Fall is a great time to get outside and enjoy the outdoors. While the Quad Cities Area (QCA) is fairly limited when it comes to diverse landscapes, there is still lots of natural beauty to be discovered. Whether it is hiking, running, or biking, this list of trails provides a guide to the outdoor opportunities in the QCA.
Sunderbruch Park
Sunderbruch Park, located in west Davenport, is the premier location for all things outdoors. Boasting approximately 12 miles of single-track trail, the park has much to offer for mountain biking. The intricate trail system contains different trail ratings. Ranging from mellow flowy green trails to steep black-rated techy jump lines, there is something for any biker to enjoy. If you are not into biking, Sunderbruch also offers a 1.3-mile-long paved trail in the park.
Illiniwek Forest Preserve
Illiniwek Forest Preserve is a single-track trail system located in Illinois near the town of Hampton. Despite being in Illinois, Illiniwek is still accessible via I-80 to State Avenue. Featuring roughly 5 miles of diverse single-track trails, Illiniwek is a great spot for trail running and biking. The trails span a heavily wooded bluff with lots of altitude changes. The trail system has two loops, one of which features an amazing view of the Mississippi. Illiniwek is a great spot to observe the changing colors in fall.
Scott County Park
Scott County Park contains roughly 5 miles of single-track biking and hiking trails. The trail system is fairly mellow and lacks significant altitude change. Winding around the single-track trails are bridleways that allow for different options when hiking. Scott County Park is a great spot for hiking, biking, and the many other activities the park offers.
Sylvan Island
Situated in the Mississippi river between Rock Island and Davenport, Sylvan Island is a natural area located near multiple urban areas of the Quad Cities. The Island was previously home to a Republic Steel plant,abandoned in the 1950s. Since the factory’s closing, the entire island has returned to nature. Now the island features a little more than a mile of winding trails through the island. It is perfect for a short hike with views of the river and the naturalized factory remains.
Credit Island
Located further down the river than Sylvan Island, Credit Island features a 1.6 mile loop of trail around the island. The hiking trail features beautiful views of the river ecosystem, coupled with the natural beauty of the forest on the Island. This trail is great for people searching for a more leisurely walk.
