February 2026 | Raccoon River Valley Trail Association Newsletter
- 3 days ago
- 6 min read
Updated: 2 days ago
Tickets Now on Sale: Join Us for RRVTA's 20th Anniversary Banquet
Tickets are now on sale for the Raccoon River Valley Trail Association (RRVTA) Annual Fundraising Banquet — and this year’s event is extra special as we celebrate 20 years of the RRVTA.
The banquet brings together trail supporters from across central Iowa for an evening of community, storytelling, and support for one of the nation’s iconic trails. Proceeds help advance trail amenities, safety, outreach, and long-term sustainability across the 14 trail towns.
We are especially excited to welcome Mark Phippen, Director of RAGBRAI, as this year’s featured speaker. Mark will share insights on Iowa’s classic bike rides, cycling tourism, and the role cycling plays in building healthy, connected communities.
Returning as emcee is Jason Sydeko, whose energy and enthusiasm will guide us through the evening’s program.
A highlight of the night will be the presentation of the Trail Champion Award, recognizing an individual whose leadership, advocacy, and long-standing commitment have made a lasting impact on the Raccoon River Valley Trail. As we mark RRVTA’s 20th anniversary, this award honors the spirit of volunteerism that has shaped the trail’s success.
Guests will also enjoy both silent and live auctions, featuring unique Iowa-based items and experiences — always a favorite part of the evening and a vital source of support for the trail.
We invite trail users, supporters, and friends to join us for this milestone celebration.
How the Raccoon River Valley Trail Came to Be: Building the Trail, One Segment at a Time
The story of the RRVT began in 1989, when the first completed segment—between Panora and Yale—opened on July 4. It was a modest beginning, but it marked the start of what would become the longest paved loop trail in the nation.
By 1990, the trail had already grown to 34 miles, stretching from Waukee to Yale. Over the next decade, steady progress continued. Between 1997 and 2001, the trail was extended from Jefferson to Cooper, with construction advancing through Herndon, which would later become a key junction point.
A major milestone came with the North Loop Project (2008–2013). This ambitious expansion added 33 miles of trail, creating a large loop through Dallas Center, Minburn Perry, Dawson, Jamaica, and Herndon. When the North Loop was officially completed in 2013, the RRVT became a continuous 72-mile paved loop—the longest of its kind anywhere in the country.
Connectivity continued to improve in 2016, when the Clive Greenbelt Trail linked the RRVT directly to the growing Des Moines metro trail system. Most recently, in 2024, the long-anticipated RRVT–High Trestle Trail Connector opened between Perry and Woodward, further expanding regional trail access and solidifying the RRVT’s place in Iowa’s statewide trail network.
What Would It Cost to Build the RRVT Today?
When construction began in the late 1980s and early 1990s, trail development costs were dramatically lower—typically around $100,000 to $150,000 per mile.
Today, those numbers look very different. In 2025 dollars, constructing a concrete multi-use trail typically costs between $800,000 and $1.2 million per mile, depending on terrain, site preparation, and access challenges. At today’s prices, building the Raccoon River Valley Trail from scratch would likely cost between $71 million and $107 million.
That perspective underscores just how remarkable—and how forward-thinking—the original trail vision was.
100% of proceeds support RRVT
PURCHASE RRVT APPAREL
New RRVTA Bike Jerseys Now Available
Show your trail pride and support the Raccoon River Valley Trail with the new RRVTA bike jerseys, now available at Bike World locations throughout the Des Moines metro.
These jerseys aren’t just great-looking and trail-ready—they’re a meaningful way to give back. Proceeds from jersey sales directly support the RRVTA’s work to promote, enhance, and advocate for the 89-mile Raccoon River Valley Trail and the 14 communities it connects.
Whether you’re riding the full loop, logging miles close to home, or traveling Iowa’s trail network, wearing an RRVTA jersey is a great way to represent one of the state’s most iconic trails.
Supplies are limited, so stop by Bike World and get yours today—and help keep the trail strong for years to come.
Long-Sleeve RRVT Shirts Now Available!
Looking for a great way to show your trail pride — and stay warm on those early spring and fall rides?
Long-sleeve Raccoon River Valley Trail shirts are now available for $35 at:
The Minburn Convenience Store in Minburn
B&B Coffee Shop in Panora
Every shirt purchase directly supports the work of the Raccoon River Valley Trail Association, helping fund trail amenities, outreach, and special projects across our 14 trail towns. We’ll be adding additional shirt sale locations in the coming weeks, so stay tuned for updates in future newsletters and on our website and social media.
Whether you’re logging miles on a crisp morning or enjoying coffee after a ride, this is a simple way to support the RRVT.
Adel RRVT Bridge Fire - Court & Repair Update
One of three individuals charged in connection with last year’s fire on the Raccoon River Valley Trail bridge in Adel has been sentenced to up to 10 years in prison.
Daniel Sheeder, 19, pleaded guilty to first-degree criminal mischief and second-degree arson. Two others involved — Ezra Coulter and Leola Pierce — also pleaded guilty and received suspended sentences with probation and fines.
The fire caused significant damage to the iconic LED-lit bridge and required response from fire departments across six nearby communities.
The good news: repairs are moving forward. Construction is expected to begin this month, with the bridge projected to reopen by August following a $598,000 replacement project approved by Dallas County.
We appreciate the patience of trail users and the efforts of first responders and local officials working to restore this important community asset.
This summary is adapted from reporting by the Des Moines Register
Rules of the Trail
Simple etiquette that keeps mixed-use paths safe and enjoyable for everyone
The Raccoon River Valley Trail is shared by cyclists, walkers, runners, families, people using mobility devices — and occasionally a four-legged friend or two. That mix is part of what makes the trail special. It’s also why a little courtesy goes a long way.
Whether you’re a daily rider or a casual stroller, these basic “rules of the trail” help ensure everyone has a safe, positive experience.
Share the Space
Mixed-use trails work best when everyone remembers one thing: we’re all guests here.
Stay to the right, pass on the left
Move predictably — sudden stops or swerves create hazards
Keep groups no more than two abreast when others are nearby
Step off the trail surface if you need to stop for a break
Passing: Say It Early, Say It Clearly
Most close calls happen during passes.
Cyclists should announce passes early (“On your left”)
Use a bell or voice — both are effective
Slow down when passing walkers, kids, or pets
Walkers and runners: avoid sudden moves after hearing a call-out
A friendly heads-up is about safety, not scolding.
Speed Matters
Even on wide, paved trails, speed should match conditions.
Slow down near towns, trailheads, and busy areas
Reduce speed when visibility is limited
Remember that not all trail users can react quickly
Fast riding belongs on open, uncrowded stretches — not in shared, high-traffic zones.
Be Mindful of Headphones & Phones
Enjoy your music — just stay aware.
Keep volume low enough to hear voices or bells
Avoid walking or riding side-by-side while fully distracted
Look up before changing direction
Awareness is one of the easiest ways to prevent accidents.
Pets on the Trail
Dogs are welcome — with a few important rules.
Keep dogs leashed and under control
Use a short leash, not a retractable one
Be mindful that bikes can startle animals
Always clean up after your pet
A well-managed dog makes the trail better for everyone.
Yielding & Courtesy
Trail etiquette isn’t about strict hierarchy — it’s about respect.
Cyclists yield to pedestrians when needed
Everyone yields to those with mobility devices
Offer a smile or wave — it sets the tone
Courtesy builds the kind of trail culture we all want to be part of.
Leave No Trace
Help keep the trail clean and welcoming.
Pack out what you bring in
Use trash and recycling bins when available
Respect trail closures and detours
Report hazards or damage when you see them
Why Etiquette Matters
Good trail manners do more than prevent collisions — they create trust. When users feel safe and respected, trails become places people return to again and again.
The Raccoon River Valley Trail connects communities, generations, and experiences. A little patience and courtesy help ensure it stays that way.
Share the trail. Be predictable. Be kind.
Celebrate Trails Day Bike Ride
The Raccoon River Valley Trail Association invites you to join us for a Celebrate Trails Day Ride on Saturday, April 25, celebrating health, wellness, and community on the Raccoon River Valley Trail.
The ride begins and ends at the Forest Park Museum in Perry and is a 12-mile round-trip route to Minburn.
Schedule
10:00 AM – Optional health screenings and self-guided museum tours
11:00 AM – Ride begins following brief remarks from our celebrity rider Scott Sumpter (Bike Iowa)
This casual, all-ages ride is open to all experience levels.
More details and registration information coming soon but mark your calendars now for April 25.
