6 Fun Ways to Enjoy Outdoor Activities in Marshalltown, IA
From biking and hiking to swimming and fishing, you'll get your fill of fun here.
If you have a thirst for outdoor adventure, Marshalltown is ready and waiting to quench it – from dozens of miles of hiking and biking trails right in town to nearby lakes where you can reel in the big one or an aquatic center that lets you put the “lazy” in lazy river as you soak up the sun. Here are six ways to enjoy the bountiful outdoor activities in Marshalltown.
In This Article
1. Linn Creek Recreational Trail
This 8-mile stretch winds through Marshalltown, starting at Riverview Park and ending at Grimes Farm before linking up with the Heart of Iowa trail. All through the journey, the trail runs parallel to Linn Creek, except at the start where you can ride along the Iowa River at Riverview Park. Go from a trail in town to getting enveloped by nature in a wooded trail on the western edge of town, which leads to Grimes Farm and Conservation Center.
A recent resurfacing of the trail has led to an even smoother ride. Marshalltown resident Bill Rakers loves the trail and bikes on it throughout the year. “The trail is something to be proud of in Marshalltown,” Rakers says. “People really enjoy it a lot, and it’s a great way to get exercise.”
2. Grimes Farm and Conservation Center
The Grimes Farm and Conservation Center has it all, from grass to hard surface trails, an observation tower, nature playscape for the kids and more. Located on the western edge of Marshalltown, the center lets you escape into nature while barely leaving town. The conservation center is a great place for a meeting and, while you are there, check out the taxidermy animals on display.
3. Sand Lake
Operated by Marshall County Conservation, Sand Lake is actually three lakes in one and just a few minutes from downtown Marshalltown. Enjoy fishing, trail walking and a new picnic area. It’s a great place to hit early in the morning or to watch the sunset glisten off the water.
4. Aquatic Center
Whether it’s zooming down a slide, splashing it up in the water or relaxing on the lazy river, the aquatic center has it all – a great way to catch some rays or cool off on a warm day. All ages enjoy this bastion of refreshment during the warm summer months.
5. Marshalltown City Parks
There are dozens of parks and playgrounds in Marshalltown. Try your luck on the zipline at Mega-10 Park or visit the city’s biggest park – Riverview Park – where you will find a disc golf course and a dog park as well as camping along the Iowa River. Also, be sure to learn the game of futsal at West End Park.
6. Marshall County Parks
Marshall County parks just minutes away from Marshalltown include Timmons Grove with camping and trails along the Iowa River and Green Castle Recreation Area with trails and a lake. They are operated by the Marshall County Conservation Board, which continues to look to add more land and features for public use.
And Now for a Bonus …
Resident Spotlight
Rocio Villagomez loves Marshalltown. Her local pride was evident when she entered a Marshalltown Area Chamber of Commerce selfie contest and submitted her picture in front of dozens of places. “Marshalltown is a great place to grow a family and yourself,” she says. She also said she loves the diversity the town and the parks. “The thing I enjoy the most is running on the Linn Creek trail. I always see something or someone new, and it makes me love Marshalltown even more.” Rocio, a health aid in Marshalltown Schools, is a lifelong Marshalltown resident.
