Raccoon River Valley Trail
Abandoned railroad through Iowa's prairie heart
The old Chicago, Rock Island & Pacific Railroad grade cuts through the heart of Iowa’s prairie country, passing abandoned coal tipples and limestone quarries that once fed America’s westward expansion. This 89-mile converted rail-trail follows the Raccoon River valley from Waukee to Jefferson, crossing dozens of wooden trestle bridges and fording Raccoon Creek at multiple points where the original railroad bridges have been removed.
Easy going for any vehicle with decent ground clearance, though spring floods can make creek crossings impassable for days. Best tackled April through October when water levels are manageable. No permits needed, but bring recovery gear for the muddy bottomland sections near Adel and Van Meter. You’ll traverse genuine prairie remnants and see Iowa as the pioneers did – endless grass seas broken by wooded creek bottoms.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Easy |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Overland Route |
| Surface | Gravel |
| Features | Historic, Scenic, Water Crossings |
| Length (miles) | 89 mi / 143.2 km |
| Duration | 1-2 days |
| Max elevation (ft) | 1240 ft |
| Best season | April-October |
| Minimum vehicle | High clearance 2WD |
| Nearest town | Waukee, Iowa |
| Land manager | Iowa Department of Natural Resources |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | Spotty |
| Water crossings | Yes |
| Dispersed camping | No |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
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| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can I run this trail in a stock pickup truck without 4WD?
Yes, high clearance 2WD is sufficient for the gravel surface. The trail follows an old railroad grade so it's relatively level with minimal technical sections.
Is the Raccoon River Valley Trail accessible in winter?
The trail can be impassable during Iowa winters due to snow and ice conditions. Best season runs April through October when weather is more predictable.
Do I need any permits to drive this trail?
No permits required. The trail is managed by Iowa DNR as public access, though some sections may cross private property where staying on the designated route is essential.
How deep are the water crossings and what's the worst section?
Creek crossings are typically shallow but can vary with seasonal rainfall. The deepest crossings occur where the trail intersects with Middle Raccoon River tributaries - scout before committing.
Should I plan fuel stops for this 89-mile trail?
Definitely fuel up before starting as you'll pass through rural areas with limited services. Plan for fuel stops in towns like Adel or Van Meter rather than counting on trail-side options.