IA DNR: Trails

The Mission of the Iowa DNR is to conserve and enhance our natural resources in cooperation with individuals and organizations to improve the quality of life in Iowa and ensure a legacy for future generations. With this in mind, we strive to provide sustainable trails that and deliver the greatest benefit to the greatest number of Iowans with minimal impact to the environment.

Trail Statistics

Of the + 640 miles of designated trails throughout
Iowa’s State Parks, Recreation Areas, and Forests:
Hikers have access to all trails (640 mi)
Cross Country Skiers have access to 78% (498 mi)
Snowmobiles have access to 57% (364 mi)
Mountain Bikers have access to 42% (268 mi)
Equestrians have access to almost 40% (251 mi)

Management Factors

Numerous aspects of each trail system must be taken into account when deciding how to best manage a trail. These include: people walking trail

Number of trail users
Type of trail users (IE. Hikers, Snowmobilers, Equestrians)
Environmental Impact of each user type
Steepness of slopes and soil erodibility
Type of ecosystem (Prairie, Woodland, and/or Wetland) through which the trail transverses
Type and quality of vegetation present along the trail
Wildlife and wildlife habitat occurring along the trail
Areas of the trail in need of protection
Safety and accessibility (ADA)

Sustainable Trails

Protect the environment (minimum impact to soil, vegetation, and wildlife)
Meet the needs of users
Require little maintenance
Minimize conflict between different user groups

Difficult questions:

How much adverse environmental impact can be tolerated before limiting access to a particular group?
What user-types should be allowed on each trail?
Should the trails be closed in certain conditions?
Close trails when wet in order to prevent erosion and degradation

In managing the trail systems in our state parks, forests, and recreation areas, it is important to find the best possible balance between resource protection and recreation. If a trail requires constant maintenance, the best option for the trail manager may be to replace the problem trail with a more sustainable route. Sustainable trails provide the greatest benefit to both the trail user and the environment.