May 2025 | Raccoon River Valley Trail Association Newsletter
- Shaun Riekena
- May 14
- 7 min read
Updated: May 19
Celebrate Trails Day Draws Riders and History Buffs to the RRVT
Over 50 bicyclists gathered on April 26 to commemorate the national Celebrate Trails Day with a scenic and social ride along the Raccoon River Valley Trail. This year’s event featured a round-trip route from Yale to Linden, combining outdoor recreation with a dose of local history and community spirit.
Riders kicked off from Yale and traveled the trail to Linden and back, enjoying the beauty of Guthrie County’s countryside. Before the ride participants were treated to a unique opportunity: guided tours of the historic round gymnasium in Yale, a rare architectural gem with deep community roots. The tours were led by Dale Louk, whose knowledge and personal experiences brought the gym's story to life. Special thanks go to Beverly Louk, Mayor of Yale, for coordinating access and arrangements for the tour.
In Linden, the community also came out to support the event. The Linden Library Foundation hosted a bake sale to benefit the library, offering riders a chance to refuel with homemade treats while contributing to a worthy local cause.
Celebrate Trails Day is an annual national observance promoted by the Rails-to-Trails Conservancy to highlight the many benefits of America’s trail systems. The Raccoon River Valley Trail Association was proud to host a local celebration that blended fitness, fun, and hometown heritage.
Join the Movement: Help Guide the Future of the Raccoon River Valley Trail
Are you passionate about trails, outdoor recreation, and community development? Do you want to play a role in shaping the future of one of Iowa’s most treasured recreational assets? The Raccoon River Valley Trail Association (RRVTA) is seeking new members to join its Board of Directors—and we’d love to hear from you!
About the RRVTA
The Raccoon River Valley Trail Association is a non-profit organization founded in 2006. Born from a grassroots task force of dedicated volunteers in 2004–2005, the RRVTA has always been driven by a shared vision: to promote and market the Raccoon River Valley Trail, and to support tourism and economic development across Dallas, Greene, and Guthrie counties.
Thanks to years of collaboration and community support, the trail has become a Hall of Fame Trail and a key attraction for cyclists, runners, walkers, and outdoor enthusiasts throughout the state and beyond.
Why Join the Board?
As a member of the RRVTA Board of Directors, you’ll have a direct hand in:
Guiding promotional efforts and strategic initiatives
Strengthening relationships with local governments, businesses, and trail users
Supporting events, outreach, and fundraising
Advocating for continued trail development and maintenance
Making an impact in your community and the broader region
We are especially seeking board members from Dallas Center, Jefferson, and Perry—key communities along the trail—who can bring their unique local knowledge, energy, and ideas to our work.
Who Should Apply?
We welcome individuals who:
Are enthusiastic about the trail and outdoor recreation
Have connections to or interest in community development and tourism
Bring professional skills, nonprofit experience, or simply a strong willingness to serve
Can commit to attending monthly board meetings (by Zoom) and actively participating in committee work and events
How to Get Involved
To learn more or express your interest in joining the RRVTA Board of Directors, please contact Pat Steele, Racoon River Valley Trail Association Chair at RRVTAchair@gmail.com
PURCHASE RRVT APPAREL
100% of proceeds support RRVT
Staying Safe on the Raccoon River Valley Trail: A Guide for Cyclists
Market to Market Relay – May 10
The Raccoon River Valley Trail is one of Iowa’s most scenic and popular recreational trails, attracting thousands of cyclists each year to its 89 miles of paved path, charming towns, and natural beauty. With the biking season in full swing, here are some essential tips to ensure your time on the trail is both fun and safe:
Wear a Helmet—Every Ride, Every Time
This is the single most important step you can take to protect yourself. Helmets reduce the risk of serious head injuries in the event of a fall or collision. Make sure it fits snugly and is properly fastened before setting out.
Be Visible
Even on bright days, wear high-visibility clothing and use front and rear lights—especially at dawn, dusk, or in wooded stretches. Reflective gear and bike-mounted reflectors are critical for making sure others can see you.
Keep Right and Pass Politely
The trail is shared by cyclists, walkers, runners, and occasionally maintenance vehicles. Always keep to the right side of the trail and pass on the left, announcing your presence with a bell or a clear, friendly “On your left!”
Obey Trail Signs and Signals
Stop signs, mile markers, and directional signs are posted throughout the trail system for your safety and navigation. Yield at intersections, and always come to a full stop when crossing roads.
Control Your Speed
While it’s tempting to cruise fast on the smooth pavement, be mindful of other users and adjust your speed in busy areas, around curves, or in trailheads where visibility is limited.
Stay Alert
Avoid distractions like loud music or texting while riding. Scan ahead for wildlife, debris, or other users who may suddenly enter your path. On rural stretches, be alert at farm crossings and driveways.
Hydrate and Carry Supplies
Bring water, snacks, and a basic repair kit. Cell service can be spotty in some rural areas, so consider carrying a printed trail map or downloading one in advance.
Respect the Trail and Community
Pack out any trash, be courteous to others, and follow local regulations. The towns along the trail work hard to maintain it—help keep it clean and welcoming for all.
Ride Sober and Within Your Limits
Operating a bicycle while impaired is dangerous. If you're fatigued, overheated, or unsure of your stamina, take breaks or shorten your ride.
Know What to Do in an Emergency
Carry ID and an emergency contact number. If you or someone else is injured or in distress, call 911 and provide as much location detail as possible—mile markers and nearby towns can help responders locate you quickly.
The Raccoon River Valley Trail offers a wonderful escape into Iowa’s landscapes, history, and hospitality. By following these safety tips, you’ll help ensure that it remains a safe and enjoyable resource for everyone—now and for generations to come.
Ride smart. Ride safe. And enjoy the RRVT
Upcoming Events on the RRVT
Gary’s Ride – May 17
Join other cyclists on May 17 at 10:00 AM for Gary’s Ride, starting at the trailhead in Waukee. This annual ride honors the memory of a beloved cyclist who passed away from brain cancer, with proceeds supporting RDCC Integrative Medicine and Clinical Trials for terminal brain cancer patients.
Participants can choose from several route distances, all finishing at The Handlebar Restaurant in Dallas Center, where food, beverages, and live music await.
For more information, contact Kristin Wiedenfeld at 515-512-3835 or email garysrideiowa@gmail.com.
The Bacoon Ride – June 14
Mark your calendar for Saturday, June 14—the Bacoon Ride is back! This wildly popular event draws cyclists from all over the country, combining two Iowa favorites: bacon and the Raccoon River Valley Trail.
Riders will stop in various towns along the route to enjoy bacon-themed food and drinks, making for a tasty and memorable experience. Plus, the ride supports local charities, blending fun with philanthropy.
Registration perks include:
Multiple bacon stops with delicious samples
A PassPORK (your official punch card for bacon treats!)
A special Bacoon-themed commemorative item
Despite ongoing construction between Adel and Ortonville, the entire loop will be open for the Bacoon Ride. Crews are working on the bridges in this section, with completion expected before the event. The remainder of the trail work, replacing old asphalt with concrete, will begin after Bacoon.
This event is also part of the Iowa Bicycle Coalition's official training rides for RAGBRAI—don’t miss out on the fun!
Sign up today at www.eventbrite.com/e/bacoon-ride-2025-tickets-1218016011679
2025 Wheeling with Waukee Annual Bike Ride
Grab your friends and get ready to ride through Waukee at the Waukee Area Chamber's 1st Annual WHEELING WITH WAUKEE Bike Ride!
Join us on Saturday, June 28th, starting at the Waukee Trailhead and bike the Raccoon River Valley Trail to Dallas Center (12 mile round trip)!
Registration will begin at 9:00 and the ride will begin at 10:00! Join us after you're done riding at Kenny's Garage for a social!
**Register by June 13th to receive a bike ride t-shirt with registration!
Register at the Waukee Area Chamber Office - www.chamber.com
Date and Time
Saturday Jun 28, 2025
9:00 AM - 12:00 PM CDT
9:00 - Registration Begins
10:00 - Ride Begins
Location: Raccoon River Valley Trailhead
Fees/Admission: $40
South Loop Trail Rehabilitation - Phase IV Update
Phase IV of the South Loop Rehabilitation is now underway. This phase includes widening the trail bridges and resurfacing the trail with concrete. Bridge widening work has begun, and asphalt removal and concrete paving will start in June, following the Baccoon Ride.
Trail Closure Details
Affected Section: Three miles from Ortonville to Adel, or from Ortonville to the Dallas Center exit off Highway 6.
Timeline: Work will continue throughout the summer with a tentative completion date in late August or early September
Trail is closed at both ends of the impacted section.
No official detour is available.
Access to Adel from Redfield remains open.
We appreciate your patience and support as we improve the trail for long-term use.
Major Funding Boost for Raccoon River Valley Trail Improvements
Exciting progress is underway on the Raccoon River Valley Trail as the Greene and Guthrie County Conservation departments moves forward with plans to improve the trail surface between Winkelman Switch (near Jefferson) and Yale. Thanks to a generous four-year Legacy Grant from Grow Greene County, the project received a significant $500,000 funding boost.
This critical support gets the effort nearly halfway to its total funding goal, bringing long-anticipated improvements closer to reality. The segment between Winkelman Switch and Yale is a popular stretch of the trail, and its surface enhancements will significantly improve safety, accessibility, and the overall experience for users.
With a few additional grant opportunities on the horizon the two counites are optimistic about reaching full funding soon.
A Fire on the "Lighted Bridge" in Adel
On May 12, a fire severely damaged the iconic "Lighted Bridge" on the Raccoon River Valley Trail (RRVT) near Adel. The bridge, a beloved landmark, had recently undergone a $500,000 renovation that included upgraded railings and lighting. Dallas County Conservation estimates the cost to repair the structure will be approximately $896,000.
The fire was caused by three local teenagers who built an uncontrolled bonfire beneath the bridge. All three have since been arrested and charged.
In response to the damage, organizers of the 2025 Bacoon Ride—the Iowa Bicycle Coalition—have implemented a detour to ensure participants can safely travel through Adel. Cyclists will exit the RRVT at South 6th Street in Adel, proceed east along Highway 6, and rejoin the trail at Prospect Avenue. This detour has been approved and coordinated with the Iowa Department of Transportation, Iowa State Patrol, City of Adel, and Dallas County Conservation to prioritize rider safety.
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