Mason City's Winnebago Trail connects MacNider Campground, East Park, residential neighborhoods and the city's municipal swimming pool with the Lime Creek Nature Center just outside city limits. Along its entire route, the aptly-named trail follows the course of the Winnebago River.
The trail is a part of the River City Greenbelt and Trail System, which links the parks and cultural attractions of Mason City and the adjacent summer resort town of Clear Lake (although the trails are not physically connected). Along with the Winnebago Trail, the system includes the
Trolley Trail and River City Trail.
Before or after your trek on the Winnebago Trail, be sure to check out the observation deck, exhibits and extensive trail system at the Lime Creek Nature Center.
At the southern end of the Winnebago Trail, parking can be found at MacNider Campground or in the large lot for the Mason City pool at the intersection of Birch Drive and N. Virginia Avenue. Directly across the river, park in one of East Park's lots on S. Virginia Avenue. From there, take the new pedestrian bridge over the river to join the Winnebago Trail.
Alternatively, begin your journey at the trail's northern endpoint at the Lime Creek Nature Center. Park in their large lot on Lime Creek Road east of US 65.