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Woodpecker Trail
4.7 ★★★★★ 237 Google reviews · Running trail in Iowa City, Iowa · Posted hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Natural surface
- Loop distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Loop
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Posted hours
Confirmed from Woodpecker Trail's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
Scenic hiking area featuring wooded trails along Coralville Lake and the Iowa River.
What runners say about Woodpecker Trail
“The trail is well kept but mostly dirt, and will have roots and rocks in places.”
“A very nice trail with great views of the lake and plenty of people.”
Lovely trail to walk. Two things I like about this trail are the trees, and several areas along the way that overlook the river.
Nice trial system on the south side of the Iowa river. The river is wide enough here that it looks like you are on lake Coralville. There are a bunch of connected trails here - we went in Woodpecker and Mushroom trails.
Great trail system for hiking/walking/ running with beautiful views. Plus from Linder point Fun Crest ice cream is across the road 😁
Beautiful walk! Even got to see mom and her baby deer! There is a lot of nice spots to stop and get an overlook of the lake.
Trail conditions & character
“A delightful stroll by Coralville Lake: gentle trails through shaded woods with bridges, overlooks, and fun trail features for kids.”
“The trail is well kept but mostly dirt, and will have roots and rocks in places.”
“The mix of elevation, bridges, and views make for an awesome run in nature that is so close to Iowa City.”
“You can take longer loop or shorter loop depending on your energy.”
“Perfect for a quick 1–2 km hike, with restrooms, picnic facilities, and access to longer trail networks.”
“The parking lot can be busy depending on day.”
“First half of hike smelled like dog feces from those who didn't clean up after their dogs, and those who then tracked it along the trail.”
Plan your run at Woodpecker Trail
The practical stuff
- AccessPosted hours — posted hours below; park gates sometimes close earlier than the listing says
- SurfaceNatural surface — easiest on the joints and the most fun, but expect roots, rocks and mud after rain
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadparking, restrooms, water — reported by runners
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
Hours
| Monday | 6 am–10 pm |
| Tuesday | 6 am–10 pm |
| Wednesday | 6 am–10 pm |
| Thursday | 6 am–10 pm |
| Friday | 6 am–10 pm |
| Saturday | 6 am–10 pm |
| Sunday | 6 am–10 pm |
Running trails near Iowa City
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