Explore the best rated trails in Garden Grove, IA, whether you're looking for an easy walking trail or a bike trail like the East Hillcrest Trail and John King Trail . With more than 20 trails covering 92 miles you're bound to find a perfect trail for you. Click on any trail below to find trail descriptions, trail maps, photos, and reviews.
Nice easy flat ride with a lake on one side and housed on the other
I rode this trail in mid September 2025. I started at the north end not knowing there is a rail closure at Count Line Road and Hwy 28. It continues to a mile and a half north of the Chicken Restaurant. The trail was open the rest of the way to Martinsdale. The older asphalt sections have plenty of cracks and is rough. The cement sections are heaven. I think eventually it will all be cement. Wonderful mostly shaded ride through the country. I give it five stars even with the rough sections. It’s another great long trail away from the death machines.
We were hoping to ride this entire trail this morning but were unsuccessful. We started south out of Cumming and it was SO bumpy that we turned around after about three miles. Riding north of Cumming we encountered the same bumpy patched up trail until we encountered a trail closed sign. I couldn’t really enjoy the scenery as I had to keep a close eye on the trail. The trail at the street crossings was concrete for a few yards on either side which was wonderful. We left the trail after only riding nine miles. We were disappointed in the condition of the Great Western trail and won’t ride it again unless it gets a major facelift.
I most recently rode the trail on the end of July 2024 from Howell Station Campground to the termination by Cordoba Park. It’s a wonderfully curvy and hilly trail. The hills are long and gentle and the views are great. It seems most of it was shaded. There were some cracks but most of it was smooth and any cracks were manageable. Going the other direction from my start would take you into Pella which is mostly uphill and not a lot of shade. I would highly recommend this trail my favorite being the part I ride along Lake Red Rock. traveling cyclist Facebook
I stumbled upon this trail exploring the Summerset State park and it was a very pleasant surprise all the way through! Wonderfully paved with blacktop (with only a couple clearly marked bumps here and there) it passes sweeping countryside vistas of farmland/crop land as well as long stretches of tree tunnels and woods. My favorite part was passing over the charming wooden trestle bridges going over the rushing streams and babbling brooks. My only regret was that I didn’t do more of the trail, I’ll definitely check this out again when I’m passing through the area.
I rode from Martensdale to north of Cummings about 12 miles July 2024. The path is patched up and there are some rough cracks still but if you watch it you would be fine. There are some sections that have been replaced with cement which are heavenly. There is also some newer asphalt. I would recommend riding this trail if you are in the area, it's very scenic. I saw deer, squirrels, rabbits, raccoons, chipmunks, various birds, and even a cat. I rode a road bike with 700X45 tires.
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I rode this short trail that is at the end of the Somerset Trail in 2024. It’s a nice little trail. Traveling Cyclist Facebook
I rode this trail in June from Carlisle to Indianola and back and again in July in the reverse and back both done in 2024. I love this trail! Very scenic and well maintained. You can tell it’s an older trail but still a very good surface and enjoyable. When in the area I recommend riding this trail. Traveling Cyclist Facebook
We entered from the west end, not far from the Cordoba Tower. We rode with our granddaughter on a tag along. We only went about 6 miles and turned around as that is good for a four year-old. The trails were smooth with gentle hills and great views of the lake. The tower is a fun added bonus. We will return later in the fall.
Mostly asphalt that could use some work. Looks like they will be resurfacing the section south of Cumming fall of 2023. The Chicken and the Iowa Distillery are definitely worth the ride.
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