The best walks and hikes around East Moline
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hikers
11
hikes
Hiking around East Moline is primarily shaped by the Mississippi River, offering a mix of flat, paved riverfront paths and more rugged, wooded trails. The landscape features bluff-lined forests, restored prairie grasslands, and wetlands. Trails often follow the river valley, with minimal significant elevation changes, providing diverse experiences for outdoor enthusiasts.
Best hiking trails around East Moline
- The most popular hiking route is Duck Creek Parkway Trail, a 7.2 miles (11.7 km) trail that takes 2 hours 58 minutes to complete. This moderate route features minimal elevation gain and passes through varied parkland.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Riverfront Trail Loop, a moderate 5.4 miles (8.7 km) path. The trail provides open views along the Mississippi River with little elevation change.
- Local hikers also love the Scott Community College Trails Loop, a 2.6 miles (4.2 km) trail leading through parkland, often completed in about 1 hour 6 minutes.
- Hiking around East Moline is defined by paved riverfront paths, bluff-lined forests, and restored prairie grasslands. The trail network provides options suitable for different ability levels, from easy park loops to longer riverside hikes.
- The guide includes highly-rated routes that showcase the best of the region's landscape. More than 6 hikers have used komoot to explore East Moline's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 11, 2026
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hikers
4.85km
01:16
40m
40m
Explore the Dorrance Park Forest Preserve Loop, an easy 3.0 miles (4.9 km) hike that takes about 1 hour and 16 minutes to complete. You'll gain 127 feet (39 metres) as you wander through a mature hardwood forest, characteristic of the Mississippi River valley. The trail offers diverse terrain, from gentle slopes to some moderate and steep sections, providing a varied outdoor experience. Keep an eye out for birds, especially along the fire road that follows the northernmost ridge, offering a scenic highlight.
Before you head out, remember that the trails at Dorrance Park Forest Preserve are often closed when they are wet or during freeze/thaw cycles. This policy helps protect the multi-use paths from erosion, so check conditions beforehand. You are welcome to bring your pets along, but please keep them on a leash and be sure to clean up after them. Planning your visit during dry periods will ensure the best experience on this natural escape.
The preserve itself is a prime example of a mature hardwood forest ecosystem found in the Mississippi River valley. It's particularly known as a wonderful spot for bird watching, especially along the higher elevations. This route provides a straightforward way to immerse yourself in the natural beauty and diverse landscape of the area, making it a notable local escape.
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1.88km
00:29
0m
10m
The Sylvan Island trail offers a distinctive blend of natural beauty and industrial history, making it a truly unique hiking experience. You'll wander through wooded areas where lush greenery intertwines with the fascinating "Sylvan Island Ruins," including old foundations and railroad tracks, creating an almost urban exploration feel. This easy 1.2-mile (1.9 km) loop, with a gentle 15 feet (5 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 28 minutes to complete, providing scenic views of the Mississippi River along the way.
Planning your visit to Sylvan Island is straightforward, as it's accessible via a pedestrian bridge from Sylvan Island Gateway Park in Moline. The island's rocky soil is a real bonus, ensuring the trails dry quickly even after wet weather, so it's a reliable option year-round. While there's ample parking at the gateway park, arriving earlier in the day can help you secure a spot during peak times.
What makes Sylvan Island truly stand out in the Quad Cities area is its rich history as a human-made island that once housed the Republic Steel plant. Today, nature has dramatically reclaimed the site, offering a rare opportunity to explore an abandoned industrial landscape where wildlife thrives. It's also a popular spot for mountain biking, jogging, and bird watching, making it a versatile destination for various outdoor activities.
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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 this route in about 2 hours and 58 minutes. As you hike, you will pass through a varied landscape that includes native woodlands and wetlands, providing peaceful water views of Duck Creek where you might spot local waterfowl. The trail also winds past several city parks and golf courses, often providing shaded sections for a comfortable journey.
Accessing the Duck Creek Parkway Trail is straightforward, with numerous entry points available through various city parks along the route. Many of these parks are equipped with convenient amenities such as restrooms, water fountains, and picnic tables, making it easy to plan your visit. If you bring your dog along, please remember to keep them on a leash to ensure a pleasant experience for everyone.
This trail stands out for its unique blend of natural and urban environments, showcasing a diverse landscape within the city. You will encounter both serene natural areas and developed sections, including eight city parks and two golf courses that border the path. This combination makes the Duck Creek Parkway Trail a notable option for those seeking a varied outdoor experience close to urban conveniences.
4.19km
01:06
40m
40m
If you're looking for an easy and convenient outdoor escape in Riverdale, the Scott Community College Trails Loop is a fantastic option. This 2.6-mile (4.2 km) hike offers a diverse walking experience, with surfaces ranging from paved sections to gravel and packed earth. You'll wander through pleasant wooded areas with natural vegetation, interspersed with views of the college campus buildings, creating a unique blend of nature and urban accessibility. With only 115 feet (35 metres) of elevation gain, it's a gentle route that takes about 1 hour and 6 minutes to complete, making it perfect for a quick, refreshing stroll.
Planning your visit is simple, as parking is readily available on the Scott Community College campus. The trail is well-integrated into the campus environment, making it an accessible choice for students, faculty, and local residents alike. While the college has a larger network of paths, be aware that mountain biking is specifically prohibited on the walking paths of this loop, ensuring a quiet experience for hikers. It's a great trail to enjoy any time of year when you need a dose of fresh air.
What makes the Scott Community College Trails Loop stand out is its seamless integration within an urban environment, providing a connection with nature without having to leave the city. It's a notable example of how green spaces can be woven into daily life, offering a convenient and family-friendly option for outdoor recreation. This trail is a testament to accessible outdoor activity, proving you don't need to travel far for a pleasant hike.
8.66km
02:12
20m
20m
The Riverfront Trail Loop offers a refreshing escape with its gentle terrain, making it a great option for a relaxed outing. This moderate 5.4-mile (8.7 km) hike features a minimal 59 feet (18 metres) of elevation gain, allowing for a comfortable pace over its estimated 2 hours and 11 minutes duration. You'll likely find yourself on a well-maintained path, enjoying the open air and riverside atmosphere.
Planning your visit to the Riverfront Trail Loop is straightforward, as it's designed for accessibility. While specific parking details aren't provided, riverfront trails often have designated areas nearby. It's always a good idea to check local conditions before you go, especially regarding weather, and ensure you bring enough water for the 5.4-mile (8.7 km) distance. The trail is generally suitable for most of the year, but spring and fall often offer the most comfortable temperatures.
This Riverfront Trail Loop is a solid choice for those looking for a longer, yet not overly strenuous, outdoor activity in Bettendorf, Iowa. The Pat and Jack Bush Scenic Overlook is a notable feature along the route, providing a specific point of interest. Its low elevation gain makes it a family friendly option, and it's likely a popular spot for local recreation, offering a chance to connect with nature without venturing too far from urban conveniences.
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Popular around East Moline
Tips from the Community
From this spot along the Great River Trail you get great views of Sylvan Island. You can cross a bridge to the island, but there are really only hiking and single track mountain bike trails that are unsuitable for road cycling.
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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.
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This island features a variety of trails and diverse wildlife for visitors to enjoy. There are miles of single-track mountain biking trails suitable for users of all abilities, and numerous spots to pause for a picnic, birdwatching, or a bit of fishing.
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The Pat and Jack Bush Scenic Overlook is an area along the Mississippi River Trail in Iowa. It is accessible from the pathway and from a parking lot off Elm Street. There is signage for the parking lot and there are vault toilets and water fountains.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any family-friendly hikes in the East Moline area?
Yes, the region offers several great options for families. The Crow Creek Park loop — Bettendorf is an easy and relatively short walk perfect for all ages. For a paved path with playgrounds and river views, the Ben Butterworth Parkway is a popular choice among local families.
Can I take my dog on the hiking trails?
Many trails in the area are dog-friendly, but policies require them to be leashed. Popular spots like Illiniwek Forest Preserve and Sylvan Island are great for hiking with your canine companion. Always be sure to check the specific regulations for the park or preserve you are visiting and be mindful of other trail users.
Are there any paved trails suitable for walking or running?
Absolutely. The Great River Trail is the most prominent paved pathway, offering miles of flat, scenic walking along the Mississippi River. It's ideal for all skill levels. Additionally, Ben Butterworth Parkway West provides well-maintained paved trails that are highly regarded for walking and enjoying the riverfront.
What are some good places for hiking near East Moline?
The area has several excellent hiking destinations. Some of the most popular spots include:
- Illiniwek Forest Preserve: A local favorite known for its more challenging, wooded trails with some of the best climbs in the area.
- Sylvan Island: Offers a unique experience on a former industrial site with crushed limestone and dirt paths right by the water.
- Black Hawk State Historic Site: Features six miles of trails through one of Illinois' least-disturbed forests, combining nature with significant cultural history.
- Amôwa Forest Preserve: A newer option focused on conservation, with trails winding through restored prairies and forests.
What kind of scenery can I expect on hikes around East Moline?
The hiking experience is defined by the Mississippi River Valley. You'll find a mix of landscapes, from wide, sweeping views of the river on trails like the Great River Trail to dense, bluff-lined woodlands in preserves such as Illiniwek and Black Hawk. You can also explore restored native prairies and wetlands, particularly at Amôwa Forest Preserve.
Are there any challenging hikes with significant elevation gain?
While the region is not mountainous, you can find trails with some challenge. Illiniwek Forest Preserve is well-known for having some of the longest sustained climbs and descents in the Quad Cities area, with rugged, single-track paths that will test your fitness more than the flat riverfront trails.
How do the trails at Amôwa Forest Preserve and Black Hawk State Historic Site compare?
They offer different experiences. Black Hawk State Historic Site has a dense, mature forest with rugged, hilly trails and deep historical significance. Amôwa Forest Preserve is a newer conservation area focused on restoring native habitats, so its trails cross through open prairies and younger forests, making it excellent for bird and wildlife viewing.
Are there any long-distance hiking options?
Yes, for a longer day of hiking, the Credit Island Park loop via Riverfront Trail — Davenport is a great choice, covering nearly 10 miles along the river. You can also cover significant distance by hiking a long section of the 60-mile Great River Trail, which runs through the area.
Are there any trails with waterfalls near East Moline?
The landscape around East Moline is primarily characterized by riverfronts, bluffs, and prairies. While the trails are scenic, they are not known for featuring waterfalls. The main water features you'll encounter are the Mississippi and Rock Rivers, as well as lagoons in some local parks.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in this area?
Spring and autumn are ideal for hiking around East Moline, offering pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery with spring wildflowers or fall foliage. Summer can be hot and humid, making early morning hikes preferable. Winter hiking is possible, but be prepared for cold, wind, and potentially icy or snow-covered trails, especially along the exposed riverfront.
Are the hiking trails generally free to access?
Yes, the vast majority of hiking trails in and around East Moline, including the Great River Trail, Illiniwek Forest Preserve, Amôwa Forest Preserve, and Sylvan Island, are free to access for hiking. Some locations, like Black Hawk State Historic Site, may have fees for museum entry but the trails themselves are typically open to the public without charge.
What are some easy, shorter hikes for beginners?
For a gentle introduction to hiking, the Scott Community College loop — Riverdale is a great option. At just 2.6 miles through parkland, it's perfect for a quick and easy outing. The paved paths at Ben Butterworth Parkway also offer very easy and accessible walking.
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