The Maquoketa River Water Trail, in Delaware County, will be dedicated as Iowa’s newest official water trail during a public ceremony at noon on June 16, at the gazebo next to the whitewater park, in downtown Manchester.
Covering 18 river miles, the Maquoketa River Water Trail begins at Backbone State Park, Iowa’s first state park, and ends at Bailey’s Ford Access. It’s the first water trail that includes a whitewater park and a large area of restored river above the Quaker Mill area.
The Maquoketa River Water Trail showcases limestone cliffs, mature oak forests, lowland forests and diverse wildlife. Some stretches provide a quiet, prehistoric feel among ancient rocks and forests. Trail users can slowly float, fish, enjoy a trip through a whitewater park and explore Iowa’s oldest state park.
The Maquoketa River can be a moderate paddling challenge on the upper reaches, where paddlers must negotiate riffles, small rapids and strainers.
The water trail dedication ceremony is part of Rhubarb on the River, an annual celebration held in Manchester. Come celebrate Iowa’s newest water trail, learn about kayak safety, listen to live music, take part in a bike ride, run a 5K race and enjoy a rhubarb brat.
With the addition of this water trail, Iowa now has 934 miles of state designated water trails.
The Maquoketa River Water Trail was completed through a partnership with the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, Delaware County Conservation and the City of Manchester.