metres) of elevation gain, is a substantial undertaking, typically requiring about 5 hours and 7 minutes of riding. Be prepared for varied surfaces, including crushed stone and potentially unpaved sections, especially as you approach Lake Macbride State Park. The presence of "pretty big hills" between North Liberty and Iowa City, and a "huge hill" on the Solon-Lake Macbride trail, means this route is best for advanced touring cycling enthusiasts looking for a workout.
This loop is a fantastic way to explore the diverse landscapes of Johnson County, Iowa, connecting urban centers with significant natural landmarks. The Iowa River Corridor Trail is a well-utilized local gem, and its connection to Lake Macbride State Park, named after the "father" of Iowa conservation, Thomas Macbride, highlights the region's commitment to preserving its natural beauty. It's a journey through both recreational and historically significant areas.
5
riders
31.7km
02:04
210m
210m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
riders
46.9km
03:15
370m
370m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Elevation 210 m
Weather
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Frequently Asked Questions
What unique fish species can anglers expect to find in Lake Macbride?
Lake Macbride is a popular fishing destination, notably one of the few places in Iowa where the prized Kentucky spotted bass can be caught. Anglers can also find muskellunge, walleye, and channel catfish.
Are there any specific motor restrictions for boats on Lake Macbride?
Yes, motorboats on Lake Macbride have a 5 mph speed limit. Additionally, a 10 hp motor limit is in effect during the peak season, which runs from Memorial Day to Labor Day. For those seeking higher speeds, the adjacent Coralville Lake permits powerboats and jet skis.
What types of trails are available at Lake Macbride State Park, and what activities are they suitable for?
The park features over seven miles of hiking and multi-use trails that wind through oak/hickory forests and restored Iowa prairie. These include a five-mile crushed limestone trail connecting the park to Solon, popular with cyclists, and a 1.5-mile scenic trail between the beach and the lake's dam. Trails are suitable for hiking, biking, and trail running, with some sections also used for cross-country skiing and snowmobiling in winter.
Does Lake Macbride State Park offer camping facilities?
Yes, the park provides two distinct camping experiences. The modern campground in the northern unit offers electric and full hookup sites, along with showers and restrooms. For a more rustic experience, a non-modern, primitive campground is located in the southern unit, providing non-electric sites in a shaded setting near the lake.
Is Lake Macbride State Park suitable for families with children?
Absolutely! Lake Macbride State Park is highly regarded as a family-friendly destination. It offers a swimming beach, playgrounds, picnic areas with reservable shelters, and a frisbee golf course in the southern unit. The diverse range of activities, from easy trails to boating and fishing, ensures there's something for all ages.
What are the options for boat rentals at Lake Macbride?
The park's boat rental facility offers a variety of options, including pontoons, motorboats, canoes, kayaks, and paddleboats. This allows visitors to enjoy the lake regardless of whether they own their own watercraft.
Are dogs allowed on the trails at Lake Macbride State Park?
Generally, dogs are welcome on trails in Iowa State Parks, provided they are kept on a leash no longer than six feet and owners clean up after them. It's always a good idea to check the latest regulations on the Iowa DNR website for any specific park rules or restricted areas.
What historical significance does Lake Macbride State Park hold?
The park was established in 1937, with significant contributions from the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in the 1930s, who constructed facilities like the stone shelter and beach building. Both the park and the lake are named after Thomas Huston Macbride, a renowned Iowa conservationist and former University of Iowa president, often called the "father of Iowa conservation."
Are there any specific facilities for fishing at Lake Macbride State Park?
Yes, the park is well-equipped for anglers. It provides an accessible fishing dock, twelve fishing jetties, and a designated 24-hour fishing area along the shoreline. There are also seven boat ramps for easy water access.
What winter activities are available at Lake Macbride State Park?
During the winter months, Lake Macbride State Park transforms into a popular spot for cold-weather recreation. Visitors can enjoy cross-country skiing on its trails and snowmobiling, making it a versatile destination year-round.
Where is Lake Macbride State Park located, and how is it divided?
Lake Macbride State Park is situated in Johnson County, Iowa, near the city of Solon. It is divided into two units: a northern unit located about four miles west of Solon off County Road F-16, and a southern unit three miles west of Solon off County Road F-28 (Fifth Street).
Are there any entrance fees or permits required to visit Lake Macbride State Park?
As a state park in Iowa, Lake Macbride State Park generally does not require an entrance fee for day use. However, fees apply for camping, boat rentals, and reserving shelters or the day-use lodge. It's always advisable to check the Iowa DNR website for the most current information on any specific permits or fees for certain activities.