Soldiers & Sailors Park

The Cedar River – Cedar River loop from Iowa Northern Railway offers a delightful road cycling experience, guiding you through a rich tapestry of Iowa's landscapes. You'll pedal alongside the Cedar River, enjoying grand views and passing through lush floodplain forests, expansive agricultural fields, and vibrant prairie sections dotted with wildflowers. The route seamlessly blends natural beauty with urban glimpses, connecting you through parts of Waterloo and Cedar Falls, where you can observe downtown areas and residential neighborhoods.

This easy 23.1 miles (37.2 km) road cycling route is largely flat, with a gentle 275 feet (84 metres) of elevation gain, making it suitable for nearly all fitness levels. You can expect to complete it in about 1 hour and 50 minutes. Parking is generally convenient at various trailheads in the connected urban centers. The best time to ride is from spring through fall, when the weather is pleasant and the scenery is most inviting.

What makes this route particularly interesting is its connection to the historic Cedar Valley Nature Trail, built on the abandoned right-of-way of the Waterloo, Cedar Falls & Northern Railway. This rail-trail conversion offers a unique blend of history and nature, allowing you to experience diverse ecosystems from dense forests to open prairies. It's a key part of Iowa's extensive trail network, providing a glimpse into the region's past while enjoying its present-day natural beauty.

This road cycling route offers a delightful journey through the natural beauty of Cedar Falls, tracing the Cedar River and venturing into the Hartman Reserve Nature Center. You'll pedal past woodlands, prairies, and wetlands, with the chance to spot local wildlife like deer and various bird species in this designated Iowa Watchable Wildlife Site. The scenery is consistently varied and engaging, making the 33.4 miles (53.8 km) fly by.

Starting from the University of Northern Iowa, this moderate loop covers 477 feet (145 metres) of elevation gain over approximately 2 hours and 56 minutes. The terrain is mostly flat to gently rolling, making it suitable for cyclists looking for a longer ride without extreme climbs. The Cedar Valley Trails system is well-maintained, ensuring a smooth experience, and the route is generally accessible for a pleasant outing.

The Hartman Reserve Nature Center itself is a highlight, providing a 340-acre "wooded isle" that serves as a vital natural area within the community. This extensive trail network is a testament to Cedar Falls' status as a Bicycle Friendly Community, offering excellent connectivity for both recreation and active transportation. It's a great way to experience the region's diverse ecosystems.

The Brinker Lake – Cedar River loop offers a delightful road cycling experience, guiding you through the serene landscapes of George Wyth Memorial State Park. You'll pedal along mostly paved paths, enjoying continuous views of Brinker Lake and the Cedar River, with the trail often hugging the water's edge for a truly tranquil ride. This moderate 31.4-mile (50.6 km) route, featuring a gentle 447 feet (136 metres) of elevation gain, is designed for a smooth ride and typically takes about 2 hours and 29 minutes to complete.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the loop is part of the well-developed Cedar Valley Trails system, known for its extensive network and amenities. You'll find clear wayfinding signs indicating mileage and travel time, and the presence of the Cedar Trails Patrol offers an added layer of support. No specific permits or seasonal closures are noted, making it an accessible option for a pleasant ride during most of the year.

This route's significance extends beyond its local charm; it's part of the broader Cedar Valley Trails system, recognized as Iowa's Outstanding Tourism Attraction and integrated into both the Great American Rail-Trail and the American Discovery Trail. George Wyth Memorial State Park, where much of the loop is situated, is also a National Urban Wildlife Sanctuary, offering opportunities to spot diverse wildlife, including over 200 bird species and white-tailed deer, adding a rich natural context to your ride.