The best traffic-free bike rides in Story County

Story County offers a selection of 6 dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes. These routes range in difficulty, with 2 easy options and 4 moderate challenges, ensuring there's something for various skill levels.

For those seeking longer rides, the High Trestle Trail loop from Big Creek State Park covers approximately 68 kilometers. Another substantial option is the Big Creek State Park – Neal Smith Trail loop, which is around 44 kilometers long.

Yes, Story County has easy options perfect for families or those looking for a relaxed ride. The High Trestle Trail loop from Slater is an easy route, offering a pleasant 21-kilometer ride on a dedicated trail, ideal for avoiding vehicle traffic.

The no-traffic routes in Story County often utilize former railway lines, like the Heart of Iowa Nature Trail, which means generally flat or gently rolling terrain. You'll experience a mix of paved surfaces, expansive views of prairies, woodlands, and rolling farmland, providing a scenic and smooth ride.

The komoot community highly rates the no-traffic road cycling experience in Story County, with an average score of 4.8 stars from 22 ratings. Reviewers often praise the peaceful, car-free environment, the scenic views of Iowa's diverse landscapes, and the well-maintained paved trails that make for enjoyable rides.

Yes, many of the routes are designed as loops. For instance, the Ada Hayden Overlook Swing – Wildlife viewing loop from Iowa State University offers a moderate 27-kilometer circular ride, allowing you to start and end at the same point without retracing your steps.

Many trailheads and parks throughout Story County offer designated parking areas. For routes utilizing the Heart of Iowa Nature Trail, you can often find parking in the towns it connects, such as Slater, Huxley, Cambridge, Maxwell, and Collins. Parks like McFarland Park and Hickory Grove Park also provide ample parking for trail access.

Story County boasts several natural attractions. While cycling, you might pass by areas like McFarland Park, which features prairies, woodlands, and a lake, or Hickory Grove Park, known for its large lake and beautiful fall colors. The Roadbike loop from Iowa State University, for example, offers a chance to explore the local surroundings near the university.

Spring and fall are generally considered the best seasons for road biking in Story County. The weather is mild, and the natural landscapes are particularly vibrant. Fall offers stunning foliage, especially around areas like Hickory Grove Park. While summer is also popular, be prepared for warmer temperatures.

Public transportation options directly to specific trailheads might be limited in some rural areas of Story County. However, Ames, a central hub, has some public transport services. It's advisable to check local transit schedules and routes, such as those provided by CyRide in Ames, to see if they connect to areas near the trail access points. For more general information on things to do and parks, you can visit the Story County Iowa website.

Many of the no-traffic rail trails, like the Heart of Iowa Nature Trail, connect various small towns. These towns, such as Slater, Huxley, Cambridge, Maxwell, and Collins, often have local cafes, convenience stores, or restaurants where you can refuel and find amenities. It's a good idea to check specific town offerings along your chosen route.