Wabash Trail: Uncovering Hidden Gems Along the Path in 2024
Southwest Iowa is home to a 63-mile walking trail.
Ever heard of it?
It’s called the Wabash Trail.

It originally was a railroad right-of-way, but now this trail offers a unique glimpse of wide-open farm fields, woods, and charming small towns.
Whether you’re a seasoned biker or a casual walker, the Wabash Trail provides a perfect escape into nature.
The trail runs from Council Bluffs to Blanchard Iowa, you can jump on the trail in numerous places and walk as long as you want.
History of Wabash Trail
The neat thing about this is it is more than a pathway; it’s got a lot of history to it, many people still today spend a lot of time making this their community project, and it’s got a lot of natural wonder.
As you walk or bike this trail, you’ll not only walk through scenic landscapes but also through part of Iowa’s rich heritage.
From Railroads to Nature Trails
Long before railroad too place, parts of what is now the Wabash Trail once was the historic routes of people like Lewis & Clark’s Discovery Trail and the Mormon Trail.

The trail itself follows a former section of the famous Wabash Railway’s main line, originally constructed in the 1870s by the Council Bluffs and St. Louis Railway.
So, this trail follows where the rails for the railroad once was.
How the Wabash Trace Nature Trail Started
In 1988, the Southwest Iowa Nature Trails Project, Inc. (SWINT), with the help of the Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation (INHF) and volunteers, railbanked the right-of-way.
Railbanking is when old, unused railroad tracks are saved and turned into trails for walking, biking, and other activities.
Instead of tearing down the tracks completely, they are kept in case they are needed again for trains in the future.
This way, the land stays useful and people can enjoy it in the meantime.

In 1999, this railway was transformed into the Wabash Trace Nature Trail, offering a crushed limestone path with some sections of concrete and asphalt through towns like Silver City, Malvern, and Shenandoah, Iowa.
Where to see the Railroad’s History Along the Trail
There are many reminders of the railway that took place along the Wabash Trail.
The original Wabash Depot in Shenandoah has been restored and now sits in Sportsman’s Park. It is actually listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Other depots have found new life.
The downtown Shenandoah depot has become a restaurant, while the Malvern Trailhead depot has been converted into a bunkhouse.
What You Will See Along the Wabash Trail.
Wabash Trail, stretching over 63 miles in southwest Iowa, offering a perfect trail to spend your afternoon.

This trail passes through towns such as
- Council Bluffs (Population 62,000)
- Mineola (Population 160)
- Silver City (Population 245)
- Malvern (Population 1,000)
- Imogene (Population 45)
- Shenandoah (Population 5,000)
- Coin (Population 190)
- Blanchard (Population 35)
You’ll also see something unique, the trail winds through the Loess Hills, which are hills created by windblown soil about 14,000 years ago.
Fun Fact: these hills are rare and found only here and in Northern China.
Wabash Trail
This trail is open all year long and for the most part is well taken care of.
But if you’re planning your visit to the Wabash Trail, spring and fall are the best seasons to explore the trail, due to better weather conditions with mild temperatures.

During these months, you will get to witness the beauty of nature as flowers bloom or leaves change colors, brightening your overall walk.
Summer can be hot, while winter may bring snow and icy conditions.
So, it is open all year long, but there are definitely better times to walk the trails.
If you plan on starting at Blanchard, there actually is not a place to park.
But just up the road a bit is Coin, Iowa and there is a place to park there.
A friend and I actually tried to park at Blanchard and ended up parking long the side of the road, that’s always an option too.

It was a short walk because of the snow. 🥶
It was in April…😂 Snow definitely wasn’t in our plans, but that can easily happen in the Midwest.
One of my favorite things about this trail is the bridges. In the 63-mile trail, there is 72 bridges.
Just last week our family headed up to Wabash Trail to take our bikes and we stopped at every bridge while riding to watch the water flow underneath us.

Another favorite of mine might be the way the trees make a tunnel themselves. It makes it so peaceful and a beautiful part of being outside.

Anytime we go, we try to start somewhere new to experience along this 63-mile trail!
We love to find hidden gems like this guy finding this place to stop and relax.
Check out the Wabash Trace Nature Trail website or their Facebook page for events along the Wabash Trail.
They have several fundraisers and events throughout the year. For an example, on “National Trails Day” which is the first Saturday in June each year, they have the “Wabash Warm-Up!” This takes place on a section of a trail and at each bridge is a band playing as you travel through!

Wabash Trail is a hidden gem of historical significance and natural beauty.
This trail offers a wonderful way to explore the countryside, passing through charming towns and pretty landscapes.
Whether you’re biking, hiking, or enjoying a leisurely walk, the trail is perfect for all ages.
Experience the blend of history, nature, and community that makes Wabash Trail an unforgettable journey.


