A paved corridor, various trails
The section of the Heart of Iowa Nature Trail in Story County has been fully paved since the end of 2024. The continuous concrete corridor measures 21 miles and connects Slater, Huxley, Cambridge, Maxwell, and Collins.
Between Huxley and Cambridge, the Monarch Tunnel features themed artwork celebrating the Monarch Highway. Another historic trail can be found in the Skunk River Greenbelt: where possible, it follows an old stagecoach route that connected early settlements in the valley. Soper's Mill, a historic site, is also located in the Greenbelt.
The valley provides habitat for river otters, turkeys, deer, small mammals, and songbirds. Activities in the Skunk River Greenbelt may include hiking, mountain biking on unpaved trails, horseback riding, fishing, birdwatching, canoeing, and kayaking. Nature observation, recreation, and history come together in one area.
Trails and parks for different interests
At Hickory Grove Park, an approximately three-mile hiking loop made of limestone gravel circles the lake; cross-country skiing is available there in winter. Dakins Lake has two miles of trails for hiking and mountain biking on unpaved trails. In the 103-acre Dakins Lake Park, the two lakes together cover 20 acres of open water.
The Touch-a-Life Trail in McFarland Park is just under a mile long and leads to accessible lakeside facilities: a fishing pier, an observation deck, and accessible picnic areas.
Peterson Park has 3.7 miles of trails open to mountain bikers, hikers, horseback riders, and cross-country skiers. The park is also home to McMichael Pioneer Cemetery and sections of the Stagecoach Trail (East Peterson). The three parks offer different trail lengths and uses; Peterson Park also adds historic sites as a discovery in their own right.
Prairie, wildlife, and winter trails
The Praeri Rail Trail is a 10.5-mile recreational corridor. In summer, it is used for hiking, cycling, jogging, and horseback riding. In winter, cross-country skiing and snowmobiling are possible: snowmobiles are permitted when there is sufficient snow cover, while all other motorized vehicles are prohibited on the trail.
Along the Praeri Rail Trail, the Ed Powell Wildlife Area includes about 17 acres of reconstructed prairie crossed by a small stream. Hiking, walking, birdwatching, and geocaching are possible there.
Doolittle Prairie is a 40-acre pothole prairie. Its depressions provide valuable habitat for wetland wildlife. Every year from May through September, the county hosts monthly guided public walks called “Evening Walks on the Prairie.” Dates and details may vary.
Robison Wildlife Acres is a wildlife refuge: hunting and trapping are not allowed there. Nature trails lead through grassland and woodland; in spring, the area is considered a popular place for wildflower walks.
Practical information and more discoveries
Story County parks are generally open from 5:00 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., unless otherwise specified. The South Skunk River Water Trail has 11 access points; Story County Conservation manages eight of them. Since conditions at individual access points may change, check the latest updates before your trip.
Culture and local production also add to the picture: Museums of Story City supports four museums, an extensive collection, and educational programs. In Ames, Prairie Moon Winery and Vineyard produces hybrid wines from its own grapes.
Discover more destinations: Nevada, Ames, Story City, Floyd County, Jefferson County, Allamakee County, Plymouth County, Audubon.
For the main travel overview: Iowa.
