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It took a nearly a decade of work and collaboration between two Central Iowa communities and a host of other partners to move the JewEllsworth Trail from vision to reality. The trail sits in the disused Union Pacific Railroad that was railbanked in 2009 but there were challenges in securing the funding to actually build the trail. Local champions did not give up though, and for their efforts, the residents of Jewell and Ellsworth can now boast of this 3.5 miles walking and biking pathway in a place where such infrastructure was otherwise lacking. The trail begins on Main Street in Jewell and heads east to Ellsworth, along crop fields and parallel to 330th Street. Bridges carry trail users over the different waterways, including a 225-foot steel bridge over Skunk River. Flat and paved, the trail is inviting for users of all ages, and is a safe space for fitness and recreation as well as commuting between the two towns.
There is no dedicated parking for this trail but there may be on-street parking available at either end.
Although short, it’s sweet! 3.5 miles of paved trail with a few benches scattered along the way to stop, reflect and just enjoy! Have ridden it multiple times, in all seasons, and it never fails to given me pleasure.
This is a beautiful quiet ride! Several benches to enjoy the peace and quiet. Wide trail very well maintained. Sinage within ellsworth was a bit confusing! Jewell is a great little town with little shops to walk thru
Very nice, flat trail. Lovely views.
Short but sweet. Nice bridge over the skunk river. Benches along the way but little shade.
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