By bmkirkp in October, 2011
When I visit my in-laws in Iowa, I typically have to run the highways with no shoulder, run the country roads and risk being chased by loose dogs, or scrap my training runs all together for the weekend. My husband did a search and found this awesome trail. I started my run in Martensdale (only a 13 mile drive for me). The trail head there has decent bathroom facilities and water. The stretch I ran, 6.5 out and back, was mostly flat with only a few gradual, hardly noticeable inclines and a couple of small hills. If you are looking to do an interval or tempo run, this trail will work just fine. The trail was clear, i.e., no leaves or brush, and was nicely mowed on each side. It was a Friday, so I had it all to myself. The following day, my husband and I went for a 10 mile run on it late in the afternoon. Being a hunter, my husband really enjoyed seeing the deer. There was a little more use of the trail on this day.
Overall, this is a super nice trail. I'm thrilled that we found it and will definitely continue to use when we are back to visit. In fact, I hope to be able to run it all the way to Des Moines maybe next spring or summer.
By opus30 in June, 2011
Just rode this 6/28 for the first time. Very enjoyable and the road bed was in good condition the entire length. The Tap in Cumming is not visible from the trail, just turn off the trail where you see the Welcome to Cumming sign, go east a few yards and you will see it on the main street on the west side. The trailhead at Martensdale has some limited parking and restroom facilities.
By mlbattani in June, 2011
This is a great trail to ride. Takes you through Water Works Park and Greenwood Park. A great place to stop to eat is Bambino's in Cummings if you are there in the evening. Also Orlando's in Des Moines is another great place to get a bite to eat, the trail runs right behind it and there are usually bikes parked out back.