Interactive Trail Map
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Waterloo Trails System
Waterloo is home to over 50 miles of paved trails and 1.5 miles of compacted aggregate surface trails.
Cedar Valley Trails Partnership
Detailed trail information, maps and trail loops can be found on the Cedar Valley Trails Partnership site. You can also sign up for trail alerts.
Rules of the Trail
We encourage everyone to safely enjoy the benefits of out metro trail system through their consideration of other trail users. So, weather you’re walking, biking or in-line skating, please observe all posted signs and:
Use your head – wear a helmet.
Go with the flow – stay to the right.
Stay clear of the trail when stopped.
Signal turns or stops; announce when passing. Show respect for adjacent property.
ENJOY YOUR TRAILS SAFELY
Riverloop Bike Trail
Running through the heart of the industrial area in Waterloo, this loop offers trail users a variety of recreational experiences all while enjoying spectacular views of the Cedar River. The entire trail runs 16+ miles, connecting the downtown areas of Cedar Falls and Waterloo, and three major river crossings allow you to shorten the loop to your preference.
Cedar Valley Nature Trail
This 52-mile multi-use trail connects the metro areas of Waterloo/Cedar Falls with Cedar Rapids and many smaller towns in between. It is used for biking, hiking, in-line skating, cross country skiing and nature study. Motorized vehicles and horses are not allowed on the trail. Surfaced with asphalt from Evansdale to McFarlane Park south of La Porte City (16.5 miles), and then compacted limestone, the trail follows the floodplain of the Cedar River through forested areas, wetlands and rolling farmlands, with tree tunnels punctuated by open vistas. A campground is located on the trail at McFarlane Park.
Trailheads
Waterloo has many trails that pass by parks and recreation areas with parking lots that can be used as trailheads. There are also two dedicated trail heads. One is located at the NE corner of Idaho & Martin Luther King Jr. Dr. and the newest one is located at the SW corner of University Ave. and Hwy 63.
Martin Luther King Jr. Dr Trailhead
University & 63 Trailhead
Water Trails
Black Hawk Creek Water Trail and the Cedar River Water Trail are used for kayaking, canoeing and tubing. See the Iowa DNR Website for maps and brochures