The best city hikes and walks around Davenport
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Urban hiking trails around Davenport are characterized by their location along the Mississippi River, offering extensive riverfront paths and scenic views. The city's terrain also includes rolling hills and woodlands, providing varied ecosystems for exploration. Parks like Sunderbruch Park feature diverse landscapes from wooded areas to open meadows, while Credit Island Park offers trails on an island in the Mississippi.
Best urban hiking trails around Davenport
- The most popular urban hiking route is Mississippi River Trail: Davenport to Bettendorf, a 36.9 miles (59.4 km) trail that takes 15 hours 1 minute to complete. This difficult route offers continuous river views connecting Davenport to Bettendorf.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Riverfront Trail to Fort Armstrong, an easy 3.6 miles (5.7 km) path. This trail provides access to the riverfront and views towards Fort Armstrong.
- Local hikers also love the Sylvan Slough – Schwiebert Riverfront Park loop from Davenport, a 3.3 miles (5.3 km) trail leading through riverfront parkland, often completed in about 1 hour 20 minutes.
- Hiking around Davenport is defined by Mississippi River views, rolling hills, and diverse woodlands. The network offers options for various ability levels, from easy riverfront strolls to more challenging, longer routes.
- The routes in Davenport are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 5.0 stars from a few reviews. More than 30 hikers have used komoot to explore Davenport's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 8, 2026
59.4km
15:02
110m
110m
If you're looking for a long, accessible hike with continuous river views, the Mississippi River Trail: Davenport to Bettendorf delivers. This 36.9-mile (59.4 km) route, while rated difficult due to its 15 hours and 1 minute estimated duration, is predominantly flat and paved, offering a unique endurance challenge rather than technical terrain. You'll traverse a mix of urban and parkland settings, with highlights like the Pat and Jack Bush Scenic Overlook providing sweeping vistas of the Mississippi River and its bustling traffic.
Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trail is integrated into the urban fabric of Davenport and Bettendorf, offering easy access to amenities. Since it's a point-to-point route, consider arranging a shuttle or using public transport for your return journey. The trail is dog-friendly, allowing your leashed companion to join you, and is best enjoyed in the milder temperatures of spring or fall.
This section of the Mississippi River Trail is part of a much larger 3,000-mile system, and it seamlessly connects with other local networks like the Duck Creek Parkway Trail. Beyond the natural beauty of the river, you'll pass significant landmarks such as Modern Woodmen Park and historic Credit Island Park, offering a blend of recreation, culture, and history along your journey.
5.72km
01:27
10m
10m
Embark on an easy hike along the Riverfront Trail to Fort Armstrong, a pleasant 3.6-mile (5.7 km) route that offers continuous views of the mighty Mississippi River. You'll experience a mostly flat path, gaining only 49 feet (15 metres) in elevation, making it accessible for nearly everyone. The journey, which takes about 1 hour and 27 minutes, guides you past the historic Fort Armstrong, providing a unique blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue. As you walk, notice the gentle flow of the river and the surrounding riverine landscape. This trail is perfect for a relaxed outing where you can soak in the riverside atmosphere.
Planning your visit to the Riverfront Trail is straightforward, as it is easily accessible. You will find convenient parking options located close to the trailhead in Davenport, making your start simple. Since the route is rated as easy, it welcomes hikers of most fitness levels, offering a gentle experience. The trail remains open throughout the year, allowing you to enjoy its charm in any season. Before heading out, remember to check the local weather forecast to ensure a comfortable and safe hike. This ensures you are prepared for the conditions, whether it's a sunny day or cooler weather.
What makes this trail particularly interesting is its historical foundation, as much of the path follows former railroad corridors. This unique aspect contributes to its flat and easy-to-navigate terrain, ideal for a leisurely stroll or a brisk walk. The presence of Fort Armstrong along the route offers a direct connection to the region's past, inviting you to ponder its significance. It's a great way to combine outdoor activity with a touch of local history, providing more than just a scenic walk.
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hikers
5.31km
01:20
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The Government Bridge, also known as the Arsenal Bridge, spans the Mississippi River between Rock Island, Illinois, and Davenport, Iowa. Built in 1896, the bridge has two levels: the upper deck serves the Iowa Interstate Railroad, while the lower deck carries vehicle traffic and has lanes on each side for pedestrians and cyclists. It features a swing section to allow river navigation. The current bridge is the fourth at this location; the first, built in 1856, was the first railroad bridge across the Mississippi. Subsequent bridges were built after damage from collisions, ice storms, and tornadoes.
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Schwiebert Riverfront Park offers a variety of features, including art sculptures, a digital playground, a fountain, a great lawn, an observation shelter, a parking lot, a promenade, restrooms, a stage, a triangle lawn, an urban concrete beach, and a walk/jog path/trail. The park was named after former Mayor Mark Schwiebert, who lived from 1989 to 2009, for his dedication to enhancing public access to the riverfront. The park hosts live music events and is a picturesque setting for leisure and for recreation.
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Sylvan Slough is a river in Illinois that passes Rock Island. If you follow the river further east, you'll get wonderful views to Rock Island Arsenal and Sylvan Island.
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Fort Armstrong, established in 1816, served as a vital military installation on Rock Island Arsenal, Illinois. Initially constructed to maintain peace among Native American tribes and European settlers, it later played a significant role in safeguarding American interests during the War of 1812. Throughout its history, Fort Armstrong served as a key strategic outpost, witnessing various conflicts and transformations until its eventual decommissioning in 1836.
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The Rock Island Centennial Bridge, spanning the Mississippi River, was constructed to commemorate the centennial anniversary of the city of Rock Island, Illinois, in 1940. Its elegant design and strategic location have made it an iconic landmark, facilitating transportation and fostering connections between Rock Island and Davenport, Iowa, for over eight decades.
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This impressive and historical bridge is an unusual structure in that it is a double-decked bridge. It carries two railroad lines on top and vehicular/pedestrian traffic on the lower deck. It spans the Mississippi connecting Rock Island, Illinois and Davenport, Iowa.
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These bridges are often referred to as "The Twin Bridges" and carry traffic across the Mississippi River on I-74. The original bridge opened to traffic in 1935, and the new bridge was completed in 2020.
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The Riverfront Trail is part of the larger Mississippi River Trail system and, as the name suggests, it runs along the banks of the Mississippi River. It is fully paved and popular with cyclists, runners and walkers.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of urban hiking trails can I find in Davenport?
Davenport offers a diverse range of urban hiking experiences, from scenic riverfront paths along the Mississippi River to trails winding through parks with woodlands and open meadows. You can find routes that provide continuous river views, as well as those that explore the city's green spaces and natural features.
Are there easy urban walks suitable for families in Davenport?
Yes, Davenport has several easy urban walks perfect for families. The Riverfront Trail to Fort Armstrong is an easy 5.7 km route offering pleasant river views. Another great option is the Sylvan Slough – Schwiebert Riverfront Park loop from Davenport, which is an easy 5.3 km loop.
What are the best trails for experiencing the Mississippi River in Davenport?
For immersive Mississippi River views, the Mississippi River Trail: Davenport to Bettendorf offers an extensive experience. Shorter, easy options include the Riverfront Trail to Fort Armstrong and the Sylvan Slough – Schwiebert Riverfront Park loop from Davenport, both providing excellent riverfront access.
Are there any circular urban hiking routes in Davenport?
Yes, the Sylvan Slough – Schwiebert Riverfront Park loop from Davenport is a great circular route. It's an easy 5.3 km loop that allows you to explore the riverfront and park areas without retracing your steps.
What landmarks or points of interest can I see along urban trails in Davenport?
Along Davenport's urban trails, you can encounter several notable landmarks. The Government Bridge and the impressive I-74 Pedestrian and Bicycle Bridge are prominent features. You can also explore the natural beauty of Sylvan Slough.
What is the best time of year for urban hiking in Davenport?
Davenport's urban trails are enjoyable throughout much of the year. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, with blooming flowers or colorful foliage. Summer is also popular, especially along the riverfront, though it can be warm. Winter walks can be beautiful, particularly after a fresh snowfall.
Are there urban trails in Davenport that are suitable for dogs?
Many urban parks and trails in Davenport are dog-friendly, provided pets are kept on a leash. The riverfront paths, including sections of the Mississippi River Trail and trails within parks like Credit Island Park, are popular choices for walking with dogs. Always remember to clean up after your pet.
What are some of the natural features I can expect to see on urban hikes in Davenport?
Beyond the Mississippi River, Davenport's urban hikes showcase diverse natural features. You'll find rolling hills, woodlands, and even native prairie fields in parks like Sunderbruch Park. Other areas feature lakes and marshes, providing varied ecosystems and opportunities for wildlife observation.
How many urban hiking routes are available in Davenport?
This guide features 4 urban hiking routes around Davenport, ranging from easy strolls to more challenging long-distance paths. These include 2 easy routes, 1 moderate route, and 1 difficult route, catering to various preferences and fitness levels.
What do other hikers say about urban trails in Davenport?
The urban hiking trails in Davenport are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the scenic river views, the well-maintained paths, and the accessibility of these trails within the city's green spaces.
Are there any longer, more challenging urban hikes in Davenport?
Yes, for those seeking a longer and more challenging urban hike, the Mississippi River Trail: Davenport to Bettendorf is a difficult 59.4 km route. It offers an extensive journey along the river, suitable for experienced hikers looking for a full-day adventure or multi-day exploration.
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