Find the top rated bike trails in Van Wert, whether you're looking for an easy short bike trail or a long bike trail, you'll find what you're looking for. Click on a bike trail below to find trail descriptions, trail maps, photos, and reviews.
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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 said I rode in 2025 but I see no way to edit. I rode Sept 2024. Traveling cyclist Facebook
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 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.
Traveling cyclist
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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
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.
I am on this trail frequently walking or biking. You get a great view of the lake. It's very smooth for the exception of the gravel path. When I bike I just take the path to the road and then back into the park, getting back on the path. I highly recommend this trail!
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