A Unique Experience at Rail Explorers in Boone, Iowa
If you’re looking for a unique way to rail-y the family for an unforgettable adventure, Rail Explorers in Boone, Iowa, is the ticket! Whether you’re a local or just passing through, this one-of-a-kind experience blends relaxation, sightseeing, and a little bit of exercise, making it the perfect outing for anyone looking to switch tracks from the ordinary.
Where is Boone?
Boone, IA is in the western part of Iowa. It’s about 50 minutes north of Des Moines and about 2 1/2 hours from Omaha, NE.
Parking?
Parking is simple and right at the station, so no need to worry about being derailed by complicated logistics… and it’s FREE.
Check-In
Check in at the Rail Depot. You’ll see it in front of you as you walk from the parking lot.
What to Bring?
We brought a small cooler with water and snacks and there was a basket to keep it in. There’s also a small enclosed compartment that can hold your phone.
You may want to bring a hat or portable fan for hot, sunny days. Maybe a blanket for cooler days or sunset rides. It can get breezy over the bridges.
You’ll want sunscreen and sunglasses on sunny days too.
Bug spray if bugs usually bother you. I would definitely bring it with if you plan to do the sunset ride.
Bathrooms?
There is a bathroom at the beginning and then at the end when you return. There is NO bathroom along the route or at the turnaround point.
What is Rail Explorers?
Rail Explorers in Boone is an unforgettable adventure where you pedal along old railroad tracks on a specially designed rail bike. It’s a blend of nature, history, and exercise all rolled into one. Get ready to track down some fun in a way you’ve never experienced before.
The pedal bikes are available in 2-seater and 4-seater options. They’re all electric assist so they are very easy to pedal.
Everyone that rides is required to wear a seatbelt. I was actually happy about this because it made me feel safer as we rode across the Bass Creek High Trestle & the Des Moines River Bridge.
The seats are padded but our backsides were getting sore on the ride back. You may want to bring a seat cushion if you think this may be a problem for you.
The noise is a bit loud, like a train running along the rails. Overall, though it’s not deafening and you’ll survive. I only tell about this in case you have a child that has a sensitivity to noise. You may want to bring some ear plugs/headphones.
Tip: If your group needs more than one rail bike, ask the staff before the ride to group your bikes together. We had two bikes, and they already arranged them for us, but it’s best to double-check since there’s no passing on the rails, and you stay in the order you start.
What Do You See?
You ride through some wooded areas, past farms (we saw cows roaming around), and under a bridge, but the most exciting part is when you get to ride over 2 bridges.
The highlight of the ride is The Bass Point Creek High Trestle Bridge which is 156 ft tall and 750 ft long! The other bridge, The Des Moines River Bridge is not quite as long and high but still very cool to ride over. Be sure to get some cool pictures, but also take in the scenery too!
One person from the staff is standing at the beginning of the bridge and only allows 1 rail bike to cross at a time. You really get to experience the ride as if your group is the only one on the rail.
How long is the ride?
The ride is about 2 hours long total. This includes there and back. The staff uses a turntable type of device to turn each car around while you get out and stretch your legs for about 20 minutes or so. There was a set of bags to play and places to sit. There is NO bathroom at the turn-around.
How Far Do We Ride?
Depending on which trip you choose, the total miles you’ll ride is between 11.5-12.5 miles roundtrip- about 6ish miles each way.
How Do I Book My Ride?
You can book right on their website. You pick the type of ride you want. There are 3 available. Scenic Valley Trail (12.5 miles), Scenic Valley Sunset (12.5 miles), and Scenic Valley Trail to Eddy’s Cove (11.5 miles).
We rode on the Scenic Valley Trail.
You choose the date and how many people. It will tell you the type of rail bike you need, what times are available, and the price.
Tip: I suggest you book as far out as you can when you know you’re date, especially for large groups during busy seasons like summer. I booked ours a couple of months ahead of time for our July trip and times and dates were getting to be slim pickins.
Can I bring my pet?
No. Pets are not allowed.
Accessibility?
Anyone can ride. One person that sits in the braking/stop position is really the one who is doing most of the work. When they start pedaling, the assist motor engages and helps with pedal power. Everyone can pedal to help out and be part of the experience or take a break too.
Rainy Weather?
The tours will run rain or shine as long as it’s not dangerous to ride. Rail Explorers provide umbrellas on every bike so you can use it to shield from the sun or rain.
Other Locations
West Virginia, California, Kentucky, Catskills, Cooperstown, and Rhode Island. Check out the info here.
Don’t Forget. . .
Stop by the wooden sign in front of an old railroad car that says “Ride the Rails” Boone, IA for a photo op!
Rail Explorers in Boone, Iowa, offers more than just a ride—it’s a chance to slow down and enjoy the beauty of the great outdoors in a completely unique and new way. This rail-biking adventure is sure to leave you with lasting memories. So, grab your crew, book a ride, and get ready to pedal through history—your next great adventure is just around the bend!
Road Trip Add On
On our way to the Rail Explorers, we stopped at the “World’s Largest Truck Stop” on I80. It has a sit down restaurant, food court, chiropractor, shopping, a truck museum and so much more. This was a great place to grab some food and stretch our legs.