Explore the best rated trails in Plano, IA, whether you're looking for an easy walking trail or a bike trail like the Jerry Kelley Trail and Summerset Trail . With more than 12 trails covering 73 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 had only done a small portion of the trail back in July with some of it being closed. This time, all clear and it was a great ride!! Started in downtown Pella and went the distance to Cordova. The ride had a good mix of ups and downs, bridges, lake views, sun and shade and lots of curves!! Very enjoyable and plenty of places to stop for a snack and a few bathrooms as well! We explored the trail on the other side of the river near the campground as well. Almost 40 miles round trip, definitely worth doing again!!!
This is a high-quality, wide trail, mostly winding through trees, and an open area at the top of the hill past the cemetery. Hills are fairly steep. There are no lights on the trail, so at night most of it is quite dark. I went for it anyway, and it's nearly pitch black in places, but because the path is so well done, I still had no problems tripping on holes or branches. (A little nerve-wracking, but no physical troubles.)
Sections of the trail are being closed for resurfacing. They replaced the blacktop to Ivan's campground with cement which is a massive improvement. Glad to see this beautiful trail being maintained.
The Cinder Path is one of Iowa’s hidden gems. I’ve ridden trails all over the state and Midwest, and this is still one of my favorites. It’s in great shape—smooth, fast, and well-maintained, with solid bridges and beautiful scenery. The covered bridge is a standout feature, and the rustic, unpaved surface adds to its charm. It’s quiet, remote, and feels like a true escape into nature. The communities of Chariton, Derby, and Humeston are lucky to have it.
This is not a MTB trail but also isn't a paved bike trail. I've ridden it after heavy rain and it was fine, road it last week in some light rain and it was in great shape. Grass section near Humeston was in good shape and not overgrown.
The trail is in the best shape I've ever seen it and I would recommend this to anyone.
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
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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
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 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
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.
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