Plans + Progress
Welcome to the Iowa River’s Edge Trail (IRET) project, an ambitious initiative aiming to create a 34-mile paved pathway spanning seven communities across Hardin and Marshall Counties. At present, significant strides have been made with a 4.8-mile section already paved between Steamboat Rock and Eldora, alongside a portion within Marshalltown. Spearheaded by the Hardin County IRET Board, Trails, Inc. and the Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation, the project is actively engaged in fundraising, planning, and pursuing grants to pave the remaining segments of this scenic trail. Stay tuned as we continue to progress towards connecting communities and enhancing outdoor recreation opportunities in our region.
The trail is currently paved from Steamboat Rock to Eldora. The section from Eldora to Union is currently a gravel/rough-surface trail segment that is rideable for cyclists with wider tires, including gravel bikes and fat-tire bikes. Please note that several bridge crossings along this section are currently closed as bridges are being reconstructed. Trail users should plan accordingly and check current conditions before riding. Bids for paving the Eldora-to-Union segment are expected to be released soon, bringing the trail one step closer to a fully paved connection.
Milestones
2017 - Awarded $25,000 from Hardin County Community Endowment Fund (HCCEF) towards the Steamboat Rock bridge rehabilitation project.
2019 - Awarded $15,000 from HCCEF towards the Steamboat Rock bridge rehabilitation project.
2022 - Steamboat Rock bridge completed.
2023 - Awarded $15,000 from HCCEF towards the Eldora trailhead.
April 2024 - Awarded $2 million through Iowa TAP Grant Program for paving from Eldora to Gifford & South Fork Bridge reconstruction.
April 2024 - Ribbon cutting for the completion of the Eldora trailhead.
October 2024 - City of Eldora awarded REAP funding for expansion of the trail loop in Hardin County.
November 2024 - Awarded $745,000 through the Iowa DOT State Recreational Trails Program.
August 2025 - Steamboat Rock Public Library ribbon cutting for storybook walk.
Spring 2026 - South Fork Bridge demolition near Gifford.
Fall of 2026 - Bids for construction of trail from Eldora to Union!
