Outdoor Trail Happiness
Like any good Midwesterner, I have plenty to say about the weather at almost any point in time. It's socially conditioned into us to be able to strike up conversations completely centered around what temperature it is, what the forecast is predicting, and how our local weather people routinely get it wrong. However, one exception to the head shaking and frustration expressed is when our spring weather finally hits. Around here, once we hit 50 degrees, we have half of our population running around in shorts and sandals. This is our light at the end of the winter tunnel!
Once we get to the milder temps, you will see most of the city out and about, enjoying what this area has to offer. One of the unique points of Cedar Rapids is that even though we are a sprawling city, we also are surrounded by nature. Nowhere will you find that more apparent than if you head to one of our parks (city OR state) or walking trails. If you haven't spent any time at any of the following, you are missing out!
Cedar Lake Loop Trail: 1.6 miles, and paved, this trail is perfect for walking, running, or biking.
Cedar River Trail: One of the longest trails, this one is paved, and 12.6 miles long! If you want to get the kids out of the house, or stretch your legs, OR just take in the beauty of native grasses and wildflowers planted along the way, get on out here.
Prairie Fishery Loop Park Trail: 1.7 miles long and paved, this is a wonderful spot for river and fishery viewing, plus bird and wildlife watching.
Sac and Fox Trail: This crushed limestone trail is 7.2 miles, and the oldest National Recreation Trail in Iowa! This trail loops through woods and open prairie areas, and even permits equestrian use (just pick up after yourselves, and keep horses off of the bridges-common sense and courtesy, right?).
Honorable mentions-don't forget to check out the trails located within the following parks-Palisades State Park, Cherokee Park, Cherry Hill Park, Ellis Park, Noelridge Park, and Nixon Park. Perfect for combining play and exercise!
There's no excuse to stay inside-get out and explore some nature!
Once we get to the milder temps, you will see most of the city out and about, enjoying what this area has to offer. One of the unique points of Cedar Rapids is that even though we are a sprawling city, we also are surrounded by nature. Nowhere will you find that more apparent than if you head to one of our parks (city OR state) or walking trails. If you haven't spent any time at any of the following, you are missing out!
Cedar Lake Loop Trail: 1.6 miles, and paved, this trail is perfect for walking, running, or biking.
Cedar River Trail: One of the longest trails, this one is paved, and 12.6 miles long! If you want to get the kids out of the house, or stretch your legs, OR just take in the beauty of native grasses and wildflowers planted along the way, get on out here.
Prairie Fishery Loop Park Trail: 1.7 miles long and paved, this is a wonderful spot for river and fishery viewing, plus bird and wildlife watching.
Sac and Fox Trail: This crushed limestone trail is 7.2 miles, and the oldest National Recreation Trail in Iowa! This trail loops through woods and open prairie areas, and even permits equestrian use (just pick up after yourselves, and keep horses off of the bridges-common sense and courtesy, right?).
Honorable mentions-don't forget to check out the trails located within the following parks-Palisades State Park, Cherokee Park, Cherry Hill Park, Ellis Park, Noelridge Park, and Nixon Park. Perfect for combining play and exercise!
There's no excuse to stay inside-get out and explore some nature!
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