The best walks and hikes around Moline

There are 10 hiking routes around Moline, with 8 easy and 2 moderate options, catering to various skill levels.

Moline offers a diverse range of terrains. You'll find flat, paved trails along the Mississippi River, like sections of the Great River Trail. Other areas, such as Sylvan Island, feature crushed limestone paths and dirt trails. Inland parks like Stephen's Park provide wooded ravines with climbs, downhill sections, and narrow singletrack, while Prospect Park offers varied terrain from easy to very difficult.

Yes, many of Moline's trails are suitable for families. The flat, paved sections along the Mississippi River, such as the Great River Trail, are ideal for leisurely walks. Routes like the Crow Creek Park loop — Bettendorf, which is an easy 2.2-mile (3.5 km) hike, are also great choices for families.

Many trails in Moline provide excellent views of the Mississippi River. The Credit Island Park loop via Riverfront Trail — Davenport offers extensive river views. Another popular option is the Pat and Jack Bush Scenic Overlook loop via Riverfront Trail — Bettendorf, which features specific overlooks of the river.

Many of the outdoor areas and trails in Moline and the surrounding Quad Cities region are dog-friendly, provided dogs are kept on a leash. The paved riverfront trails and natural areas like Sylvan Island are generally welcoming to leashed pets. Always check specific park regulations before you go.

Along Moline's hiking routes, especially those near the river, you can encounter several interesting features. The Government Bridge and the I-74 Pedestrian and Bicycle Bridge are prominent landmarks. You'll also experience the natural beauty of the Sylvan Slough and sections of the Mississippi River Trail (MRT) – Illinois.

Yes, there are several circular hiking routes available. For example, the Credit Island Park loop via Riverfront Trail — Davenport is a moderate 9.8-mile (15.8 km) loop. Another option is the Scott Community College loop — Riverdale, an easy 2.6-mile (4.2 km) route.

The best time for hiking in Moline is typically during spring and fall. These seasons offer pleasant temperatures, vibrant foliage, and active wildlife. Summer can also be enjoyable, especially on shaded trails or along the riverfront where breezes are common. Winter hiking is possible, but some trails may be icy or muddy.

While Moline's immediate trails are mostly easy to moderate, more challenging options are available within a reasonable drive. Parks like Mississippi Palisades State Park, about an hour north, offer 15 miles of trails with varying difficulties and significant elevation changes. Starved Rock State Park, though further, also provides more strenuous hiking opportunities.

The hiking experiences around Moline are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the beautiful Mississippi River views, the accessibility of the flat, paved trails, and the peaceful woodland settings found in various parks.

Yes, for those interested in longer distances, the Great River Trail runs along the Mississippi River for 62 miles, with Moline's Ben Butterworth Parkway section being a popular part of it. While primarily paved, it offers extensive mileage for long walks or multi-day excursions. Additionally, Loud Thunder Forest Preserve, about a half-hour away, features a 12-mile continuous loop trail.

Parking is generally available at trailheads and park entrances throughout Moline and the surrounding areas. Popular spots like Ben Butterworth Parkway, Sylvan Island, and various city parks typically have designated parking lots. For specific routes, it's advisable to check the starting point details on komoot for parking information.