Pony Hollow Trail

Iowa

2 Reviews

The Pony Hollow Trail in the northeastern Iowa city of Elkader offers a scenic route through woodlands and wetlands along the former Chicago, Milwaukee and St. Paul Railroad bed. The western half of the trail begins just south of Elkader City Park and offers views of the Turkey River. The park provides parking, restrooms and places to picnic.

One note of caution: As the trail is close to the river, it occasionally floods, so be sure to check with the Clayton County Conservation Board before you set out on the trail.

Parking and Trail Access

Parking is available near the western end of the trail in Elkader City Park (707 High Street SE) and at the eastern trailhead, which lies south of 250th Street and just east of State Route 13.

Super trail!

August 2024 dpate

I rode this trail in August 2024. I normally prefer to stick to paved trails but I’m glad I checked this one out. It meanders through woods and along the Turkey River. It’s pretty smooth riding other than a short section of larger loose rock soon after heading south out of Elkader and at the underpass of Hwy 13 but it smooths out again for the remainder. I was able to maintain 18 mph with 700X38 tires. 5 stars for this guy. Traveling cyclist Facebook

Very Good For The Novice

October 2012 jonnie flash

This shorter trail is excellent for the beginner cyclist. If the scenery doesn't catch your eyes, the geographic education will. It is not overwhelming for the little legs which have just learned to pedal. Mile markers are frequent and the locals have done a very good job at keeping one's interest with the identification of the indigenous trees. Be sure before you take this trail the nearby Turkey River and Pony Hollow Creek have not flooded the trail which sits a mere 10 feet above the riverbed.