Cedar River Greenbelt Trail

The Cedar River Greenbelt Trail snakes along the west side of the river between Osage and Mitchell. The limestone trail is suitable for walking, jogging, biking and horseback riding. The trail is open year round; in the wintertime, it's also used for cross-country skiing (skiis can be rented at the Owen Nature Center). Fishing and hunting are also permitted at designated locations in the greenbelt. The trail winds through the riparian woods, moving closer and further from the river at different points. Resident wildlife like deer and diverse birdlife can be spotted on the way.

The trail ends at the Falklands Wildlife Area, where the Mitchell County Conservation Board Headquarters and Owen Nature Center are located. The Harry Cook Nature Trail is located about half a mile away. It can be accessed by taking State Highway 9 to Spring Park Road and then taking that road south to the nature trail.

Parking and Trail Access

Parking is available at Mitchell County Conservation Board HQ (18793 Hwy. 9 Osage, Osage, IA).

CAUTION!!!

September 2022 andreaevel

If biking mountain bikes required! Extremely rugged trails! Steep, rocky, and wet. Risk takers only! Take your life into your own hands! Hiking might be a safer option!

beautiful but rugged

July 2022 wollenburg.nellie

The trail is beautiful but something to note this is for a moderate rider. A lot of the trail has rugged terrain with an abundance of rocks. Luckily our youngest was not with for this ride or we would of had to turn around. I highly suggest parking at the restaurant Old County Seat to begin your ride. That way when you circle back you can stop for some food or just grab a drink. PS - I highly recommend their Bloody Mary’s or the 1919 Root Beer!!

hiking

July 2022 alachapelle24

This trail has it all. From hiking to horseback riding. Fun trail with some great views alone the river. Has some pretty big rocks to walk through on part so had to be careful with that. Overall great trail!