Beverly Park Trails: Cedar Rapids' Technical Paradise in a Burr Oak Forest

Overview

Tucked away in the heart of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Beverly Park Trails offer a densely packed mountain biking experience. A relatively small 80-acre parcel of land serves as a canvas for 5 miles of versatile, multi-directional singletrack. Operated and continuously improved by the local mountain bike club LAMBA, this trail system provides plenty of variety for riders of all skill levels.

Getting There

Navigate to the address 37th Ave SW & 21st St SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52405 on any map website. A gravel parking lot next to an old softball field welcomes you. A kiosk, replete with maps and information, stands adjacent to the parking area. The trail entrances can be found to the left of the kiosk.

Trail Specifications and Topography

Key Features

• Distance: 5 miles
• Level: Intermediate
• Route Type: Network
• Location: Cedar Rapids, Iowa

Trail Highlights

• Burr oak forest setting offers native upland scenery
• Multiple intersecting trails with optional "trail features"
• Varied levels of difficulty let riders tailor their experience
• Compact design makes excellent use of limited space

Rider Reviews and Insights

• Trail Conditions: Well-maintained, thanks to the consistent efforts by LAMBA.
• Versatility: From green trails for beginners to more challenging options, the park offers something for everyone.
• Community: Wednesday nights usually see group rides, perfect for newcomers wanting a guided tour.
• Trail Quality: High "smiles per miles" ratio, filled with flow and small features around every corner.
• Updates and Reroutes: Trails are regularly enhanced for sustainability and usability.

Final Thoughts

Beverly Park Trails defy their spatial limitations by offering an intricate network of intersecting trails. The mix of natural and man-made obstacles keeps even experienced riders engaged. Despite some mentions of a lack of long climbs for cardio, the trail compensates with a good variety of grades and technical features, such as berms, skinnies, and bridges.Beyond the trail itself, the community stewardship stands out. Regular group rides and active online forums offer newcomers a warm welcome. And let's not forget the ongoing trail work, making each visit potentially different from the last. Beverly Park Trails are not just another trail system; they are a dynamic, living course that evolves with its community of riders.For the latest trail conditions and community discussions, consult the LAMBA website and Facebook group. And if you're in Cedar Rapids, do yourself a favor: don't miss this hidden gem.