Fairfield Loop Trail

The Fairfield Loop Trail forms a 16-mile ring around the town of Fairfield, mostly in the outlying areas of the countryside. The trail links two major preserves and connects city and county parks. Along the way you’ll pass through woodlands, meadows and prairie, and hilly sections.

Most of the trail surface is crushed stone, but there are about 2.5 miles total of concrete surface in four different locations. A 0.8-mile on-road segment follows Mint Boulevard (a gravel road) southward from Lamson Woods toward the trail section that parallels US 34. Other trails, such as the 7.5 miles in Jefferson County Park, connect to the Fairfield Loop Trail.

Access points for the trail include:

Whitham Woods
Cedar View Trail
Maasdam Barns
Mint Blvd Parking Lot
Lamson Woods
Neff Wetland
Chautauqua Park
Pleasant Lake
Bonnifield Lake

Downloadable JCTC TrailsMap

The most spectacular feature of the trail is the BNSF bridge over the railroad tracks near Walton Lake. The bridge features 171 ceramic tiles created by high school art students, which are inset into the bridge’s concrete curb. Many small bridges, some with artistic enhancements, cross brooks on the Fairfield Loop Trail.

Because the 15.9-mile-long Fairfield Loop Trail was built one segment at a time over 14 years, names were given to each segment. The segments are presented in a clockwise direction, starting with the DOT-South segment in the southern part of Fairfield, Iowa.

The Loop Trail officially begins (and ends) next to the Maasdam Barns at Mile Marker Zero. Mile Markers occur every 1/4 mile along the Loop Trail. The Maasdam Barns are next to the Jefferson County Health Center (at the interchange of Hwy 1 & US 34).

The DOT-South segment, built by the Iowa DOT, parallels the new US Hwy 34 bypass from Mint Blvd in the east to Whitham Woods in the west. This 5.7-mile segment is hilly, with curves and woods, and partly in wetlands. It intersects with the Cedar View Trail, which leads to Jefferson County Park. The Loop Trail officially begins (and ends) next to the Maasdam Barns at Mile Marker Zero. Mile Markers occur every 1/4 mile along the Loop Trail.

The Whitham Woods segment uses part of an old 1858-1901 railroad bed, then travels up and down hills through the woods, and then follows a concrete section along Burlington Ave to Brookville Road. The trail within Whitham Woods was upgraded in September 2010.

The Northwestern segment travels northeasterly from Brookville Road to Grimes Ave and Dexter Soccer Park, then crosses the BNSF railroad track through a pedestrian maze (for safety) and continues to the Rock Island Railroad segment at 8th & Gear. Most of the surface is concrete.

The Rock Island Railroad segment uses the roadbed of the Rock Island Railroad, which was in use from 1945 to 1980 (replacing a 1871 alignment). Our trail bridge replaces the railroad bridge, which was removed in 1985.

The B Street segment travels along B Street on a concrete-surfaced sidewalk for 4/10ths of a mile to connect to the Lakes segment. The sidewalk continues southward to Waterworks Park and Stone Ave.

The Lakes segment connects three lakes, Bonnifield Lake, Pleasant Lake, and Walton Lake, with a trail that meanders along fields and through wooded areas. These lakes are retired reservoirs, being converted for recreational usage.

Leaving Walton Lake, the Louden Bridge segment travels through woods, then crosses the BNSF Railroad tracks on the 246-foot Louden Bridge to connect with Chautauqua Park, where it meets the Crow Creek segment. The Louden Bridge displays 171 ceramic plaques of images from old Louden Machinery Company blueprints, made by a Fairfield High School art class.

The Crow Creek segment follows Crow Creek from Chautauqua Park to the Neff Wetlands. A concrete-surfaced section connects to a crushed limestone surface in a wooded low-land, where three bridges cross creeks in the Fry property.

The Neff Wetlands section of the Loop Trail begins as you cross Glasgow Road from the Crow Creek segment, heading west across the wetlands dike. The Lamson Woods boardwalk/bridge then takes you the parking lot at Mint Blvd. A walking-only trail joins the boardwalk near the creek. Lamson Woods is a State Preserve.

The Mint Blvd Link connects the Lamson Woods-Neff segment to the DOT-South segment, using Mint Blvd, the only shared-road section of the Loop Trail. Part of Mint Blvd is steep, with a gravel surface. Improvements may be made in the future.

Download a trail map JCTC TrailsMap

Main Location

Fairfield, IA 52556

Website

Water Trails

Ditch the city traffic and dive into Fairfield’s water trails for a rush hour like no other. Whether you’re in a kayak, boat, or fishing, the only sounds you’ll hear are the peaceful splashes of paddles, the songs of birds, and the rustling leaves. It’s time to slow down, reconnect with nature, and bask in the beauty that surrounds us. Why rush through life with blinders on when we can open our eyes to the wonders of the water trails?
During the summer months the retired water reservoirs in Fairfield are refreshing places to go cool off and enjoy the lush greenery and to kayak, canoe, swim and fish. Or try the Cedar Creek Water Trail which uses a 6- mile scenic section of Cedar Creek, or the 72-mile Skunk River Water Trail which passes through Keokuk, Washington, Jefferson, and Henry counties.

Click here for an interactive paddling map of the area

At present, there are two designated water trails in Jefferson County:

Skunk River Water Trail

The real beauty of the Skunk River can be enjoyed by navigating the river in a boat, canoe or kayak. The 72-mile Water Trail traverses Keokuk, Washington, Jefferson, and Henry counties. The river provides excellent fishing, so bring your fishing pole and bait! The Jefferson County section is 10.5 miles long and can be accessed at the Coppock Access boat ramp. To exit from the beautiful river use the MacCoon Access boat ramp. Remember that the river should be enjoyed with respect and caution. After heavy rains, the river can rise rapidly and cause strong currents/floating debris.

The Cedar Creek Water Trail

This six-mile water trail is in the scenic section of Cedar Creek and has a different feel than the other larger rivers typically seen in southern Iowa. The limestone outcroppings and narrow channel create an intimate feel. This slow-moving creek does require paddling if you would like to make good time. Put your canoe or kayak into Cedar Creek at the Turkey Run Wildlife Area and take out at Round Prairie Park, about 6 miles downstream. Be ready for a beautiful and exciting trip downstream!

Fairfield City Lakes

The City of Fairfield and the Park & Recreation department are transforming the three city water reservoirs into water recreation areas, since the reservoirs were set aside as emergency sources of city water in 2005.
Pleasant Lake
This stunning oasis is the perfect destination for water enthusiasts. With breathtaking prairie lands and woodlands embracing the lake, you’ll have a picturesque backdrop as you kayak, canoe, or fish. Need more? We’ve got you covered with a convenient boat ramp and easy access to the renowned Fairfield loop trail. Get ready for an unforgettable aquatic adventure at Pleasant Lake!

Bonnifield Lake
Bonnifield Lake is the perfect water escape. Swim, kayak, fish, and hike to your heart’s content in this idyllic spot. Follow the serene slopes of the Jefferson County Loop Trail, leading you straight to the tranquil waves of Bonnifield Lake. Spend a blissful day surrounded by nature’s beauty. For a more adventurous experience, bring along a canoe or kayak and explore the picturesque waters. Don’t forget your fishing rod, as the peaceful lake is perfect for testing your angling skills and reeling in some catfish. Discover the history of Bonnifield Lake as you come across the oldest two-story cabin in Iowa, the Bonnifield cabin, nestled within the park.

Suggestions on what to take on a float trip:

Extra paddle
First aid kit
Personal floatation device
A secure place for car keys
Food and water
Sunscreen
Insect repellent
Water shoes or supportive old shoes
Extra clothing
A fun attitutde that is ready for a great day!

Main Location

Website

Lamson Woods State Preserve

Lamson Woods State Preserve – SE corner of Fairfield Golf Club.

Gorgeous, rustic wooded trails and ponds (no swimming). Connects to the Fairfield Loop Trail.

Lamson Woods is a 43-acre woodland preserve located on the southeast edge of Fairfield. This hilly, wooded area was willed to the city of Fairfield by Carrie Lamson Ross in 18930. Originally “Lamson’s Pasture” was a park that included Fairfield’s first golf course. The golf course was in a pasture for cows and pigs along a small woodland, and was dubbed “cow-pasture golf”. It was a favorite area for hiking and nature study for people of all ages. The woodland was dedicated as a biological state preserve in 1978.

The preserve is a mixture of upland and lowland forest. Mesic and dry woodland species occupy the slope and ravines that are cut into Pre-Illinoian glacial deposits (500,000 to 2.5 million years old) typical of the Southern Iowa Drift Plain landform region. Trees occupying the canopy include cottonwood, white oak, bur oak, shingle oak, shagbark hickory, American elm, hackberry, and black cherry. Ohio buckeye can be found in the understory with hazelnut along the woodland edges. A planted pine grove is located in the southwest corner of the preserve.

The Lamson Woods/Neff Wetlands section of the Loop Trail begins at Glasgow Road and heads west across the wetlands dike. The Lamson Woods boardwalk/bridge takes you to the Mint Blvd parking lot. A walking-only trail is accessed from the boardwalk.

The spring wildflower display begins with the blooming of bloodroot, bluebells, and spring beauty, followed by prairie trillium, tooth wort, white trout-lily, blue phlox, wild geranium, mayapple, Solomon’s seal, swamp buttercup, and wild hyacinth. By May, moonseed and Jacob’s ladder can be seen in flower followed by jumpseed and pale touch-me-not in July. August brings the blooming of hog peanut (a popular plant with birds and hogs) among the sensitive dren and maidenhair fern fronds. In the fall, the bright red leaves of Virginia creeper can be seen crawling up the trunks of trees or along the ground.

Main Location

Mint Blvd
Fairfield, IA 52556

Website

Waterworks Park

Waterworks Park – North B Street.

If you’re a family looking for a fun and exciting day out, Waterworks Park is the perfect destination. With its beautiful natural surroundings, there’s plenty to explore and discover. Take a refreshing dip in the lake, or take a leisurely stroll along the Fairfield Loop trail, which winds through the park and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

If you’re feeling adventurous, try your luck at fishing in the park’s well-stocked lake, or challenge yourself to a kayaking excursion in the summer months. And when the colder weather arrives, grab your ice skates and hit the ice for a game of hockey with your friends and loved ones.

Waterworks Park also has a shelter area that’s perfect for hosting family picnics, class reunions, and other group events.

Waterworks Park is not only a great place for outdoor fun and adventure, but it is also home to the Bonnifield cabin, the oldest two-story cabin in Iowa. This historic structure offers a glimpse into the past and is a great opportunity to learn more about the area’s rich history. While you can’t tour the inside of the cabin, the exterior is still worth a visit, as it provides a close-up view of the craftsmanship and attention to detail that went into its construction.

So whether you’re looking to relax and enjoy the scenery, or get your adrenaline pumping with some outdoor activities, add Waterworks Park to your Fairfield itinerary.

To book the park for an event, call 641-472-6159 or visit the Roosevelt Recreation Complex during open hours.
Amenities

Bonnifield Lake

Bonnifield Lake is the perfect spot for swimming, kayaking, fishing, and hiking with friends and family! The tranquil slopes of the Jefferson County Loop Trail lead right to the peaceful waves of Bonnifield Lake and will leave you thinking you could spend the day enjoying the great outdoors. Not only can you swim in the lake, we highly recommend bringing a canoe or kayak for further exploration.

Pleasant Lake

Visit Pleasant Lake to reel in a fish while enjoying the picturesque scenery. Want to enjoy some sunshine? Venture over to the gazebo and bring along a picnic lunch with friends. If walking is more of your style, then the trails around Pleasant Lake are perfect for a breathtaking walk. This retired reservoir is now being developed for water recreation – so come on down and have blast! Pleasant Lake is located conveniently off of Pleasant Plain Road just north of Fairfield.

“I love this swimming spot! Sandy bottom! Great Park!”

“Good swimming hole”

“It’s a very nice place to swim and or have a family picnic”

Main Location

North B Street
Fairfield, IA 52556

Website

Chautauqua Park

One of our most full-featured parks. Playground areas, restrooms, shelter houses you can reserve, restrooms, picnicking, walking trail that links to the Fairfield Loop. Games: horseshoe courts, disc golf course.

The Chautauqua Complex comprises three interconnected areas – Chautauqua Park, the Community Orchard, and the Eastman Wetland. Chautauqua Park is a favorite among visitors who revel in its majestic trees, extensive playgrounds, and picnic areas that have served as a picturesque backdrop for countless memories. Families, couples, and friends alike relish its serene ambiance, perhaps engaging in a leisurely game of disc-golf or swinging away on the playground. The Fairfield Loop Trail, which provides access to extensive hiking opportunities, runs through the park and connects to the Community Orchard. Established in 2012 with support from Alliant Energy’s Hometown Rewards Program, the Orchard boasts a range of fruits, including American Persimmon, Chestnut, Mulberry, Asian and European Pears, and multiple varieties of Apples. During harvest season, visitors enjoy the opportunity to pick their own fruits. Beyond the Orchard lies the Eastman Wetland, a 24-acre mitigation site, with a restored wetland of 5 acres. Once farmland, the site now teems with abundant wildlife, including mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, crayfish, mussels, and insects that rely on the wetlands for feeding, nesting, and spawning. With endless possibilities for exploration, the Chautauqua Complex is truly a haven for nature enthusiasts.

Disc Golf Map Chautauqua Park Disc Golf Course Map

Main Location

Hwy. 34 East on E. Burlington Avenue.
Fairfield, IA 52556

Website

Jefferson County Park

Jefferson County Park is the largest multi-purposed outdoor recreational facility in Jefferson County. Established in 1977, the park currently encompasses 190 acres and includes a nature center, bike & hiking trails, campsites, cabins & picnic areas.

The 75-foot Swinging Bridge is a local favorite along with the quiet 24 site campground and the Picnic Area which has three reservable shelters. The campground is open from May through the end of October. The Jefferson County Conservation Office and Nature Center are also located in this park.

The park is connected to the Fairfield Loop Trail through the Cedar View Trail allowing campers to ride the 16-mile loop trail without driving to an access point.

If you are looking for a natural experience in a rustic environment, then consider renting one of the park’s 2 cabins. Each cabin holds 6 people and has all the amenities of home. If one wants to get even closer to nature and sleep underneath the beautiful Iowa starlit skies, the park offers 24 campsites. Each site comes with electricity, restrooms, and hot showers.

The park can accommodate large groups at each of their 3 picnic shelters. They are open every year from May 1 – October 31 and include electricity, flush type toilets, and drinking water. Close by the shelters are horseshoes, softball, and volleyball facilities. All are handicapped accessible.

Jefferson County Park has about 8-miles of trails, which connect to the Cedar View Trail (which makes a direct connection to the Fairfield Loop Trail), the Erma Hartman Trail, and the Prairie & Pond Trail.

Camping Site Season: Normally May 1 through October 31.

Main Location

2003 Libertyville Rd.
Fairfield, IA 52556

Website