Ellsworth Iowa HIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE


Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near Ellsworth, Iowa.



1. JewEllsworth Trail

Paved Scenic Connector. Smooth 3.5-mile paved trail links Jewell and Ellsworth. Cross picturesque bridges over the Skunk River and pass abundant wildlife. Perfect for relaxed walks, runs, or cycling in all seasons.

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2. Munn Woods North Trail

Wooded Urban Escape. Short and shaded 0.7-mile trail tucked in natural woodland. Great for a peaceful stroll close to the city. Watch for birds and spring wildflowers along winding paths.

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3. Lake Cornelia Nature Trail

Lakeside Loop Adventure. Easy loop skirting the sparkling edges of Lake Cornelia. Enjoy wide-open water views and fishing spots. Quiet trail popular for birdwatching and easy family walks.

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4. High Trestle Trail

Iconic Bridge Views. Famed 25.8-mile trail with the dramatic High Trestle Bridge as its showstopper. Bridge features unique geometric art and stunning river valley panoramas. Trail is ideal for both hiking and cycling with a mix of easy and moderate sections.

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5. Union River Trail Riverwalk

Riverside Wildlife Path. Peaceful trail hugging the Union River's edge. ADA-accessible segment leads to a scenic overlook perfect for wildlife spotting. Past the overlook, adventurous hikers navigate stone steps to a dam viewpoint.

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6. Ellsworth Trail

Quiet Town Connector. Flat, paved path linking Ellsworth Falls with downtown. Traffic-free and popular for dog-walking and short, casual strolls. Year-round appeal, though winter brings snow and ice.

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7. Meadowbrook Forest

Forest Exploration Trek. Natural surface trails wind through a protected forest. Listen for birdsong and spot lush greenery throughout. A tranquil escape for hikers seeking a true nature immersion.

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8. Red Rock Prairie Trail

Prairie Open Views. Expansive multi-use trail running through quintessential Iowa prairie. Flat, wide-open stretches make for easy walking or biking. Enjoy panoramic skies and wildflowers in bloom.

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9. Meredith Trail

Riverside Urban Path. Follows the Des Moines River with a mix of city and nature. Smooth surface suits both walkers and cyclists. Enjoy river overlooks and public art installations along the route.

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10. Chichaqua Valley Trail

Long Scenic Ride. Nearly 26-mile trail weaving through woodlands, wetlands, and farmland. Trail features smooth cement and asphalt sections, noted for peace and quiet. Great for long-distance hiking or cycling with plenty of wildlife sightings.

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