The Chichaqua Valley Trail is a 20-mile scenic receational trail between a point just east of Bondurant in Polk County and the Jasper County town of Baxter.

The trail, built on an abandoned rail line, cuts through meadows, rolling farm land and beautiful woodlands. It also includes a scenic crossing of the Skunk River. The paved surface makes it popular with rollerbladers as well as cyclists and hikers. Along the trail, you will see mile markers that show the distance to Kansas City. These markers were part of the original railroad route.

The trail crosses stone bridges built in 1885 by the Wisconsin, Iowa & Nebraska Railroad. In later years, the line was used by the Chicago, St. Paul, & Kansas City Railroad (1886-1892); Chicago Great Western Company (1892-1968); and finally, the Chicago & Northwestern Railroad Company (1968-1984). The line was abandoned in 1984, and reopened as a recreational trail in 1987.

Parks with tables and benches can be found along the route in the towns of Baxter, Ira and Mingo. A completely restored caboose that has been turned into a museum for railway memorabilia is located in the trailhead parking lot in Baxter.

Wildflowers along the trail

Trail Map - courtesy of Polk County Conservation Board

The Polk County trailhead and parking area is on Northeast 88th Street, south of U.S. 65 and one mile east of Bondurant.

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