Project Updates

ICON saw incredible progress across our network in 2025. From downtown and regional projects to public art installations, enhanced on-water maintenance and safety, and successful fundraising events, we are proud of what we've accomplished. Together, these efforts continue to advance our mission of connecting water, communities, and people while improving Central Iowa’s quality of life. [...]

ICON’s On-Water Maintenance and Safety program plays a vital role in our mission to connect water, communities, and people. This program maintains the rivers and creeks across our network, ensuring that our water trails remain accessible, navigable, and safe for all users. Work in this program is done in close partnership with our participating jurisdictions [...]

ICON Water Trails has added its 17th active site to its regional network, with the Walker Johnston Park Creek Access officially open. A recipient of the MidAmerican Energy Regional Fund, the City of Urbandale received $125,000 to enhance the park with a creek access point, an outdoor classroom, interpretive signage, and reforestation. The project also [...]

ICON Water Trails and the Great Outdoors Foundation partnered again to host the fifth annual Wild Prairie Showdown. This year, Team GOF and Team ICON were led by one individual competitor, with three alumni competitors offering each team support and expertise. The event raised nearly $190,000 and had more than 400 in attendance. THE EVENT  [...]

While fall weather hasn’t quite arrived yet here in Iowa, cooler days will be here before we know it. Paddling is a great way to connect with the outdoors and take in the fall foliage, but as temperatures drop it’s important to stay mindful of changing conditions. Before you head out, take a moment to [...]

The Wild Prairie Showdown is back, with the Great Outdoors Foundation and ICON Water Trails partnering once again on a peer-to-peer campaign advancing conservation and recreation in the region. The Wild Prairie Showdown is a vibrant grassroots event that will conclude with a pseudo-pageant in which two local participants, and their teams, compete to be [...]

Ready to hit the water? You won’t have to go far — there are plenty of exciting paddling adventures coming up right here in the area. Take a look at some of the upcoming events and sign up using the links below. Sunset Kayaking at Easter Lake Learn the basics of kayaking before hitting the [...]

On June 11, ICON Water Trails hosted the first-ever ICONic Riverfest – made possible by Polk County – raising nearly $25,000 and removing 560 pounds of debris and 15 trailer loads of invasive species surrounding the region’s waterways. ICONic Riverfest is a regional volunteer initiative dedicated to furthering ICON’s mission of improving the quality, safety, [...]

Recreation season is officially here, and there’s no better way to soak up the sun and explore Iowa’s natural beauty than by hitting the water! ICON Water Trails connects you to more than 150 miles of trails across Central Iowa, offering a wide range of paddling opportunities. Whether you're a seasoned paddler or trying out [...]

At ICON Water Trails, environmental stewardship is at the heart of everything we do. A major focus in developing our trails is improving water quality and safety — from creek beds and streambanks to shorelines and beyond. That’s why this Earth Month, we’re celebrating the work that is making a difference across Central Iowa’s waterways. [...]