June 25, 2025
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…
Read more
May 30, 2025
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…
Read more
April 23, 2025
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…
Read more
March 17, 2025
On February 17, the Great Outdoors Foundation announced that the City of Windsor Heights was selected as a grantee of the MidAmerican Energy Company Regional Fund, a $125,000 endowment invested in ICON Water Trails. PROJECT PURPOSE The project is part of a larger, multi-phase improvement plan for Colby Park,…
Read more
February 24, 2025
Spring is just around the corner and it’s time to start planning your outdoor adventures! ICON Water Trails is the perfect destination to embrace all that nature has to offer, whether you’re a water enthusiast or someone who simply enjoys relaxing by the river. With over 150 miles of water…
Read more
January 28, 2025
As we look back on 2024, ICON’s five key priorities of On-Water Safety, Economic Development, Workforce & Tourism Attraction, Environmental Conservation, and Access to Recreation guided every action we took. Here’s a look at what we achieved this year in these critical areas: On-Water Safety This year, ICON made significant…
Read more
December 20, 2024
At ICON Water Trails, we are dedicated to connecting water, communities, and people. ICON advances water safety, conservation – and quality of life – in our region. Our work would not be possible without the generosity of our donors and support of our community. As you consider your end-of-year giving,…
Read more
November 22, 2024
As the temperature drops and the recreation season comes to an end, there are still plenty of ways to spend time along ICON Water Trails. Don’t let cabin fever set in – embrace the colder weather and explore a variety of outdoor activities this winter! Fishing ICON’s sites offer plenty…
Read more
October 25, 2024
ICON Water Trails and the Great Outdoors Foundation partnered again to hold the fourth annual Wild Prairie Showdown. With four esteemed individuals competing individually – and collectively – this event featured fundraising, fashion show, and interview categories. Team ICON was comprised of Rene “The Trailblazer” Martinez and Annie “The…
Read more
September 10, 2024
As the summer comes to an end, we are excited to share the latest updates on our downtown projects. Significant progress has been made across several key sites, including advancements at Principal Point, new designs for Fleur Drive, and the ongoing construction at Harriet Street. Principal Point at the Scott…
Read more