Hit the Trails in Ames, Iowa, for Exercise, Fun and Community
Iowans love an active lifestyle, and there’s no easier way to stay fit and connected in the Story County region than by hitting the trails in Ames, Iowa.
The 25-mile High Trestle Trail draws visitors from across Iowa, with a highlight being a ride on the 13-story bridge that goes across the Des Moines River Valley. The bridge, which is located just outside of Madrid, is perhaps the most well-known stretch of bike trail in the entire state.
“It’s kind of majestic,” says Jeri Neal, an avid cyclist who is a member of the Ames Bicycle Coalition. “And you don’t think of majestic views in the middle of Iowa. It’s an amazing view of the river valley.”
The High Trestle Trail runs through five towns and four counties in the area, which is also rich with other trails and outdoor adventures.
Neal also enjoys rides through Ada Hayden Heritage Park in Ames, which features a scenic lake.
“That park is a favorite for a lot of people because there’s a lot of things going on out there, not just biking,” she says.
Ada Hayden is also a haven for runners like Ethan Mesenbrink, who is manager of Fitness Sports, a shop in Ames that specializes in shoes for running and walking.
“I love to run around the gravel and paved trails at Ada Hayden,” he says. “The best view in Ames is at the top of the Upland Trail at Ada Hayden. You can see the entire park from there.”
Mesenbrink also loves to run at McFarland Park and through the woods at Carr Park in Ames.
Ronn Ritz, who owns Skunk River Cycles, a full-service bike shop in Ames, and an avid cyclist, has witnessed the evolution of the area’s trails firsthand.
“I’ve lived in Ames since I was a student in the 1960s,” Ritz says. “I’ve really been impressed with the development of bicycle trails through the years, and it’s going to continue.”
Boone County also boasts the Boone River Recreational Trail, and the JewEllsworth Trail, a paved trail north of Ames that connects the communities of Jewell and Ellsworth, is a can’t-miss.
Take It Off-Road for Extra Adventure
Off-road cyclists and pedestrians also have many options for recreation in the area, like Skunk River Greenbelt Trail, which stretches from Story City to Ames. It runs parallel to the Skunk River, and there’s even a water trail for kayakers and tubers.
Additionally, the Heart of Iowa Nature Trail, which runs along an old railway, spans 32 miles. Take the trail west, and you’ll hit the paved and aforementioned High Trestle Trail. Depending on the season, you might see people riding snowmobiles or horses on this multiuse trail.
Ritz loves to test himself on the area’s off-road trails.
“One of the nicest ways to get outside is to get on your bike and enjoy the sights in the area,” Ritz says.
Local Shops Support Walkers, Runners, Bikers
Whether you love to walk, jog or bike the area’s trails, this region has the shops you need to support your hobby. For example, beginner and avid cyclists will want to visit Ritz’s Skunk River Cycles, which is located on Main Street in downtown Ames.
Ritz says his shop offers bikes, clothing, bike repairs and more, and it serves as a great place to promote cycling for recreation and enjoyment for all ages.
“We hand out maps to riders who are new to the area,” Ritz says.
JAX Outdoor Gear, located on the west side of Ames, also has you covered, whether you are looking for clothing or the necessities you need to camp, paddle, hunt or fish.
And for runners, Fitness Sports in Ames offers top-of-the-line running shoes and accessories.
Fly Solo or Find Community
While some love to enjoy trails alone, others look to find more of a community — thankfully, both are available here. There are opportunities to join in on area rides, with a monthly calendar organized by Ames Velo. This community-based cycling club also puts on the Iowa Games Gravel Grinder Race.
Additionally, the Ames Bicycle Coalition helps foster continuing opportunities for all cyclists by partnering with the City of Ames on projects and plans that spawn new trails and offerings.
“We have a very positive and long-running relationship with the City of Ames,” Neal says.
Outdoor fun is nearly endless in this region, no matter the activity.
“The variety of activities available makes the outdoors fun in Ames,” Mesenbrink says. “I love to go on runs around town and play disc golf. There are lots of places that make these activities easily accessible.”
Get to Know the Ames Region
Want to learn more about living and working in Ames, IA? Check out the latest edition of Livability Ames, Iowa, And The Greater Boone, Hamilton & Story County Region.