DEPARTMENTS
LAKE MEYER
Events/Environmental Education
Land and Water Recreational Trails
Prairie Farmer Recreational Trail
The Prairie Farmer Trail stretches from Calmar to Cresco and passes through Ridgeway. The total length is 20 miles and is an asphalt surface. The trail can be accessed from any of the three towns, at the Winneshiek/Howard county line, or at any road crossing along the trail. (Please do not block trail crossings with your vehicle.) Bicyclist, joggers, hikers, and cross country skiers are all welcome to use the trail.
Much of the trail is constructed on the abandoned Milwaukee Road Railroad Line. The Prairie Farmer Trail is a joint project between Winneshiek and Howard Counties. (Map shown at bottom of page.)
Please note: THIS TRAIL IS CURRENTLY CLOSED. Paving and shouldering is mostly completed, but signs and warning strips still need to be added. Tentatively the trail is set to open by October 1. Check back for updates. Thank you!
Trout Run Trail
The Trout Run Trail is a 12-mile, paved loop that will encircle much of Decorah. Sections of this trail are currently under construction with plans for the last sections to be completed in 2009. Many sections are already open and available for use by bikers, hikers, joggers, and cross country skiers. The scenic trail winds through Decorah and the surrounding area following some of the dikes, abandoned rail beds, abandoned roadbeds, current trails, and private farmlands.
The Trout Run Trail is a joint project between Winneshiek County and the City of Decorah. For more information on this trail or to view a larger version of map shown below, please visit the following website: http://www.decoraharea.com/contentdisplay2.asp?id=troutruntrail
Winneshiek County Conservation Board
2546 Lake Meyer Road
Fort Atkinson, IA 52144
(phone) 563-534-7145
(fax) 563-534-7144
www.winneshiekwild.com
Upper Iowa River Water Trail
The Upper Iowa River is a popular destination for anyone looking for an enjoyable and relaxing day on the water. Canoes, kayaks, and tubes (and fishing poles!) are all great ways to relax and enjoy the scenery of the Upper Iowa. The river flows through Howard, Winneshiek, and Allamakee counties in Iowa before it reaches the Mississippi River.
We are currently working on a project to place signs along the river to guide you along your trip. Look for this exciting addition during the summer of 2008.
The Upper Iowa River is easily accessible at four of your Winneshiek County Parks: Kendallville Park and Campground, Chimney Rock Park, Chattahoochie Park, and Trout Run Park.
To see of list of access points and view a printable map of the Upper Iowa River, please visit the following site: http://www.desmoinesriver.org/canoeguide/upperia.pdf
To see a list of canoe outfitters and campgrounds, please view the following site and select "Boating/Canoeing" under the "Winneshiek Recreation" heading: http://visitiowa.org/wc_recreation.html
To check on the river level, visit: http://www.crh.noaa.gov/ahps2/hydrograph.php?wfo=arx&gage=dehi4&view=1,1,1,1,1,1&toggles=10,7,8,2,9,15,6
