The best road cycling routes around Saylorville

Imagine gliding along a smooth, paved surface, the Iowa landscape unfolding around you as you cycle the High Trestle Trail. The route transitions from wide-open cornfields to more wooded areas, culminating in the stunning High Trestle Bridge, a 130-foot-tall former railway bridge. Its unique "From Here to There" art installation, with twisting, LED-lit steel ribs, creates a captivating experience, especially after dusk.

This moderate 39.3 miles (63.2 km) road cycling loop, with just 524 feet (160 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 3 hours and 10 minutes to complete. Parking is readily available at the Staff Parking trailhead, and you'll find convenient amenities like restaurants and bars in nearby towns such as Madrid and Woodward, making it easy to refuel or relax.

The High Trestle Trail is a standout in central Iowa, offering a largely flat and accessible ride that connects to other trails for extended adventures. The bridge itself is a significant architectural and artistic landmark, paying homage to the region's coal-mining past. Cycling it at night, when the blue LED lights illuminate the structure, provides a truly memorable and distinct experience.

The Neal Smith Trail – Saylorville Dam loop offers a fantastic road cycling experience, winding through the scenic Des Moines River valley with continuous views of Saylorville Lake. You'll traverse diverse landscapes, from lush forests and wildflower meadows to open prairies, with opportunities to spot local wildlife. While mostly paved, expect a moderate challenge with hills and elevation changes, making it a rewarding ride for those seeking both natural beauty and a good workout.

This 32.3-mile (52.0 km) loop, starting from Staff Parking, features 877 feet (267 metres) of elevation gain and typically takes around 3 hours and 23 minutes. The trail provides amenities like restrooms and picnic areas, with the Saylorville Lake Visitor Center being a great spot to pause. Be aware that some sections have reported surface deterioration, so road cyclists should ride with caution.

Part of the extensive Central Iowa Trail Network, the Neal Smith Trail is one of the region's older and more established routes, originally built in 1982. It's a traffic-free path that connects to other trails and offers more than just cycling; you can also enjoy hiking, running, or even cross-country skiing in winter. The trail's age and varied terrain make it a unique and enduring outdoor destination near Ankeny.

The Chichaqua Valley Trail Shelter – Chichaqua Valley Hill View loop from Oralabor offers a diverse road cycling experience, transitioning from the suburban and agricultural views of the Oralabor Gateway Trail to the natural beauty of the Chichaqua Valley Trail. You'll pedal through sprawling meadows, past rolling farmland, and alongside hardwood timbers, with a notable highlight being the crossing of the Skunk River on an historic 1885 railroad bridge. This moderate 44.5-mile (71.6 km) route, with 943 feet (287 metres) of elevation gain, provides a rewarding day out for cyclists. Expect a journey that feels both expansive and connected to the Iowa landscape, making it one of the most popular cycling trails in the area.

To tackle this 3-hour and 13-minute loop, you'll start from Oralabor, which serves as a key connection point to the wider trail network. While specific parking at the Oralabor road trailhead isn't detailed, it's a well-known access point. The trail is mostly paved, but be aware that some eastern sections of the Chichaqua Valley Trail can have inconsistent surfaces, which might be a consideration for road bikes with very narrow tires. Amenities like restrooms and water stops are available in towns along the Chichaqua Valley Trail, so you can plan your hydration and rest breaks.

This loop is a fantastic way to experience the Chichaqua Valley Trail, a National Recreation Trail built on a former railroad bed, ensuring a largely flat and accessible ride. The route showcases Iowa's natural features, including the Santiago Creek greenbelt and the extensive Chichaqua Bottoms Greenbelt, where you might spot wildlife and wildflowers. The mention of "Hill View" in the name likely refers to the picturesque vistas, especially around the Skunk River crossing, rather than significant climbs. It's a great option for those seeking a longer, scenic ride that combines rural charm with natural beauty.