A tranquil trail that loops through the bluff country around Decorah, Iowa and it’s a wonderful place for a long stroll or bike ride. The 11-mile Trout Run Trail crosses trout streams five times as it winds around the city. The trail will take you near Luther College, past the downtown shopping and dining district and through some challenging switchbacks. But you’ll have to look up to see the most remarkable sight on the Trout Run Trail. The trail passes a huge eagle’s nest, making this a route you simply have to experience.
The Trout Run Trail will take you through some beautiful countryside. The trail is so tranquil and secluded, at times you may forget you are so close to Decorah.
Alltrails / Brita Nelson
The trail has some challenging hills - note the warning sign in this photo! Ancient glaciers flattened much of the upper Midwest but they missed this place - it’s called the Driftless Area.
Alltrails / Kristen Beck
You’ll pass an Iowa DNR trout hatchery as well as three beautiful public art pieces on the trail. They are located at Dug Road, just south of Highway 9 and at the trout hatchery.
Alltrails / Douglas Larson
Keep an eagle eye out for a big nest near the trail. You’ll see it near a scenic spillway called Siewers Spring that is adjacent to the hatchery.
Alltrails / Brad Utterback
The nest is huge - it’s six feet across, weighs 750 pounds and holds two adult eagles and their little eaglets. The eagle’s nest has a big following, thanks to a local webcam.
Alltrails / Maureen Honzik Michel
While the nest is an amazing sight, it’s important to keep a good distance from the eagles.
Alltrails / Brad Utterback
Alltrails / Brita Nelson
Alltrails / Kristen Beck
Alltrails / Douglas Larson
Alltrails / Brad Utterback
Alltrails / Maureen Honzik Michel
You’ll find the trailhead in the heart of Decorah. It’s just a couple of blocks from the Decorah Visitor Center, a place that has lots of helpful information about the trail and other things to do in town. Looking for more places to hike and ride? Here are some trails to put on your list.
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Address: Trout Run Trail, Decorah, IA 52101, USA
