A volunteer-driven nonprofit that has built and cared for Jefferson County's trails since 1997.
Our mission. The Jefferson County Trails Council's mission is to build, construct, and maintain a network of trails for public use and enjoyment — and to promote, inform, and educate the general public about the trail system.
Since 1997
In August 1997, the Jefferson County Trails Council formed with the encouragement of the Jefferson County Conservation Board. At first, no one had envisioned a loop encircling Fairfield — the first task was simply to extend the Jefferson County Park trail southwest along the old Rock Island roadbed toward Libertyville.
A mile of roadbed was acquired, cleared, and rocked; a shelter was built; and with a TEA-21 grant, a 376-foot bridge over Cedar Creek rose on the abutments of the old railroad bridge. The new path was named the Cedar View Trail.
While that bridge was underway, the Council dreamed bigger — a Fairfield Loop Trail encircling the city, joined by a bikeway/walkway system of inner-city spokes to schools, parks, and points of interest. Easements were secured along surviving Rock Island sections and around the city reservoirs. The Iowa National Guard built a bridge over a spillway for training; a REAP grant funded nearly four miles of new limestone trail, completed in 2000.
Volunteers built a 342-foot bridge/boardwalk along Lamson Woods State Preserve, and in 2004 the 246-foot Louden Bridge carried the trail over the BNSF Railroad. In 2009 the Iowa DOT built the 5.7-mile southern segment alongside the Hwy 34 bypass — and the loop was complete.
Share the trail
The trails are shared by walkers, runners, and cyclists of all ages. A little courtesy keeps them safe and welcoming for everyone. Please observe any signs posted along the route.
Get involved
The trail system is built and maintained by volunteers and the generosity of the community. There are many ways to help.
Seasonal trail-maintenance days are a great way to give back — trimming, clearing, and keeping the surface in shape. Watch our Facebook page for the next date.
Donations fund bridges, surfacing, kiosks, and ongoing upkeep. Mail a contribution to the Council, or reach out to learn how your gift can help.
JCTC, P.O. Box 2375, Fairfield, IA 52556
Share the trails with friends and visitors, follow us on Facebook, and help newcomers discover everything the system has to offer.
Reach out
Questions, trail conditions, or ideas? We'd love to hear from you.