Heart of Iowa Nature Trail

Hunting at Heart of Iowa Nature Trail

We will be temporarily closing the Heart of Iowa Nature Trail between 560th Avenue  (just east of Huxley) and the South Skunk River bridge (just east of Cambridge) for Phase 2 of the paving project. We hope to be finished by mid-September. 

Sections of the trail in Story County are open to hunting and trapping.  These areas are from 560th Ave. to 580th Ave., from 597th Ave. to 640th Ave., and from 663rd Ave. to 680th Ave.  The miles of trail adjacent to a city boundary are closed to hunting and trapping.  All sections of the trail from 680th Ave. eastward are closed.  This includes all sections of the trail in Marshall County. No target shooting is allowed.  Please obey the signs posted at intersections and respect the rights of all users. Only non-toxic ammunition is allowed.

All state hunting laws apply.  Hunters must possess  the proper license(s).  Please remember to get permission when hunting within 200 yards of any occupied building, even when hunting on public land.  For a complete listing of all state hunting regulations, visit www. iowadnr.gov or contact the IDNR in Des Moines at 515-281-5918.  

Pets must be on leashes at all times.  Pets shall be deemed as running at large unless the owner carries such animal or leads it by a leash or chain not exceeding six feet in length, or keeps it confined in or attached to a vehicle. Hunting dogs are permitted in designated hunting areas for training, exercise, or hunting, but must be kept on leashes from March 15 to July 15 to protect nesting birds and must be kept under control at all times.