There are few things better than a good hike, but it can be harder and harder every year to find a place to hike where you won’t be surrounded by other adventurers. Many of Iowa’s best hikes are increasingly popular – but there are still some hidden gems out there! That’s the case for the Shell Rock River Greenbelt Trail in the small town of Nora Springs. Located in a nature preserve, it’s a 13.1-mile out-and-back trail that’s considered an easy route with even terrain. However, it’s known for one thing in particular – it’s one of the only places you can hike to a covered bridge in Iowa. Most of Iowa’s covered bridges are meant for car traffic, so this is a great opportunity to see one of these famous Iowa landmarks on foot!

Shell Rock River Greenbelt Trail is a hidden gem in the middle of a small nature preserve in Cerro Gordo County.
Jake Shields/AllTrails
This 13-mile out-and-back trail is mostly on even ground, and while it's an intensive hike, it can be done by those with any level of experience.
KB/AllTrails
Along the way, you'll find beautiful waterfronts and other peaceful spots for relaxing or having a picnic.
Renner Anderson/AllTrails
Depending on the season, gorgeous wildflowers might be in bloom.
KB/AllTrails

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The trail is open year-round, and it is a great place to see fall foliage.
KB/AllTrails
However, along the way you'll also see one of the most impressive sights on the hiking trail.
Renner Anderson/AllTrails
An old-school covered bridge, designed for pedestrian traffic!
Renner Anderson/AllTrails
It's one of the only chances in Iowa to walk through a covered bridge and see the historic construction up-close, without a car.
Nick Kmoch/AllTrails

Have you taken the Shell Rock River Greenbelt Trail in Nora Springs? Tell us what it was like to hike to a covered bridge in Iowa in the comments section! You can learn more about the area and the preserve on the official Cerro Gordo County website. For another hidden gem hike in Iowa, check out the ancient secrets of Starr’s Cave Nature Center.

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Shell Rock River Greenbelt Trail, Iowa 50458, USA