The best walks and hikes in Scott County
5.0
(7)
136
hikers
19
hikes
Hikes in Scott County are characterized by trails within local parks and along riverfronts, such as the Mississippi River and Duck Creek. The landscape is mostly flat with some gentle, rolling hills, featuring a network of paved paths and unpaved park loops. The routes are primarily located in and around the city of Davenport.
Best hiking trails in Scott County
- The most popular hiking route is Duck Creek Trail — Davenport, a 10.8 mile (17.3 km) trail that takes…
Last updated: May 12, 2026
2.24km
00:35
20m
20m
Explore the varied landscapes of the Scott County Park Nature Trail, an easy hike covering 1.4 miles (2.2 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 62 feet (19 metres). You…
1.86km
00:31
30m
30m
The Dan Sherman Trail offers an easy 1.2-mile (1.9 km) hike, perfect for a quick escape into nature. You'll experience a gentle elevation gain of 113 feet (34 metres) over…
Sign up for free
11.7km
02:58
40m
30m
The Duck Creek Parkway Trail offers a moderate hiking experience, stretching 7.2 miles (11.7 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 122 feet (37 metres). You can expect to complete…
6.73km
01:45
50m
50m
Embark on an easy hike along the Scott County Park South Loop, a pleasant route spanning 4.2 miles (6.7 km). You'll experience gently rolling hills and short, manageable climbs as…
59.4km
15:02
110m
110m
This difficult 36.9-mile (59.4 km) hiking route follows the Mississippi River, offering continuous views of barges and riverboats. You'll gain 377 feet (115 metres) in elevation, a journey estimated to…
2.37km
00:36
10m
10m
The Riverfront Trail provides an easy hiking experience along the Mississippi River, offering pleasant views of the water. This accessible path features paved or wide crushed gravel surfaces, making it…
4
hikers
15.8km
03:59
30m
30m
Embark on a moderate 9.8-mile (15.8 km) hike along the Mississippi River Trail: Davenport Section, a route that offers continuous riverfront views. You will gain a gentle 92 feet (28…
2
hikers
17.3km
04:25
50m
50m
Embark on a moderate hike along the Duck Creek Parkway Trail, a 10.8-mile (17.3 km) route that winds through diverse landscapes. You will experience peaceful water views as the path…
1
hikers
7.99km
02:05
50m
50m
Embark on the Scott County Park loop, a moderate hiking route spanning 5.0 miles (8.0 km) with an elevation gain of 168 feet (51 metres), typically completed in about 2…
4.19km
01:06
40m
40m
Embark on an easy hike along the Scott Community College Trails Loop, a pleasant route spanning 2.6 miles (4.2 km). You will experience a gentle elevation gain of 115 feet…
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
The Rock Island Centennial Bridge, spanning the Mississippi River, was constructed to commemorate the centennial anniversary of the city of Rock Island, Illinois, in 1940. Its elegant design and strategic location have made it an iconic landmark, facilitating transportation and fostering connections between Rock Island and Davenport, Iowa, for over eight decades.
0
0
These bridges are often referred to as "The Twin Bridges" and carry traffic across the Mississippi River on I-74. The original bridge opened to traffic in 1935, and the new bridge was completed in 2020.
0
0
At 1280 acres, Scott County Park is the largest park in the county. It has several trails to choose from, as well as picnic areas, camping areas and restrooms.
1
0
The Duck Creek Trail is a paved multi-use path that runs through Davenport. It connects urban areas with parks and residential areas on mostly off-road trails.
1
0
The Duck Creek Trail is a paved multiuse path that runs through Davenport. It connects urban areas with parks and residential areas on mostly off-road trails.
1
0
There are several miles of trails that are open to the public that are located behind Scott Community College. The paths are open to runners, hikers and cyclist, so make sure you are respectful to the other trail users.
1
0
Credit Island Park is a 450 acre park located on an island between Davenport and Rock Island. There are several great trails to choose from and great views of the Mississippi River.
1
0
The Riverfront Trail is part of the larger Mississippi River Trail system and, as the name suggests, it runs along the banks of the Mississippi River. It is fully paved and popular with cyclists, runners and walkers.
1
0
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there many hiking trails in Scott County?
Yes, there are over 15 hiking routes to explore in Scott County. The trails are mostly located within local parks and along riverfronts, offering a good variety for different fitness levels.
What are the trails in Scott County typically like?
The landscape is generally flat with some gentle, rolling hills. You'll find a mix of paved paths, like those along the Mississippi River, and unpaved loops within parks. Most routes are centered around the Davenport and Bettendorf areas.
Are there any easy, family-friendly hikes available?
Absolutely. The majority of trails in the area are rated as easy, making them perfect for a family outing. A great option is the Crow Creek Park loop — Bettendorf, which is a short and manageable walk through the park.
Can I take my dog hiking in Scott County?
In general, dogs are welcome on leashes in many of Scott County's parks and on its trails. However, rules can vary, so it's always a good idea to check the specific regulations for the park you plan to visit before you and your furry friend head out.
Are there any challenging hikes in the area?
The trails in Scott County are primarily easy to moderate. If you're looking for a more strenuous outing, you could try the Credit Island Park loop via Riverfront Trail — Davenport. At nearly 10 miles, its length provides a good challenge.
What do other hikers think of the trails in Scott County?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Hikers often praise the well-maintained park trails and the pleasant scenery along the creeks and rivers.
Are there any circular or loop trails?
Yes, many of the best hikes in Scott County are loop trails within parks. This makes logistics easy as you start and end in the same place. For a scenic loop with some rolling hills, consider the Sunderbruch Park loop — Davenport.
Where can I find good views while hiking?
For lovely riverfront scenery, the Pat and Jack Bush Scenic Overlook loop in Bettendorf offers great views over the Mississippi River. Many of the park trails also feature pleasant, scenic sections through woodlands and open fields.
Are the hiking trails in Scott County free to access?
Most trails located in city and county parks, such as Duck Creek Park and West Lake Park, are free to access. Parking is also typically available at no cost at the main trailheads.
Can I get to any trailheads using public transport?
Some trailheads, particularly those within Davenport and Bettendorf city limits like the Duck Creek Trail, may be accessible via local bus routes. It is best to check the current schedules and routes with the local transit authority to plan your trip.
Are there any hikes with waterfalls in Scott County?
The hiking in Scott County is characterized by its riverside and parkland trails rather than dramatic elevation changes. As such, you won't find significant waterfalls along the main hiking routes.
What is a good short hike in the area?
If you're looking for a quick and easy hike, the Scott Community College loop — Riverdale is a great choice. It's just over 2.5 miles and provides a pleasant walk with some gentle inclines.
Most popular routes in Scott County
Most popular attractions in Scott County
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Didn’t find what you were looking for?
Check out more Hikes throughout Scott County below and find the perfect route in your destination.
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
