Follow that trail!

By Jan Clarke

In Iowa, there truly is a trail for every outdoor passion: walking, hiking, running, in-line skating, bicycling, horseback riding, cross-country skiing, snowmobiling and more!

Iowa's trails wind through a wide range of habitats, and many of these beautiful natural areas are accessible to mobility-impaired visitors. Marvel at the expanse of a tall-grass prairie, identify birdsong in upland forest, relax at the edge of a cascading stream, or rest your hand against a cool, rugged bluff.

Iowa has roughly 1,200 miles of scenic multi-use trails. In addition, state and county parks boast many more miles of hiking and equestrian trails. And don't forget the extensive trail systems in Iowa's state forests: Backbone, White Pine Hollow and Yellow River in northeast Iowa; Holst in central Iowa; Loess Hills in the western part of the state; and Shimek and Stephens toward the south.

Canoeists and kayakers will appreciate the mapped-out low-head dams, portages, and waterfront campsites of Iowa's 12 water trails. Two of the water trails are state-designated, and more are being developed by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources.

Like a little history with your trail? Hike sacred ground at Effigy Mounds National Monument in northeast Iowa or walk in presidential shoes at the Herbert Hoover National Historic Site in West Branch.

In Council Bluffs, you'll find the intersection of two historic treks. Drive, boat, or bike along the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail, which follows the Missouri River; or take a spin on the Mormon Pioneer National Historic Trail, which begins in Nauvoo, Illinois, and cuts across the southern part of Iowa.

Learn more:

• Iowa Department of Natural Resources (for the state forests and water trails)

• National Park Service

• Iowa biking trails

• Iowa equestrian trails

• Iowa water trails

• Cross-country skiing trails

• Iowa hiking & running trails

• Iowa mountain bike trails

• Iowa ATV/dirt bike trails

• Iowa snowmobile trails