Iowa Confluence Water Trails — ICON, for short — will connect 80+ improvements across 150 miles of rivers and creeks in Central Iowa.
But just as important, it will reconnect us to the magic of water. ICON is a magnet for fun and family — a high-energy playground for kayaking, rafting and paddling throughout the region. It’s a sanctuary for spending time with nature, but also, with ourselves.
The trails represent a new commitment to water safety and conservation. A movement of dreamers and doers, collaborating to improve the quality of water — and quality of life — for Central Iowa.
We all need to recharge and refocus sometimes. Nothing does the trick quite like water, and you’ll find it in abundance here in Central Iowa. Create your own iconic adventure today.
Embrace sunny afternoons canoeing down the river. Find fish in a place where no one can find you. Reconnect with your family under the stars. Whether you dip your toes in slowly or dive headfirst, you’ll discover there’s no end to the activities waiting for you along the water trails.
EXPLORE ACTIVITIESOnce completed, ICON Water Trails will include 80+ amenities, providing easy access for kayakers, anglers and campers — bikers and hikers too. For students of any age, ICON is one large classroom for learning about conservation initiatives, natural heritage and water safety.
Explore Access PointsICON Water Trails is an inclusive and welcoming destination for all. Whether you’re a water enthusiast — or enthusiastic about doing nothing but chilling along the shore — there’s something here for you
A major focus of developing the trails is improving water quality and safety — from the creek beds to the banks to the shorelines. Ultimately, elevating Iowa’s waterways to environmental conservation best practices.
The trails are home to hundreds of species of wildlife. On a typical day, you might make the acquaintance of an otter who swims by your raft, catch a glimmering sunfish, and compete with your kids to see who can identify the most warblers, flycatchers and finches in an afternoon. You may even follow the path of ancient mammals who roamed the prairies.
Our Conservation Efforts
You’ll never forget your first surfboard ride next to a downtown building or whitewater rafting in an urban setting. On ICON Water Trails, you can kayak at dawn as the river sparkles all around you. You can take on the water, or let the water take you on.
Downtown Whitewater Access Points
It may feel like the wilds of Colorado or Oregon, or a natural habitat in the middle of nowhere. But you’re in the middle of America — Iowa to be exact. Here you’ll find plenty to explore beyond the water trails.
Explore All ActivitiesDo your part to support the vision of ICON Water Trails, creating a legacy for generations to appreciate. Every donation makes a difference for today, and years to come.
Support the trailsOur rivers were the reason we settled here in the first place. This ambitious undertaking will be the reason we continue to thrive — as cities, communities and individuals.
See our Progress