Sugar Bottom Mountain Biking Trail System

If your pup is a fitness guru and you are looking for a mighty hike in the forests of Iowa, your search is over! Check out the Sugar Bottom Mountain Trails in the city of North Liberty for some outdoor fun!

This trail system is comprised of 17 different trails which are located in the Sugar Bottom Recreational Area. Pick up the trailhead after crossing the Mehaffey Bridge at the Sugar Bottom Day Use Area.  Here you will find restrooms and signage marking the trails. There are 5 easy trails, 6 intermediate trails and 6 difficult trails.

Everyone starts on the beginner trail and the more difficult paths branch off these. Don’t worry – these trails are clearly marked so you won’t get lost or confused! It is best to stick to the beginner trails with your pup in tow because the more advanced treks are multi-use, with mostly mountain bikers using them. The intermediate and difficult trails are suited for very athletic pups, but it is not advised to hike here as the bikers can be traveling at great speeds.

Please be advised to travel each trail in the one-way direction it specifies. The trails are either named or numbered with the 100 cluster of paths on the north side of the gravel access road and the 200’s to 300’s being on the south side. They run through mostly rugged, forested terrain, so mud, sticks and stones can be expected along your route.

Other amenities of the Sugar Bottom Recreational Area include camping, fishing and boating. Be sure to pack plenty of water and snacks for your hike as well.

Enjoy your day at Sugar Bottom! Your pup will have a great day traversing the lands of central eastern Iowa!