4.9
(7717)
17,296
hikers
01:30
5.90km
10m
Hiking
Hike the easy 3.7-mile Iowa River Trail for river views, wooded paths, and city parks, perfect for all skill levels.
Last updated: February 26, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
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5.90 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
5.40 km
250 m
243 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
5.26 km
323 m
209 m
107 m
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Elevation
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Today
Friday 8 May
23°C
7°C
16 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 19.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
The Iowa River Trail, particularly the Iowa River Corridor Trail segment, is predominantly paved, wide, and well-maintained. While generally flat, some sections do feature manageable hills. Its easy designation makes it suitable for hikers of all skill levels.
You can access the trail from various points, including city parks like Napoleon Park, Riverside Park, and City Park. The Terry Trueblood Recreation Area also provides access. Many sections run through or connect to the University of Iowa campus, offering additional access points.
Yes, dogs are permitted on the trail. Please ensure your dog is kept on a leash at all times to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.
The trail offers beautiful scenery year-round. With its paved surface, it's accessible in most seasons. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant foliage, while summer provides lush green views along the river. Winter hiking is possible, weather permitting, but be mindful of ice or snow.
No, there are no permits or fees required to access or hike on the Iowa River Trail itself. It is a public multi-use path.
While the Iowa River Trail passes through the Terry Trueblood Recreation Area, there are typically no specific fees for hiking on the trail within the park. Standard park regulations, such as keeping dogs on leashes and respecting natural areas, apply.
Hikers can enjoy diverse scenery, including gorgeous river views along the Iowa River, scenic wooded areas, and shady river shorelines. The trail also connects to and passes through numerous city parks and the University of Iowa campus. The River Landing Spur is particularly noted for its scenic beauty.
Yes, the route also passes through sections of the South Gilbert Street Sidepath, South Gilbert Street, Iowa River Trail - Terry Trueblood to Waterworks Prairie Park, and South Riverside Drive Sidepath. It also offers numerous offshoots that connect to other local trails like the Clear Creek Trail and the Lower Finkbine Trail.
Yes, the trail provides an invaluable off-road link between Iowa City, Coralville, and North Liberty. You can easily detour to explore attractions like Waterworks Prairie Park or even Iowa City's historic downtown district and the University's main library, where you'll find various amenities.
Absolutely. Given its predominantly paved, wide, and well-maintained surface, and its 'easy' difficulty rating, the trail is very suitable for beginners, families, and hikers of all skill levels. The manageable hills and diverse scenery make it an enjoyable experience.
The trail offers access to several city parks including Napoleon Park, Riverside Park, and City Park, as well as the expansive University of Iowa campus. The River Landing Spur is highlighted as one of the most scenic sections, and you can also take side trips to Waterworks Prairie Park or Iowa City's historic downtown.