Outdoor Recreation

Nothing but cornfields? Look again.

What’s your thing? Kayaking a wild river? Biking a woodland path? Maybe camping under more stars than you’ve ever seen? Nature has blessed the Mid-Iowa region with incredible beauty, and it’s all here for you to enjoy. Whatever you love to do in the great outdoors, you’ll find great outdoor experiences here.

The Mid-Iowa Region has:

•  More than 65 lakes, ponds and rivers, including the Boone River Trail, one of Iowa’s premiere paddling trails.
•  More than 60 miles of paved recreational trails and over 220 miles total for biking and hiking — more are under development.
•  More than 30 high-quality golf courses,  Most are public, have low greens fees and don’t require tee times.

Highlights

The Iowa River Green Belt follows the river through 42 miles of bluffs and valleys, streams and gorges in Hardin County. The Green Belt is home to an amazing diversity of plants and wildlife and is a great place for hiking, biking, canoeing, camping, fishing and hunting.

Two of Iowa’s famous scenic Water Trails run through the Mid-Iowa region. The fast-descending Boone River Water Trail offers kayakers and canoeists exciting runs for beginners to advance paddlers. The Des Moines River Trail is a longer and more relaxing way to view the many species of birds traveling the major flyway there.

Webster City is nestled on the west bank of the Boone River, which provides paddlers, bikers and hikers the chance to adventure through woodlands and prairies.

The Water’s Edge Nature Center in Kosuth County features many species of wildlife to view in restored prairie and wetlands along the shores of Smith Lake.

The Three Rivers Trail is 32 miles of converted railroad path that crosses high over the Boone River and two forks of the Des Moines River and runs from Rolfe to Eagle Grove.