The best walks and hikes around Rock Island Arsenal
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21
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Hiking around Rock Island Arsenal explores a 946-acre island in the Mississippi River. The terrain is predominantly flat, featuring paved riverfront paths, urban greenways, and tranquil floodplain forests. These paths provide views of the Mississippi River and connect to the larger Great River Trail system. The network offers accessible hiking options for various fitness levels.
Best hiking trails around Rock Island Arsenal
- The most popular hiking route is Duck Creek Parkway Trail, a 7.2 miles (11.7 km) trail that takes about 2 hours 58 minutes to complete. This moderate route is mostly paved and follows the creek through green spaces.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Black Hawk State Historic Site Loop, an easy 2.2 miles (3.5 km) path. This trail leads through an oak-hickory forest with minimal elevation gain.
- Local hikers also love the Sylvan Island, a 1.2 miles (1.9 km) trail leading through a wooded island, often completed in about 28 minutes.
- Hiking around Rock Island Arsenal is defined by level riverside paths, urban greenways, and quiet floodplain forests. The network of trails provides accessible options for multiple ability levels.
- The routes in Rock Island Arsenal are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 5.0 stars from 1 review. More than 30 hikers have used komoot to explore Rock Island Arsenal's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 29, 2026
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hikers
1.88km
00:29
0m
10m
The Sylvan Island trail offers a distinctive blend of natural beauty and industrial history, making it a truly unique hiking experience. You'll wander through wooded areas where lush greenery intertwines with the fascinating "Sylvan Island Ruins," including old foundations and railroad tracks, creating an almost urban exploration feel. This easy 1.2-mile (1.9 km) loop, with a gentle 15 feet (5 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 28 minutes to complete, providing scenic views of the Mississippi River along the way.
Planning your visit to Sylvan Island is straightforward, as it's accessible via a pedestrian bridge from Sylvan Island Gateway Park in Moline. The island's rocky soil is a real bonus, ensuring the trails dry quickly even after wet weather, so it's a reliable option year-round. While there's ample parking at the gateway park, arriving earlier in the day can help you secure a spot during peak times.
What makes Sylvan Island truly stand out in the Quad Cities area is its rich history as a human-made island that once housed the Republic Steel plant. Today, nature has dramatically reclaimed the site, offering a rare opportunity to explore an abandoned industrial landscape where wildlife thrives. It's also a popular spot for mountain biking, jogging, and bird watching, making it a versatile destination for various outdoor activities.
3.49km
00:55
20m
30m
Hike the easy 2.2-mile Black Hawk State Historic Site Loop through an oak-hickory forest, enjoying river views and rich history.
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1.86km
00:31
30m
30m
The Dan Sherman Trail provides a pleasant, accessible hiking experience, perfect for a brief outdoor excursion. This easy 1.2-mile (1.9 km) route, with a gentle 113 feet (34 metres) of elevation gain, is designed for a quick 30-minute walk. It is an excellent option for anyone seeking a relaxed stroll through natural surroundings, offering a peaceful break from the everyday.
Located within Davenport, Iowa's Sunderbruch Park, the trail is easy to access with ample parking available. You can enjoy this trail year-round, though the mild weather of spring and autumn makes for particularly comfortable hiking. It is a great choice for a spontaneous outing, requiring no special gear or extensive planning.
This trail is a local gem for those in Davenport, Iowa, offering a convenient way to connect with nature without venturing far. Its easy difficulty and short length make it particularly family-friendly and suitable for beginner hikers or anyone looking for a low-key outdoor activity. The presence of Sunderbruch Park as a highlight suggests a well-integrated recreational area.
11.7km
02:58
40m
30m
The Duck Creek Parkway Trail offers a moderate hiking experience, stretching 7.2 miles (11.7 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 122 feet (37 metres). You can expect to complete this route in about 2 hours and 58 minutes. As you hike, you will pass through a varied landscape that includes native woodlands and wetlands, providing peaceful water views of Duck Creek where you might spot local waterfowl. The trail also winds past several city parks and golf courses, often providing shaded sections for a comfortable journey.
Accessing the Duck Creek Parkway Trail is straightforward, with numerous entry points available through various city parks along the route. Many of these parks are equipped with convenient amenities such as restrooms, water fountains, and picnic tables, making it easy to plan your visit. If you bring your dog along, please remember to keep them on a leash to ensure a pleasant experience for everyone.
This trail stands out for its unique blend of natural and urban environments, showcasing a diverse landscape within the city. You will encounter both serene natural areas and developed sections, including eight city parks and two golf courses that border the path. This combination makes the Duck Creek Parkway Trail a notable option for those seeking a varied outdoor experience close to urban conveniences.
59.4km
15:02
110m
110m
If you're looking for a long, accessible hike with continuous river views, the Mississippi River Trail: Davenport to Bettendorf delivers. This 36.9-mile (59.4 km) route, while rated difficult due to its 15 hours and 1 minute estimated duration, is predominantly flat and paved, offering a unique endurance challenge rather than technical terrain. You'll traverse a mix of urban and parkland settings, with highlights like the Pat and Jack Bush Scenic Overlook providing sweeping vistas of the Mississippi River and its bustling traffic.
Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trail is integrated into the urban fabric of Davenport and Bettendorf, offering easy access to amenities. Since it's a point-to-point route, consider arranging a shuttle or using public transport for your return journey. The trail is dog-friendly, allowing your leashed companion to join you, and is best enjoyed in the milder temperatures of spring or fall.
This section of the Mississippi River Trail is part of a much larger 3,000-mile system, and it seamlessly connects with other local networks like the Duck Creek Parkway Trail. Beyond the natural beauty of the river, you'll pass significant landmarks such as Modern Woodmen Park and historic Credit Island Park, offering a blend of recreation, culture, and history along your journey.
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Popular around Rock Island Arsenal
Tips from the Community
This historic area, birthplace of the Sauk warrior Black Hawk, preserves the legacy of the Sauk nation. The 150-foot bluff overlooks the Rock River, setting the stage for picturesque trails and an exploration of Native American history. Discover the captivating landscape that played a pivotal role in the Black Hawk War.
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From this spot along the Great River Trail you get great views of Sylvan Island. You can cross a bridge to the island, but there are really only hiking and single track mountain bike trails that are unsuitable for road cycling.
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The Rock Island Centennial Bridge, spanning the Mississippi River, was constructed to commemorate the centennial anniversary of the city of Rock Island, Illinois, in 1940. Its elegant design and strategic location have made it an iconic landmark, facilitating transportation and fostering connections between Rock Island and Davenport, Iowa, for over eight decades.
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These bridges are often referred to as "The Twin Bridges" and carry traffic across the Mississippi River on I-74. The original bridge opened to traffic in 1935, and the new bridge was completed in 2020.
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Sunderbruch Park is a beautiful park in Davenport. There are miles of paths that are used by runners, walkers and mountain bikes. There is water, parking and restrooms at the entrance to the park.
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Sunderbruch Park is a beautiful park in Davenport. There are miles of paths that are used by runners, walkers and mountain bikers. There is water, parking and restrooms at the entrance to the park.
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This historic area, birthplace of the Sauk warrior Black Hawk, preserves the legacy of the Sauk nation. The 150-foot bluff overlooks the Rock River, setting the stage for picturesque trails and an exploration of Native American history. Discover the captivating landscape that played a pivotal role in the Black Hawk War.
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This island features a variety of trails and diverse wildlife for visitors to enjoy. There are miles of single-track mountain biking trails suitable for users of all abilities, and numerous spots to pause for a picnic, birdwatching, or a bit of fishing.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get access to hike on Rock Island Arsenal?
As it's an active military installation, all visitors who are not Department of Defense affiliated must get a visitor pass. You can obtain one by presenting a valid government-issued photo ID at the Visitor Control Center at the Moline Gate. Once you have your pass, you are free to explore the designated recreational areas.
Are there easy, family-friendly hikes in the Rock Island area?
Yes, the area is well-suited for families. The terrain is mostly flat, especially along the river. A great option is the Scott Community College loop — Riverdale, which is a short and easy walk. Many of the paved paths along the Great River Trail are also perfect for a family outing.
Can I bring my dog on the trails around Rock Island Arsenal?
Many trails in the Quad Cities area are dog-friendly, provided your dog is on a leash. Parks like Sunderbruch and Black Hawk State Historic Site are popular with dog walkers. However, specific regulations on Rock Island Arsenal itself can change, so it's always best to check for current signage regarding pets upon arrival.
What are the options for hiking along the Mississippi River?
The region is defined by its riverfront trails. The Great River Trail is a 62-mile path that runs along the Mississippi, with sections accessible from Rock Island Arsenal. For a dedicated riverfront route, consider the Fort Armstrong via Riverfront Trail — Davenport, which offers excellent views of the water and the historic island.
Where can I find more rustic or primitive hiking trails?
For a less developed trail experience, Sylvan Island is a great choice. This former industrial site offers unpaved crushed limestone and dirt paths that wind through a more natural setting. The Rock Island County Forest Preserve also provides a more rustic environment for hiking away from paved surfaces.
What historical landmarks can I see while hiking on the Arsenal?
A walk on Rock Island Arsenal is a journey through history. You can see the Rock Island National Cemetery, the Colonel Davenport House, a replica of the Fort Armstrong blockhouse, and Quarters One. A self-guided tour is available that highlights over 30 historic sites across the island.
Are there any good circular or loop hikes available?
Yes, there are several excellent loop trails. The Sunderbruch Park loop — Davenport is a popular choice that takes you through a beautiful wooded area. For a longer loop that combines park and riverfront scenery, the Credit Island Park loop via Riverfront Trail — Davenport is a fantastic option.
Where is the best place to park for hikes around Rock Island Arsenal?
For access to the Arsenal itself, you must enter through the Moline Gate and will find designated parking areas near recreational spots and trailheads. For hikes in surrounding parks like Black Hawk State Historic Site or Sunderbruch Park, there are dedicated parking lots available at the main entrances.
Are there any long-distance hiking options in the area?
The Great River Trail provides the best opportunity for long-distance hiking, stretching for 62 miles along the Mississippi. You can hike a significant portion of it starting from the Quad Cities. The Duck Creek Trail — Davenport is another substantial route, offering over 10 miles of continuous path through local greenways.
What do other hikers enjoy about the trails in this area?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community. Reviewers often praise the well-maintained paved paths, the beautiful views of the Mississippi River, and the unique blend of natural scenery with American history found directly on the Arsenal island.
What are some other popular parks for hiking near the Arsenal?
Besides the Arsenal itself, Black Hawk State Historic Site is a local favorite, offering trails through a peaceful, well-preserved forest. Sylvan Island is another top spot, known for its more rugged trails on a former industrial site right on the water.
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