Explore the best rated trails in Ottumwa, IA, whether you're looking for an easy walking trail or a bike trail like the John King Trail and Competine Trail . With more than 12 trails covering 93 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.
I thoroughly enjoyed riding this trail in early August 2024. I rode every direction and back more than once. I really liked the old bridge with the eagle blind. If I lived here I would ride this everyday. Five stars!
Traveling cyclist
Facebook
I rode this trail the first of August 2024. This is the epitome of a great trail. I would recommend riding this world class trail. The trail is broken but the road sections are well marked and easy to navigate. A lot of shade as it winds through woods and gentle hills. I would give it more than five stars if I could!
Traveling cyclist
Facebook
The majority of this trail is well paved with a bit of street riding needed. Nice mix of park-like and country setting with small bits of hill climb. Was surprised to read a sign saying no fast biking allowed only to meet a golf cart on the path. Would highlight recommend this path for an hour plus ride.
Overall I was pleasantly surprised at the scenery and variety along this trail. I started at the Maasdam Barns (next to the Health Center) and went clockwise. The first issue I encountered was a closure at Kale Blvd a little over a mile in. I didn’t see any indication the trail was going to be closed at this area ahead of time. Fortunately there wasn’t a work activity at the time and others had been going around the barriers. The other trail closure at Chautauqua Park had better signage for the detour. The trail was a mix of crushed limestone, concrete path and a section of gravel road.
Lived in this town most of my life so I've walked these trails many times during spring and summer and always loved it.
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.
I live just a couple of blocks from the Lamson Woods entrance and travel this trail ALL the time - biking and walking. The views and wildlife will feed your nature-loving soul. A section winds through the edge of the city, but very biker friendly. You can take sweet side rides through Chautauqua, Waterworks, and Jefferson County Park, as well as the Cedar View section. It includes both open and tree-lined portions and a few manageable hills. The trail is well-kept in all kinds of weather and shows off all four Iowa seasons. You can park and hop on this trail at more than a dozen spots. Do it!at
This trail is so beautiful, changes seasonally, has so many different kinds of nature scenes ranging from pine forest to meadow to wild flower marshes. It is a dream for me to ride my bike on. I have spent many hours of this diversified nature trail. Thank you Fairfield!
I'm local to the area and ride this trail frequently. The trail is primarily paved concrete. There are sections of the designated trail which are also City streets; however, signs have been added to the route in the past couple of years to identify the trail.
The trail is relatively flat, with some areas of elevation, but not overly challenging for most regular riders. The trail is also designated as a recreation trail. Trail users include walkers, runners, bikers, electric scooters, and golf carts (limited to 20 mph or less). Motorized vehicles are prohibited on the trail; however, I have witnessed instances of individuals using them on the recreation trail.
Overall, this is a great trail and it's well maintained for the most part. I did have one instance of a collision with a golf cart on the trail. The collision occurred on a somewhat blind corner and resulted in my front tire rim becoming bent. The golf cart was driven by a young teenager. Unfortunately, city ordinances do not prohibit golf carts on the trail and do not put any restrictions on the age for golf cart users. Exercise caution when it comes to golf cart users on the trail.
Stopped here on my way across country on I 80. Worth the diversion, good surface and shade. Harvest time in Iowa so plenty to see. Good camping close by in Hills Iowa.
Awesome trail Uphill ride into Pella Don’t forget to stop at the Peanut Pub across from a great bike shop for a craft beer. Perfect experience
TrailLink is a free service provided by Rails-to-Trails Conservancy (a non-profit) and we need your support!
Scan the QR code to get TrailLink on your phone
