The centerpiece of the trail is a 13-story high, half-mile long bridge (one of the world's largest!) that crosses the Des Moines River Valley. Built on abandoned railroad bridge piers, the bridge includes six scenic overlooks where riders can pause and enjoy the view.
More than eight years in the making, the $15 million project includes 20 public grants and nearly 1000 private donors. It is the newest addition to the 670-mile Central Iowa Trail System.
On Saturday, April 30, the five communities will roll out the red carpet during special grand opening festivities. Activities begin with breakfasts in Slater, Ankeny and Madrid, and end with live music in Slater. Most events will take place between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Most are free and scheduled to take place rain or shine. Find more information at http://www.hightrestletrail.info/.
Fun fact: About one in five Iowans live within 30 minutes of the trail, and nearly one million live within an hour!
Jessica O'Riley, Iowa Tourism Office
6 comments:
I live just 2 blocks from the trail. I love it! I'm out on it almost everyday. It's fun to see the other "regulars" out on the trail.
This trail seems like the lifeblood on connection for Iowa.
Hello....we own the Two Bears Lodge B&B which looks at the bridge from our backyard. The celebration last weekend was amazing and we invite anyone looking to get away to a beautiful, quiet, Iowa weekend to visit us!!! We also have Snus Hill Winery 8 miles away for an enjoyable evening outing.
Tami Maritnek
Rode there on Mother's day! SO many enthusiastic visitors. YES, we used to live outside of Slater, the communities around there are awesome! Snus Hill Winery is a must see, the little grocery/nursery in Slater is great, the Caseys up there have soft serve Ice Cream! DM needs that!
Rode this trail today with my daughter. FABULOUS! I love the use of artistic framing along with the panoramic views of the Des Moines River Valley. One of the best additions to the Iowa landscape. KUDOS!
Glad you enjoyed the trail!
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