Celebration Commemorates Final Paving of the Cedar Valley Nature Trail

Black Hawk and Linn County Conservation hosted a ribbon cutting today to celebrate the paving completion of the original 52-mile Cedar Valley Nature Trail. This recreation corridor was initially developed from an abandoned rail line between Hiawatha and Evansdale decades ago. Today's commemoration also marked 40 years since the initial trail dedication, further underscoring the value of community recreational trails. The event was attended by many of those who have played a role in its development, including trail advocates, community supporters, state and local officials.

"When we embarked on this journey to create this trail system, our vision was clear: to provide a space where people of all ages and abilities could engage in healthy activities, come together to enjoy the beauty of nature, and forge connections with one another," said Dennis Goemaat Linn County Conservation Director. "Today, that vision becomes a reality." added Goemaat.

Abandonment of the WCF&N railroad line in 1976 prompted trail enthusiasts to explore a "rails to trails" program, converting the former rail corridor into a multi county trail. Along with a coalition of trail supporters known as Iowa Rails to Trails and the Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation, 52 miles of public right of way along Black Hawk, Benton, Buchanan and Linn Counties was purchased in 1980, with management by the Linn and Black Hawk County Conservation Boards. After more than 30,000 hours of volunteer labor, the dirt trail was officially dedicated in 1984 by Iowa Governor Terry Branstad.

"The Cedar Valley Nature Trail represents the spirit of our communities coming together to enhance our quality of life," said Mike Hendrickson, Black Hawk County Conservation Director. "It is a testament to what we can achieve when we work united by a common goal. Finishing the hard surfacing of the Cedar Valley Nature Trail represents the achievement of years of effort and commitment, opening a new chapter in showcasing the significance and benefits of recreational trails within our communities."

Hard surfacing the Cedar Valley Nature trail began in the early 2000's as a result of growing interest and more funding opportunities. The final 16 miles were completed in September 2024, thanks in part to a Destination Iowa grant. This Federal grant award administered by the Iowa Economic Development Authority is designed to bolster the quality of life in Iowa's communities and attract visitors and new residents to the state.

"Recreational trails are a key driver of Iowa's tourism, combining outdoor adventure with economic growth," said Debi Durham, Director of the Iowa Economic Development Authority and Iowa Finance Authority. "IEDA has supported trail development for decades. In the last five years alone, between Destination Iowa and CAT, the state has awarded more than $24 million to trail projects, representing more than $79 million in trail development. The Cedar Valley Nature Trail is a vital component to Iowa's outdoor recreation opportunities."

Black Hawk and Linn County Conservation Boards continue to promote the wide range of benefits provided by the trail system including improved physical health, expanded recreational opportunities, mental health advantages, and community connections. Collaborations, which include the Cedar Valley Trails Partnership in Black Hawk County and the Linn County Trails Association, continue to help advance trail advocacy goals and creating a more accessible and enjoyable outdoor experience, making a real difference in promoting trail development and preservation.

About the Cedar Valley Nature Trail:

• Black Hawk County Conservation owns 26 miles of the original trail in Black Hawk and Buchanan Counties from Evansdale to the Bear Creek Bridge at the Buchanan/Benton County Line. Linn County Conservation owns the remaining 26 miles from the bridge through Benton County to Hiawatha in Linn County. The original Cedar Valley Nature Trail passes through Gilbertville, LaPorte City, Brandon, Urbana, Center Point, Lafayette, Robins, and Hiawatha.

• With continued development, the trail now extends south into Johnson County to Solon, passing through Cedar Rapids and Ely. The trail extends north through Evansdale, Waterloo and Cedar Falls, connecting to the Cedar Valley Lake Trail Network

• The Center Point Depot and Museum and La Porte City Station along the trail are listed on the National Historic Register of Historic Places.

• The Cedar Valley Nature Trail is part of the nationwide Great American Rail-Trail and the American Discovery Trail.

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