Neal Smith Trail – Saylorville Dam loop from Staff Parking
Neal Smith Trail – Saylorville Dam loop from Staff Parking
4.7
(8645)
14,226
riders
Neal Smith Trail – Saylorville Dam loop from Staff Parking
03:24
52.0km
270m
Road cycling
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride. The starting point of the route is right next to a parking lot.
Last updated: May 15, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
4.47 km
Prairie Lakes
Highlight (Segment) • Lake
Tip by
20.3 km
Big Creek State Park
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
25.1 km
Neal Smith Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
29.3 km
Neal Smith Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
32.5 km
Big Creek Barrier Dam and views of Saylorville Lake
Highlight • Monument
Tip by
42.7 km
Saylorville Lake Visitor Center
Highlight • Rest Area
Tip by
42.9 km
Saylorville Dam
Highlight • Monument
Tip by
52.0 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
36.9 km
11.4 km
3.74 km
< 100 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
39.9 km
8.82 km
3.38 km
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Elevation
Highest point (300 m)
Lowest point (240 m)
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Weather
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Today
Saturday 27 June
27°C
18°C
30 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 17.0 km/h
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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're looking for a substantial road cycling route that blends scenic views with a decent workout, the Neal Smith Trail – Saylorville Dam loop from Staff Parking is a solid choice. This moderate 32.3-mile (52.0 km) ride packs in 877 feet (267 metres) of elevation gain, taking about 3 hours and 23 minutes to complete. It's ideal for road cyclists with good fitness who appreciate diverse landscapes and don't mind a few challenging sections.
What to expect on Neal Smith Trail – Saylorville Dam loop from Staff Parking
This route takes you on a journey through the picturesque Des Moines River valley, offering continuous panoramic views of Saylorville Lake. You'll pedal through a mosaic of landscapes, from riverbanks and wildflower meadows to dense forests and rolling prairies. Keep an eye out for wildlife like deer and muskrats, especially near the Ding Darling Greenway or the butterfly garden by the Saylorville Lake Visitor Center. While the trail is mostly well-paved asphalt, be prepared for hills, curves, and elevation changes, particularly along the lake. It's worth noting that some sections have been reported to have cracks and rough patches, so road cyclists should exercise caution and be aware of potential surface deterioration.
Planning your visit
The trail is accessible from Staff Parking, which provides a convenient starting point for this loop. Along the route, you'll find Army Corps-managed campgrounds, picnic areas, and restrooms, with the Saylorville Lake Visitor Center serving as a popular rest stop. The trail is open year-round, but spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. Given the length and elevation, ensure you carry enough water, especially during warmer months. While generally well-maintained, always check for recent trail condition reports, as resurfacing projects can occasionally lead to temporary closures.
Trail details
- Distance: 32.3 miles (52.0 km)
- Elevation gain: 877 feet (267 metres)
- Difficulty: moderate
- Estimated time: 3 hours and 23 minutes
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