Facts and Features of the Raccoon River Valley Trail

Raccoon River Valley Trail users will find many new and historic features along the trail as they travel its length.

The Raccoon River Valley Trail is a 57 mile long htmlhalt surfaced multi-use recreational trail.  A permit is required to use the trail for anyone 18 years old and older.  A permit is not required for anyone using the trail within the city limits of towns it passes through.  A daily permit costs $2.00 per trail user, and an annual permit costs $10.00 per year. Permits may be purchased through the mail, at the administrative office at Forest Park, or on the trail. 

There are several access points to the trail in Dallas County.  There is a parking lot on both sides of county road R-22 in Waukee.  Another parking area can be found at the trail junction with county road R-16.  There is a trail parking lot in Adel on 18th. St..  Redfield has a parking area at the Redfield Depot.  The Redfield Depot also serves as a concession area and features a small museum exhibiting railroad related artifacts.

The Raccoon River Valley Trail highlights some of the history and natural features in the area.  The trail passes through what used to be the town of Ortonville which was the winter  housing site for the Orton Circus.  In Adel, a side trip from the trail offers views of the historic French Tudor Court House and the brick streets.  Throughout its route, the trail provides glimpses of Dallas county before settlement in the form of native prairie patches within the corridor.  the trail also crosses the North Raccoon River in Adel and travels along the Middle Raccoon River just north of Redfield.  There are several interpretive signs place along the trail to explain natural and historic sites.