July 2025 Adventures - Miles and Smiles in Iowa
July 2025 is Full of Adventures
First is a multi-day trip to Iowa to ride both the High Trestle and Raccoon River Valley Trails. Then a return trip to Iowa to participate in RAGBRAI LII starting on July 19th.
High Trestle Trail Overview
The High Trestle Trail is a scenic, 25-mile multi-use trail in central Iowa that stretches from Ankeny to Woodward. One of its most iconic features is the breathtaking High Trestle Bridge—a half-mile long, 130-foot-high structure that spans the Des Moines River Valley. Known for its striking steel frames and dramatic nighttime lighting, the bridge pays tribute to the region’s railroad and mining history. Ideal for biking, walking, and running, the trail winds through prairie, farmland, and river landscapes, offering a unique blend of art, nature, and adventure.
Raccoon River Valley Trail Overview
The Raccoon River Valley Trail is a 89-mile paved loop in west-central Iowa, popular among cyclists, runners, and outdoor enthusiasts. It connects 14 communities and winds through scenic farmland, woodlands, and river corridors. Built on a former railroad line, the trail offers gentle grades and smooth surfaces, making it accessible for all levels. Highlights include the Waukee trailhead gateway, historic bridges, and connections to other major trails like the High Trestle Trail. Rich in small-town charm and natural beauty, the Raccoon River Valley Trail is one of the premier long-distance recreational trails in the Midwest.
Connector Trail (Perry–Woodward): A nine-mile paved link between the towns of Perry and Woodward connecting the RRVT with the High Trestle Trail. Completed in 2024, this trail creates a continuous 120-mile loop in central Iowa.
RAGBRAI LII Overview
RAGBRAI LII: A Ride Across Iowa with a Twist
July 19–26, 2025 • 406 miles • 10,487 feet elevation gain
RAGBRAI LII marks the 52nd annual Register’s Annual Great Bicycle Ride Across Iowa—a legendary week-long ride drawing cyclists from around the world. This year’s route adds a fresh twist: a dip into Minnesota, a unique gravel stretch, and a lineup of welcoming small-town communities across northern Iowa.
The Route
Covering approximately 406 miles and climbing 10,487 feet, RAGBRAI LII is the 2nd shortest and 6th flattest ride in the event’s history—making it accessible to both seasoned riders and newcomers.
Overnight Towns:
1. Start: Orange City
2. Milford
3. Estherville
4. Forest City
5. Iowa Falls
6. Cedar Falls
7. Oelwein
8. Finish: Guttenberg
Route Highlights
• Minnesota Segment: For the first time in RAGBRAI history, riders will venture into Minnesota for ~15 miles before returning to Iowa—a rare border-crossing adventure.
• Gravel Challenge: Day 6 offers a 14-mile gravel segment between Dunkerton and Fairbank—optional, but a fun opportunity for off-road enthusiasts.
• Diverse Scenery: Riders will pass through rolling farmland, quaint downtowns, and river valleys—culminating with a celebratory dip in the Mississippi River at Guttenberg.
The Experience
More than just a ride, RAGBRAI is a moving festival of music, food, storytelling, and small-town hospitality. Each host town rolls out the welcome mat with festivities, home-cooked meals, and community pride. It’s as much about connection as it is about cycling.
Why Ride RAGBRAI LII?
• Perfect for cyclists of all levels
• Unique route twist with Minnesota and gravel options
• Strong community support and logistics
• Part of cycling history and tradition
• Experience Iowa’s heartland from the saddle
RAGBRAI isn’t just a bike ride—it’s a week of camaraderie, discovery, and celebration across the open roads of America’s Midwest. RAGBRAI LII promises a ride that’s memorable, meaningful, and just adventurous enough to keep your wheels (and spirit) turning.
