Pedaling Through the Heartland: Discover Iowa’s Best Backroads by Bicycle

In the land where cornfields stretch to kiss the horizon and rivers carve their way through rolling hills, Iowa offers a tapestry of backroads that beg to be explored on two wheels. Here, amidst the whispering prairies and quaint towns, you’ll find not just new corners of your soul but also an intimate connection with America’s heartland.

1. The Driftless Area A Geological Marvel

Start your journey in Northeast Iowa's Driftless Area, untouched by glaciers and carved into rugged beauty over millennia. Begin in Decorah (Water Street, Decorah, IA 52101), a town that feels like it was plucked from a Norman Rockwell painting.

Ride along Bluffton Road towards Bluffton (Bluffton Road & County W14). This route will take you past limestone bluffs and verdant valleys—a landscape so picturesque it could inspire another "Field of Dreams." As you pedal through this region, consider stopping at Seed Savers Exchange Heritage Farm (3094 North Winn Road) for heirloom seeds or simply to marvel at biodiversity preserved in its purest form.

2. Loess Hills Scenic Byway Nature’s Masterpiece

Head westward to explore the Loess Hills Scenic Byway starting near Council Bluffs (Council Bluffs Visitor Center: 149 W Broadway St., Council Bluffs, IA 51503). These unique formations are akin to something out of Tolkien's Middle-earth—steep ridges formed from windblown silt during the last Ice Age.

Take Old Lincoln Highway northwards toward Pisgah (Old Lincoln Hwy & Main St., Pisgah, IA 51564). The ride is challenging but rewarding; each hill conquered reveals panoramic views that seem almost otherworldly. Stop at Preparation Canyon State Park for some quiet reflection among ancient oaks before continuing your journey.

3. Raccoon River Valley Trail A Modern Classic

For those who prefer paved paths without sacrificing charm or challenge—the Raccoon River Valley Trail awaits. Start in Jefferson (E Lincoln Way & N Elm St., Jefferson, IA 50129), home to one of Grant Wood's iconic murals depicting rural life with all its simplicity and grace.

Follow this trail southward through Perry (Railroad Street), where you'll encounter historic railroad depots turned charming cafes perfect for refueling both body and spirit alike—think Hemingway sipping espresso while penning his next great work under Midwestern skies instead Parisian ones!

4. Cedar Valley Nature Trail Bridging Past And Present

Begin your exploration at Evansdale's Gateway Park entrance point off Gilbert Drive leading onto Cedar Valley Nature Trail stretching between Waterloo-Cedar Rapids corridor offering seamless blend urban-rural experiences unlike any other place within state borders! Traverse former railway lines now converted smooth cycling paths winding alongside scenic waterways lush woodlands teeming wildlife flora fauna galore reminiscent Thoreau Walden Pond musings albeit transplanted Midwest setting rather than New England wildernesses he cherished dearly...

Stop midway Vinton downtown area featuring beautifully restored Benton County Courthouse square bustling local shops eateries embodying quintessential small-town ethos hardworking generous humble progressive innovative nature defining Iowan identity since time immemorial...

Conclusion:

Iowa may not boast towering peaks or vast deserts but therein lies its true allure—it invites travelers slow down savor moments often overlooked midst hustle bustle modern existence reconnect simpler times values enduring worth rediscover forgotten aspects themselves anew every turn wheel crank pedal stroke taken upon these storied roads less traveled... So grab bike helmet sense adventure set forth uncover hidden gems awaiting discovery across Hawkeye State today tomorrow always forevermore...

**Websites:**

- [Decorah](https://www.decorahia.org)

- [Loess Hills National Scenic Byway](http://www.loesshillsbyway.org)

- [Raccoon River Valley Trail](https://raccoonrivervalleytrail.org)

- [Cedar Valley Nature Trail](https://www.mycountyparks.com/county/Black-Hawk/Park/Cedar-Valley-Nature-Trail.aspx)

**Twitter Handles:**

- @Travel_Iowa

- @SeedSavers

- @VisitCouncilIA