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Main Loop Trail

A long double track, multi-use trail that loops most of the conservancy.

Type: Hike, Bike, Equestrian

Length: 9.7 miles

Difficulty: Easy

Shade: Mostly unshaded

Parking/Access: Easiest access from the River Campground and Oak Ridge Campground. River Campground is where the west and east sides of the Loop connect. Trailhead for east side of the loop is within River Campground. Trailhead for west side of loop across the Fig Ave. bridge (second trailhead on the right).

Bett’s Farmhouse, Woodland Carriage House, and Oak Ridge Farmhouse rental accommodations all are located on the Main Loop. 805 River Cabin and the Log House are located on Mail Loop Spurs.

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Whiterock Conservancy’s longest trail, the Main Loop stretches a total of 9.7 miles around Whiterock, not including four additional spurs. The Main Loop is also one of Whiterock's oldest trails as it was originally a series of old farm roads. Along this trail, you can see everything from prairies, agriculture fields, pastures, oak savanna restoration, wetlands, forests, and more. Along the Middle Raccoon River are several cretaceous sandstone outcrops, including the Whiterock and Redrock Bluffs. Also, there is a good chance of seeing evidence of river otters along the river and varied wildlife through all the different ecosystems of the Main Loop. The Main Loop also features several ponds that are open to the public for fishing. The west and east sides of this loop connect to the south at the River Campground (trailhead down Fig Ave. across the bridge and in River Campground) and to the north at a bridge crossing. The northern bridge was damaged by a prior flood and visitors should use caution when crossing. Main Loop’s double track trail is open for all users: hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrians. In addition, the Main Loop and its spurs can be driven by Whiterock’s rental ATVs. Private ATVs are not permitted at Whiterock, except for special events such as the Slow Sunday Drives, and no vehicles can cross the damaged bridge.


Caution: damaged bridge on river crossing at north end of loop. Use cation when crossing. Crossing this bridge is not permitted on the rental ATVs and discouraged for equestrian users.


Note: The route of the Main Loop Trail changes slightly by opening and closing of pasture gates in different seasons. Follow the associated red directional signs and open gates. 


Closed gates = closed trails.

Accessibility


Material: compact grass/dirt with some limestone aggregate reinforced sections.

Width: wide. 

There are many inclines and difficult terrain areas, and it is Whiterock's longest trail.

Trail Gallery

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