Ely

The Cedar Valley Nature Trail – Tree of Five Seasons loop from Cedar Rapids offers a delightful touring cycling experience, winding through diverse landscapes from urban settings to the tranquil Cedar River Flood Plain. You'll pedal past forested banks, open vistas, and even oxbow lakes, with opportunities to spot local wildlife. The route is mostly paved, making for a smooth ride, and its easy difficulty means you can enjoy the scenery without breaking a sweat.

Planning your ride is straightforward, with ample amenities along the way. As a rail-to-trail conversion, the path is largely flat, minimizing challenging climbs. You'll find convenient access points with parking, water, and restrooms roughly every 10 miles, plus bike repair stations at some trailheads. This makes the Cedar Valley Nature Trail a great option for a relaxed outing, especially during pleasant weather.

This loop is part of Iowa's pioneering rail-to-trail network, utilizing abandoned railroad beds for a level, accessible path. The route's namesake, the "Tree of Five Seasons" sculpture in downtown Cedar Rapids, serves as a unique urban landmark. The trail also connects to other systems, like the Cedar River Trail, offering options for longer adventures and cementing its status as a popular route for family-friendly cycling.

The Tree of Five Seasons – Cedar Valley Nature Trail loop from Mount Mercy University offers a dynamic touring cycling experience, blending city sights with natural beauty. You'll ride through forested areas, wetlands, and open farmlands, with sections offering views of the Cedar River and passing through charming urban districts like Czech Village and NewBo. The highlight is undoubtedly the unique Tree of Five Seasons monument in downtown Cedar Rapids, a striking artistic tribute to nature.

This moderate 37.7-mile (60.7 km) route, with 843 feet (257 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes about 3 hours and 32 minutes to complete. The trail is mostly paved and follows a gentle grade, making it accessible for touring cyclists with good fitness. You'll find amenities like water, restrooms, and even a bike repair station at various points along the Cedar Valley Nature Trail.

This loop is a fantastic way to experience both the urban pulse of Cedar Rapids and the tranquil landscapes of the Cedar Valley. As Iowa's first rail-to-trail conversion, the Cedar Valley Nature Trail is a significant part of the American Discovery Trail and the Great American Rail-Trail, offering a unique blend of history and natural exploration.

The Ely loop from Kirkwood Community College offers a delightful touring bicycle experience, guiding you through the pleasant, mostly paved terrain of Linn County. You'll pedal towards the charming, historic town of Ely, Iowa, passing by its well-preserved structures like the old Ely School House, which adds a touch of local character to your ride. The route provides a smooth journey through the gently rolling landscape, making it one of the popular bike trails near Ely Iowa for those who enjoy a relaxed pace.

Planning your visit is straightforward, with ample parking for cyclists at Kirkwood Community College, serving as an ideal starting point. The best time of year for Ely loop cycling from Kirkwood Community College is during the warmer months, from spring through fall, when the weather is most conducive to a comfortable ride. This moderate route is accessible for most cyclists, requiring good fitness but no advanced technical skills.

This route is more than just a loop; it's a segment of a much larger network, connecting to the extensive Cedar Valley Nature Trail, which itself is part of the American Discovery Trail and the Great American Rail Trail. This connectivity means you can easily extend your ride for longer touring cycling loops near Kirkwood Community College, exploring more of the region's natural features and scenic pathways.