The fall colors are all around Iowa now, everywhere you look. They can transform even a humble street corner into a kaleidoscope of orange, red, and yellow. But if you want to see them at their best, head to one of the state’s many beautiful parks. The only thing is…a lot of other people might have that same idea! Fortunately, one county park a short drive from Cedar Rapids has a beautiful bike trail that gives you a stunning view you might just have all to yourself. Take a day trip and explore Pinicon Ridge Park near Central City, and you’ll agree that this is the best fall foliage bike ride in Iowa.
Pinicon Ridge Park might only be a county park and a fraction of the size of other Iowa parks, but it’s a must-see destination in the fall.
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You’ll find a number of charming hiking trails around the park, giving you a closer look at the forest.
Michael McClure/AllTrails
The trails are usually easy to navigate, although you should bring some good hiking boots for uneven terrain.
Keri Petty/AllTrails
There are few places more peaceful than under the fall foliage canopy in the forest in this park.
Y Jonas/AllTrails
But there’s one place even better in this park - at the park’s signature bike bridge, which offers the most amazing view in the park.
Pinicon Ridge Park/Facebook
The bike trail isn’t the longest, but it takes you over the Wapsipinicon River for a stunning view of the fall forest landscape.
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You can also get closer to the water when you’re done biking for recreation in the river.
Kris Philippe/AllTrails
If you’re looking to have lunch, there’s a large shaded picnic area that makes for the perfect place to relax and recharge.
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If you want to spend more than one day at the park or get an early start the next day, some old-fashioned cabins are available for rent.
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Sleeping up to eight people, these fully-furnished cabins are a unique place for a night’s rest this fall - and then you get to see the sunrise over the golden leaves.
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Have you taken the ride on the bike trail at Pinicon Ridge Park? Let us know your favorite fall foliage bike ride in Iowa in the comments section. If you’re interested in exploring for yourself, pay a visit to the official county website before you go. If you’re looking for another place to enjoy the fall colors, why not take this relaxing river cruise?
TravelIowa
Michael McClure/AllTrails
Keri Petty/AllTrails
Y Jonas/AllTrails
Pinicon Ridge Park/Facebook
Kris Philippe/AllTrails
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Address: Pinicon Ridge Park, 4729 Horseshoe Falls Rd, Central City, IA 52214, USA
