May 2026 | Raccoon River Valley Trail Association Newsletter
- May 15
- 6 min read
Updated: 4 days ago
Upcoming Events on the Trail
The Raccoon River Valley Trail was busy the first half of May with two major events bringing riders and runners to the region.
Gary’s Annual Brain Cancer Bike Ride on May 16 drew participants from across central Iowa for a meaningful day of cycling, community, and support in the fight against brain cancer. Riders traveled from Waukee to Dallas Center along the trail, finishing with a celebration downtown. The event once again highlighted how the trail brings people together for causes that make a difference while also showcasing the welcoming communities connected by the RRVT.
Just one week earlier, the annual Market to Market Relay brought another wave of energy to the trail corridor. More than 200 teams participated in the popular running relay on May 9, with portions of the course utilizing the Raccoon River Valley Trail. The event drew participants and spectators from across the Midwest and provided another strong reminder of the RRVT’s role as both a recreation destination and an economic driver for local communities.
Bacoon Ride – June 20
The Bacoon Ride returns on June 20 and continues to be one of Iowa’s most popular and unique cycling events. This fun, social ride takes participants through several Raccoon River Valley Trail communities, with themed bacon stops along the way that have become a signature part of the experience.
Riders can choose their distance and pace, making this event accessible for a wide range of participants—from casual riders to more experienced cyclists. Along the route, you’ll find food, entertainment, and plenty of opportunities to stop, relax, and enjoy the hospitality of local communities.
The Bacoon Ride is known not only for its fun atmosphere, but also for the energy it brings to trail towns—supporting local businesses and showcasing everything the RRVT has to offer.
Events like this highlight what makes the Raccoon River Valley Trail special—bringing people together, supporting meaningful causes, and driving visitors into our trail communities. Whether it’s a charity ride, a themed event, or a casual day on the trail, these gatherings strengthen the connection between the trail and the towns it serves.
Discover a Hidden Gem Along the Trail: Guthrie County Historical Village
One of the highlights of this year’s Celebrate Trails Day Ride was the opportunity for riders to discover one of the RRVT’s hidden gems—the Forest Park Museum. Many participants took time before the ride to tour the museum and explore its fascinating collection of local history exhibits, historic buildings, and artifacts that tell the story of Dallas County and the history of RAGBRAI, the RRVT and biking in Iowa.
That experience is a reminder that the Raccoon River Valley Trail is more than just a place to ride—it is also a gateway to the unique attractions, history, and culture found in communities all along the loop. One of those special destinations is the Guthrie County Historical Village in Panora.
Located just a short distance from the trail, the village offers visitors a chance to step back in time and experience the rich history of Guthrie County and rural Iowa. The Historical Village features a collection of preserved and restored buildings including historic homes, a country schoolhouse, church, general store, and blacksmith shop. The exhibits and artifacts help tell the story of the people and communities that shaped the area we know today.
For trail users, the village provides a unique opportunity to add a cultural and educational stop to their ride. Whether taking a break during a long day on the trail or planning a family outing, the Historical Village offers something for all ages.
The village is especially active during the summer months, when volunteers help bring history to life through tours, demonstrations, and special events. Attractions like the Guthrie County Historical Village help make the RRVT experience unique—connecting outdoor recreation with the history, character, and hospitality of Iowa’s trail communities.
100% of proceeds support RRVT
PURCHASE RRVT APPAREL
Show Your Trail Pride with RRVT Apparel
The Raccoon River Valley Trail Association is excited to offer a growing lineup of RRVT apparel—perfect for riding, relaxing, and showing your trail pride wherever you go.
Our custom RRVT cycling jerseys are now available through Bike World locations across the Des Moines metro. Designed for both comfort and performance, these jerseys are a great way to stand out on the trail while supporting the ongoing promotion and enhancement of the RRVT.
In addition, long-sleeve RRVT shirts are available and have quickly become a favorite among trail users—perfect for cooler rides or casual wear.
RRVT Apparel Options
Cycling Jerseys
Available at Bike World locations (Des Moines metro)
Long-Sleeve RRVT Shirts
Available at select trail-town locations, including:
• Minburn Convenience Store
• B&B Marketplace in Panora
• Kyle’s Bike Shop in Waukee
We’re continuing to explore new ways to make RRVT merchandise more accessible by partnering with local businesses along the trail.
Every purchase helps support the work of the RRVTA—from maintaining and promoting the trail to enhancing the experience for the thousands of people who use it each year.
So whether you’re riding the full loop or just enjoying a short trip between towns, gear up, show your support, and wear the trail with pride!
Leadership Transition Planned for the RRVTA
The Raccoon River Valley Trail Association (RRVTA) will begin a new chapter of leadership on July 1 as new officers officially assume their roles for the organization.
After serving as Chair for four years, Pat Steele will transition leadership responsibilities to Doug Pfeiffer, who will begin a two-year term as Chair of the RRVTA Board of Directors. Dustin Lantz will assume the role of Vice Chair and will also serve a two-year term. Under the association’s leadership succession plan, Lantz is expected to assume the Chair position in 2028.
The RRVTA will also continue to benefit from the experience and continuity of Kevin Leininger, who will remain Treasurer, and Jake Wendler, who will continue serving as Recorder.
Over the past several years, the association has continued to expand its outreach efforts through community engagement, fundraising, advocacy, trail promotions, events, and partnerships with trail communities and county conservation boards. The organization has also increased its focus on economic impact, trail user data, and long-term sustainability initiatives that help preserve and enhance one of Iowa’s premier trail systems.
With new leadership beginning in July, the association looks forward to building on its momentum and continuing to strengthen the trail experience for residents and visitors alike.
Wildlife You'll See Along the RRVT
Exploring the natural side of the Raccoon River Valley Trail
One of the best parts of riding or walking the Raccoon River Valley Trail is experiencing the changing landscapes and wildlife that make the Raccoon River valley unique. Beyond the towns and trailheads, the RRVT passes through river corridors, woodlands, prairie edges, and open farmland — creating habitat for a wide variety of animals and birds.
Every season offers something different to discover along the trail.
Spring: A Season of Activity
Spring brings the trail to life.
Riders often spot:
White-tailed deer emerging from wooded areas
Wild turkeys crossing fields
Red-winged blackbirds returning to wetlands
Hawks circling above open farmland
Songbirds become especially active in the mornings, making spring one of the best times for birdwatching along the RRVT.
Summer: Life Along the River
During the summer months, wildlife activity shifts toward shaded river corridors and prairie edges.
Common sightings include:
Eastern cottontail rabbits
Turtles near bridges and culverts
Great blue herons along waterways
Butterflies and pollinators in prairie areas
Early morning and evening rides are often the best times to spot animals before temperatures rise.
Sharing the Trail with Wildlife
Most wildlife along the RRVT prefers to avoid people, but a few simple habits help keep both trail users and animals safe:
Slow down if animals are near the trail
Never feed wildlife
Keep pets leashed and under control
Give animals space, especially during spring nesting season
Be extra cautious at dawn and dusk when deer are most active
Respecting wildlife helps preserve the natural experience that makes the trail special.
The Ecology of a Rail-Trail
Former railroad corridors often become excellent wildlife habitat because they create long, connected green spaces across the landscape. Trees, grasses, and native plants along the RRVT provide shelter and food for birds, pollinators, and small mammals.
In many ways, the trail functions not only as a recreational corridor, but also as a valuable environmental corridor connecting habitats across central Iowa
More Than a Trail
The RRVT offers more than exercise and recreation — it provides an opportunity to slow down and experience the natural beauty of Iowa’s countryside.
Next time you ride the trail, take a moment to look beyond the pavement. You may discover that some of the best parts of the RRVT are the wild things living just beyond the edge of the trail.
