Mississippi River Trail: Guide to Quad Cities Sections

The Mississippi River Trail (MRT) offers over 3,000 miles of biking and walking paths from Minnesota to Louisiana, showcasing the Mississippi River's beauty and history. In the Quad Cities - Davenport, Bettendorf, Moline, and Rock Island - this trail intersects with the American Discovery Trail, offering nearly 100 miles of connected paths. Key highlights include:

• Davenport: 11.3 miles of paved trail featuring Credit Island Park, Centennial Park, and LeClaire Park.
• Bettendorf: A 3.9-mile stretch with Leach Park, scenic river views, and connections to Iowa's trail network.
• Illinois Side: Over 60 miles, including Ben Butterworth Parkway in Moline and Illiniwek Forest Preserve in Hampton.

The trail combines urban riverfronts, historical sites, and natural landscapes. Seasonal activities like bald eagle spotting in winter and water taxi rides in summer add to the experience. Parking and amenities are available throughout, making it an accessible and enjoyable destination for all.

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Davenport Section of the Mississippi River Trail

Trail Description and Terrain

Stretching 11.3 miles from Davenport’s western city limits to the Bettendorf border, this section of the Mississippi River Trail is a haven for cyclists and pedestrians alike. The trail is paved with asphalt and concrete, offering a smooth and level surface that’s perfect for all experience levels. As it winds along the riverfront, the path connects neighborhoods, parks, and historic landmarks, making it one of the best day trips around the Quad Cities.

Parks and Landmarks Along the Route

The journey begins at Credit Island Park on the western end, a sprawling 400-acre site steeped in history - it was the site of a War of 1812 battle led by none other than future President Zachary Taylor. Heading east, the trail passes through Centennial Park, a vibrant space transformed from its past life as a landfill and rail yard. Today, it features a skate park, spray grounds, and even a dog park.

In downtown Davenport, LeClaire Park serves as a lively hub with its bandshell, monuments, and a pedestrian bridge that seamlessly connects to the city center. Nearby, you’ll find Modern Woodmen Park, home to the Quad Cities River Bandits baseball team, and the historic Village of East Davenport, where quaint shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues add a touch of local charm.

Where to Park and Access the Trail

Accessing the trail is easy, thanks to several well-placed parking areas. Key spots include Lindsey Park near the eastern end by the East Village, LeClaire Park downtown, Credit Island Park on the western side, and Veterans Memorial Park along the riverfront. If you need a bike, rentals are available at the Quad Cities Convention & Visitors Bureau, located at 102 S. Harrison St., Davenport.

Bettendorf and Iowa Sections of the Mississippi River Trail

Bettendorf Trail Highlights

The 3.9-mile Bettendorf section of the Mississippi River Trail stretches from Leach Park on the west side to the Duck Creek Parkway intersection in the east, providing a smooth, paved path along the Mississippi River. This segment runs right through downtown Bettendorf, offering easy access to shops, restaurants, and attractions like the Isle Casino Hotel and the Quad Cities Waterfront Convention Center.

Leach Park serves as the main trailhead and is packed with amenities. You’ll find scenic river views, a boat launch, fishing spots, picnic shelters, and restrooms. Located at the western end of the trail, it’s a great starting point. Heading east, the trail crosses a bridge over Crow Creek, giving you stunning, uninterrupted views of the Mississippi. This stretch seamlessly connects to the larger Iowa MRT network, making it an integral part of the system.

Iowa MRT Connections

From Bettendorf, the trail continues eastward, linking Davenport and Riverdale as part of the 14.3-mile RiverWay Trail. This section ties together Iowa communities, offering riders picturesque riverside views, historic towns, and inviting waterfront parks.

At the eastern end, the Duck Creek Parkway intersection connects to a 13.5-mile interior trail system that loops through Bettendorf and Davenport. Convenient parking is available at South Bellingham and State Streets, just off U.S. Highway 67. Cyclists should note the trail’s 15 mph speed limit and the requirement to ride single file on the right.

Illinois Sections of the Mississippi River Trail

Trail Route and Key Stops

The Illinois stretch of the Mississippi River Trail (MRT) spans more than 60 miles, running from Rock Island to Savanna. Within the Quad Cities area alone, it covers 34.4 miles of flat, paved paths that are easy to navigate. Along the southern portion of the trail, you’ll find several key riverfront parks, such as Sunset Park in Rock Island, Ben Butterworth Parkway in Moline, and Empire Park in East Moline. These spots not only offer scenic views but also serve as convenient access points with parking available.

Heading north, the trail leads through Heritage Park, Illiniwek Forest Preserve, and Fisherman's Corner in Hampton. It continues to Shuler's Shady Grove Park in Rapids City and the riverfront park in Port Byron. The route takes you through a mix of settings, transitioning from bustling urban areas with shopping and residential neighborhoods to quieter industrial zones and serene natural landscapes. Be sure to check with local trail managers for updates on closures, especially during periods of high water.

During the summer months, you can enhance your experience by hopping on the Channel Cat Water Taxi. This seasonal service has docks at Moline's Riverbend Commons and John Deere Commons, offering a unique way to explore the riverfront. Together, these Illinois highlights provide a rich mix of urban charm and natural beauty, complementing the neighboring Iowa and Davenport sections of the MRT.

Connections to Other Trail Systems

The Illinois portion of the Mississippi River Trail isn’t just a standalone path - it’s part of a broader network of interconnected trails. It links with major routes like the Great River Trail, the American Discovery Trail, and the Grand Illinois Trail. These connections open up opportunities for extended adventures, whether you’re aiming for the coast-to-coast American Discovery Trail spanning over 6,800 miles or exploring the 500-mile loop between Lake Michigan and the Mississippi River. This integration makes the Illinois MRT an exciting gateway for biking and walking enthusiasts looking to go further.

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Planning Your Visit to the Mississippi River Trail

Trailhead Locations and Parking

Starting your journey on the Mississippi River Trail is a breeze, thanks to multiple access points across the Quad Cities. In Davenport, popular trailheads include Lindsey Park (near the East Village), LeClaire Park downtown, Centennial Park, and Credit Island Park. Over in Bettendorf, you’ll find access at Leach Park, while Riverdale provides parking near South Bellingham Street and State Street.

On the Illinois side, Moline's Ben Butterworth Parkway is a great starting spot. It offers not just access to the trail but also playgrounds, picnic spaces, and marina facilities. This area also connects to the Ralph B. Birks Memorial Trail section of the Mississippi River Trail.

If you’re visiting in the summer, the seasonal Channel Cat Water Taxi is a fun way to cross the river. It operates with docks at Lindsay Park (Davenport), Isle Casino (Bettendorf), and both Riverbend Commons and John Deere Commons in Moline. This makes it easy to explore both sides of the river while enjoying the scenery from the water.

Best Times to Visit the Trail

The trail is at its best between April and November. During this time, you can rent a bike for $7.00 per hour or $28.00 per day, with a helmet and lock included. Summer is perfect for taking advantage of the water taxi, while autumn offers stunning views of fall foliage. If you’re visiting in January, don’t miss the chance to spot bald eagles along the upper Mississippi shores - this is their prime viewing season.

Since the trail is located on a floodplain, it’s a good idea to check with local trail managers for any closures caused by high water levels before heading out.

Trail Safety and Accessibility

The Quad Cities sections of the Mississippi River Trail are designed with safety and accessibility in mind. They feature smooth, flat surfaces, making them ideal for families, cyclists, walkers, inline skaters, and even those with mobility challenges. Most trail segments are rated easy to moderate, ensuring a pleasant experience for a wide range of users.

For longer rides, like Davenport's 11.3-mile stretch, be sure to bring plenty of water. If you’re out after dark, reflective gear and a flashlight are essential. During winter, stick to paved sections, as unpaved connectors can become slippery, and always keep an eye on river conditions for potential flooding.

For the latest trail updates and detailed local guides, visit QC.LocalDayTrips.com.

Full-Time RV Life Adventure: Quad Cities Bike Ride on Mississippi River Trails Local Eats & More!

Conclusion

The Mississippi River Trail in the Quad Cities offers a captivating mix of urban charm and natural beauty. This stretch of the trail weaves together scenic views, historical landmarks, and convenient amenities. From watching bald eagles at the sprawling 513-acre Nahant Marsh to visiting historic sites or catching a River Bandits game, there's something for everyone. And for a unique perspective, the Channel Cat Water Taxi provides a fun way to cross the Mississippi while soaking in views from both shores.

"The bike paths are an excellent way to explore both sides of the river in the Quad Cities." - Jessica Waytenick, Quad Cities Convention & Visitors Bureau

The Upper Mississippi River generates over $1.5 billion in economic activity annually and supports more than 18,000 jobs. These features highlight why the Quad Cities are a must-visit destination along the Mississippi River Trail, offering nearly 100 miles of connected paths through the Quad Cities RiverWay system.

Looking for more inspiration? Head to QC.LocalDayTrips.com to discover additional trails and attractions for your next riverfront adventure.

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