HAPPYTRAILS

ROBIN MCCLELLAND

Globe Gazette

North Iowa is known for its wealth of outdoor activities Residents hunt, fish, bike, hike, run and swim every day in our region no matter the weather Clubs and groups of like-minded and similarly skilled enthusiasts have long been a part of social life in the region.

Opportunities to get involved in the outdoors are more plentiful than ever Mason City received a $4 5 million Destination Iowa grant, and plans in the works for years are finally being realized.

The money is being used to fund Bike North Iowa, a collaborative effort between the city, Cerro Gordo County, North Iowa Human Powered Trails and Mason City Active Living and Transportation.

The state recently announced Destination Iowa grants to boost tourism and build local economies The grant is made available through the Iowa Economic

Development Authority, and the $100 million statewide investment is designed “to bolster the quality of life in Iowa’s communities and attract visitors and new residents to the state,” according to the IEDA’s website It is funded through the federal American Rescue Plan Act.

Bike North Iowa is an expansive project that includes the development of single track trails, completion of the Highline Trail, connecting existing bike paths and trails, ongoing maintenance, and the crown jewel: construction of an eight acre bike park just north of 12th Street Northeast and adjacent to the Zerbles and Lime Creek nature trails

Mason City Administrator

Aaron Burnett is keen to see construction of the park get underway

“What we have planned, you won’t find a bike park this size, with these kinds of features until you get all the way to Arkansas The volunteers we’ve had working on these plans over the years have outdone themselves,”Burnett said

In July, Mason City dedicated the new kayak and canoe launch at 12th Street Northeast. The location will soon be home to a new boulder climbing attraction as well. The park features two portage ramps,a paved trail connecting to existing pedestrian and bike trails, and a parking area

Chad Schreck, CEO of the North Iowa Corridor Economic