Raccoon River Valley Trail
Winter Activities at Raccoon River Valley Trail
The Raccoon River Valley Trail is an 89 mile paved multi use recreational trail - great for walking, running, roller blading, skate boarding, cross country skiing, snow shoeing, and snowmobiling where allowed when conditions permit.
Locations
Length
The 89 mile RRVT includes a 71 mile loop that passes through the towns of Waukee, Adel, Redfield, Linden, Panora, Yale, Herndon, Jamaica, Dawson, Perry, Minburn and Dallas Center.
Most segments of the trail average 6 miles between towns. A 12 mile north extension runs from Herndon, through Cooper and up to Jefferson.
Another 5 mile leg connects Waukee to Clive and the Greenbelt Trail. .
Surface: Asphalt and Concrete
Grade: The Raccoon River Valley Trail is mostly flat, with only 1% to 2% grade.
Hours
The RRVT is open for snowmobiling from the parking lot in Waukee all the way to Jefferson on the south route. On the North route it is also open for snowmobiling from the Waukee parking lot to Dallas Center but the city of Dallas Center does not allow snowmobiles to go through the city on the trail. The city of Minburn does allow snowmobiles, the city of Perry does not allow snowmobiles (but has an alternate route marked), the city of Dawson does allow snowmobiles, the city of Jamaica does allow snowmobiles. Here are the rules regarding snowmobiling on the RRVT, the rules apply to Guthrie and Greene counties also:
1) There must be 4” of snow cover on the trail before snowmobiles can use the trail.
2) Snowmobiles must remain on the hard surface trail within the county owned right-of way and respect no trespassing wishes of adjacent landowners.
3) Snowmobile users are subject to the RRVT user permit requirements - $2 per day or $10 per year for each user 18 years and older.
4) No studs are allowed on the snowmobile track on snowmobiles that use the RRVT.
5) The Dallas County Conservation Board reserves the right to modify, alter, or repeal the provisions of this policy at any time.
Fees
A permit is required by anyone 18 years and older.
Permit envelopes are available in the yellow tube located at each trailhead on the trail or you may purchase one through the mail by sending a check to:
Dallas County Conservation Board
14581 K Ave.
Perry, Iowa 50220
Daily permit: $2.00 per trail user.
Annual permit: $10.00 per calendar year.