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Big Woods Trail Loop


Big Woods Trail Loop
The 8.3 mile loop near downtown Cedar Falls travels around Big Woods Lake and continues to Black Hawk Park.

This easy to moderate level ride offers a scenic ride through prairie restoration areas, open spaces, residential areas, and along forested banks of the Cedar River. Starting from Big Woods Lake (or alternatively Gateway Park), the route follows Big Woods Road to a trail looping the lake, then continues north and west on the Lone Tree Road Trail to Black Hawk Park. From there, riders follow the Cedar Valley Lakes Trail southeast along the river through the Cottage Row neighborhood to Island Park, before crossing back through downtown Cedar Falls. Make sure to reward yourself with a stop at Cedar City Creamery—recognized by USA TODAY as one of the nation’s top 10 independent ice cream shops.


Where to Park

Big Woods Lake - 1228 Big Woods Road

Big Woods Lake - Big Woods Road and E. Lake Street.

Gateway Park - Lincoln and Main streets downtown Cedar Falls

In the Area

Island Park Disc Golf Course

Island Park 9-Hole Disc Golf Course in Cedar Falls offers a fun, compact round in a scenic park setting, making it a great casual stop for players of all skill levels.

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Island Park Beach House

Island Park Beach House is a scenic gathering space overlooking the Cedar River with event rentals, recreation access, and park views.

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Hampton Inn

Hampton Inn offers modern downtown accommodations with walkable access to restaurants, trails, breweries, shops and entertainment.

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The Black Hawk Hotel

The Black Hawk Hotel is a historic boutique hotel in downtown Cedar Falls offering unique accommodations, local character, and walkable access to shops, dining, and entertainment.

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Behrens-Rapp Filling Station & Visitor Information

This authentic 1925 filling station serves as an information center for visitors to the Cedar Falls/Waterloo area. Open May through October

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Black Hawk Park

Black Hawk Park is a large outdoor recreation area near Cedar Falls offering camping, hiking, boating, fishing, and scenic riverfront views along the Cedar River.

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Downtown Cedar Falls

Walkable area with local shops, restaurants, breweries, entertainment, trails, and riverfront charm.

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Ice House Museum

This circular structure built in 1921 once housed a flourishing ice business and now displays ice harvest equipment and photos on ice farming operations.

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Oster Regent Theatre

The Oster Regent Theatre is a historic downtown Cedar Falls venue hosting movies, concerts, live performances, and community events in a restored classic theater setting.

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Gateway River Park

Gateway River Park offers river surfing, whitewater recreation, trails, fishing, and outdoor gathering spaces along the Cedar River.

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Uncle Harry's 5 & Dime Tavern

Uncle Harry's 5 & Dime Tavern is a downtown Cedar Falls bar known for craft cocktails, local character, and a cozy atmosphere inspired by a vintage neighborhood tavern.

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SingleSpeed Brewing

SingleSpeed Brewing is a popular Cedar Falls brewery and restaurant serving craft beer, wood-fired pizzas, and a lively gathering space near downtown and the trails.

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McDonald's - North Cedar Falls

McDonald's North serves burgers, fries, breakfast favorites, coffee, and quick meals with convenient eat-in and drive-thru service.

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Los Cabos Family Mexican Restaurant

Los Cabos Family Mexican Restaurant serves authentic Mexican dishes, margaritas, and family-friendly dining.

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Cup of Joe

Cup of Joe is a cozy coffee shop serving espresso drinks, coffee, pastries, and casual cafe favorites in a welcoming atmosphere.

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Landmark

Landmark is a neighborhood bar and grill known for drinks, casual dining, and a relaxed vibe.

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Cedar City Creamery

Cedar City Creamery serves ice cream, frozen treats, and sweet desserts in Cedar Falls.

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Tata Yaya

Tata Yaya serves sweet and savory crepes, coffee, and specialty drinks.

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Scooter's Coffee

Scooter's Coffee serves coffee, espresso drinks, smoothies, pastries, and quick breakfast favorites.

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Big Woods Lake Campground & Recreation Area

Big Woods Lake Campground & Recreation Area offers camping, trails, paddling, fishing, and outdoor recreation in a peaceful natural setting in Cedar Falls.

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