Cedar Valley Nature Trail - Hiawatha, IA
Cedar Valley Nature Trail Dog-Friendly Park in Hiawatha, Iowa
Cedar Valley Nature Trail is a top choice for dog owners seeking a pet-friendly hiking and walking destination in Hiawatha, Iowa. This extensive trail, spanning about 55 miles, offers scenic views of Iowa farmland, woodlands, and wildlife—perfect for both leisurely strolls and active adventures with your furry friend. The trail features a paved surface in many sections for easy walking or biking, though some areas may be subject to maintenance or uneven terrain marked for repair.
The park is known for its natural beauty, lined with mature trees providing ample shade along the way, and opportunities to spot local wildlife including birds, squirrels, and rabbits. While it’s not a traditional, fenced-in dog park, the Cedar Valley Nature Trail is excellent for leashed walks, nature exploration, and socializing with other friendly dogs and their owners. Amenities around the park include benches, a picnic area, a small playground for kids, and a covered shelter with tables for relaxing after your hike—though parking can be limited during busy times.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, Cedar Valley Nature Trail is a dog-friendly hiking and biking trail that stretches about 55 miles.
- Is there a playground or activities for kids nearby? Yes, there is a small playground and activities for children near the trail.
- Is there shade or shelter available? Yes, the trail is lined with trees providing natural shade, and there is a covered pavilion with picnic tables.
- Is the park muddy after it rains? Yes, the area can be muddy and may stay soggy for a while, especially in lower or mulched playground areas.
- Are there benches or seating areas for owners? Yes, benches and picnic tables are available along the trail and in the park.
- Are there water fountains or bowls for dogs? There is a water spigot in nearby La Porte City, but water fountains in the park may be muddy or not always clean—bringing your own dog water is recommended.
Reviews
Nice paved surface, areas that have buckled are spray painted orange/red (warning or designated for future repairs?). Not a whole bunch of people out this morning. Few rabbits, lots of birds.
Nice trail, trees line much of the way with convenient places to stop. The fallen tree was cleared by the time I turned around a couple hours later.
This is my favorite trail I run an average of 7 miles a day on this trail it’s about 55 mi long so you can change locations very quick excellent for biking nature walks a lot of Iowa farm land out there
There were plenty of birds to watch. I haven’t seen so many cardinals in one place before! Perfect habit for birds, squirrels and even saw some rabbits. Deer, opossum, racoons maybe when there’s no people around. Found a big beautiful oak tree on the trail.
Took my bike the entire trail. My favorite part is the section from La Porte city to Brandon. The scenery is absolutely breath taking in the fall! 10/10 (just be sure to take plenty of water is there isn’t really anywhere to fill up, except a spigot in la porte city)