Export to Trail Guide
Create Guidebook 
Download GPX 
Print Friendly MapThe Laurens Prairie Preservation Trail runs for just under a mile along an old Chicago, Rock Island and Pacific railroad line on the south side of town in the rural community of Laurens. The trail passes through an open corridor with scattered trees offering shade, with plentiful views of the scenic Iowa farm fields that surround the trail. The trail is open in spring after the snow melts but closes for winter or when snow is on the ground; the crushed stone surface is not suited for all types of bike, but the trail makes for a perfect path for a nice stroll.
Local officials are currently working on an extension of the trail in the northwest part of town, which would roughly triple the mileage offered. Long-term goals include extending the trail all the way through the heart of Pocahontas County and connecting to the regional Three Rivers Trail.
Park in a small lot off Veterans Road just west of State Route 10.
Took our 6-month-old puppy on a summer, Monday, mid-afternoon. Met one walker and one bicycler. It was mostly quiet and mostly shady with benches along the way. It is near a highway, but far enough away and within a speed zone, so even semis were not a challenge. A nice walk on a basically flat trail.
I walk this trail daily with my dog.
TrailLink is a free service provided by Rails-to-Trails conservancy
(a non-profit) and we need your support!
