Let's #ExploreIowa!

Have you ever been guilty of taking your very own state for granted, at least in terms of fun things to see and do?

Full disclosure: I used to be guilty of that offense.

Then, a couple years ago, I discovered the world of biking...and things took a turn for the much better.

Although, I'd been no stranger to "in-town" cycling, the mileage wasn't very high and the consistency was marginal (at best). Then, a freaky stress fracture wreaked havoc on my foot. Running was out of commission for several months, but cycling got the green light go-ahead.

And I discovered the allure of exploring Iowa, via two wheels. 

There's numerous sights to see, many of which are courtesy of trails throughout the state. I reside in the central part of the state, so here's a few highlights (and significant landmarks) within an hour's drive from my house. 

The High Trestle Trail

This scenic trail features the famous High Trestle Trail Bridge, an architectual piece of beauty and wonder. If you start at the trailhead in Ankeny and ride to Woodward, you'll finish with a 50-mile round trip (after turning around at the Whistlin' Donkey Bar and Grill). You'll also pass through the towns of Slater, Sheldahl, and Madrid, which will allow for periodic rest-stops along the trek.

The Chichaqua Valley Trail

This partially-shaded trail runs between the towns of Baxter and Bondurant, but also features trailheads in Valeria and Mingo (if you don't wish to ride the entire length).

Gay Lea Wilson Trail

If you feel like exploring some of Des Moines, you can merge onto the Gay Lea Wilson Trail, which connects with the Chichaqua Valley Trail, further west of Bondurant. Another rail trail, this one features numerous options in numerous directions (to Ankeny if you wish to go north, or Pleasant Hill if you're headed south).

The Summerset Trail

Another scenic, tree-lined rail trail is that of the Summerset Trail. This well-shaded trail runs between Carlisle and Indianola, with a spance of about 12 miles, or a 24-mile round trip.

The Hoover Trail

If you're game for a venture from a small town (Solon) that ends in an artsy, historic section of a big city (Cedar Rapids), check out the Hoover Trail. 

This trail starts on the western edge of Solon, leads you through Ely, then connects to the southern end of the Cedar River Trail. As you enter Cedar Rapids, you'll be smack-dab in the middle of the Czech Village. 

Unbeknownst to me, all of these trails were within pretty close proximity to my hometown. And, all of them were worth the visit! The fact that I got to see them "up close and in person" just sweetened the experience. I'm glad I got outside and explored Iowa!

Speaking of getting outside and exploring Iowa, the Iowa Lottery is currently encouraging just such an adventure. This promotion goes through September 13th, 2022. Grab some of the $5 Explore Iowa scratch tickets...there's all kinds of prizes to be had.  You can now win up to $50,000 with the Explore Iowa ticket or Play It Again for your chance to win cash or a Polaris vehicle. #ad

What do ya say? Are you game for a good time, exploring Iowa? Come on over, and I'll show you around (and be sure to bring your bike). 

**This post has been sponsored by Iowa Lottery. All opinions are entirely my own.

**Be sure to check out their Instagram and Facebook pages!

Have you been to Iowa? If so, have you ever checked out the trails? Have you explored your state, via a bike trail? 

I'm linking this with Michelle, Renee, Darlene, Jenn and Zenaida for the Fit Five Friday Link-up.

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