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Hiking
Hike the Katoski Greenbelt Soft Trails, an easy 2.0-mile route through prairies and woodlands alongside Black Hawk Creek in Waterloo, Iowa.
Last updated: February 26, 2026
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Your route passes through a protected area
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Waypoints
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3.18 km
End point
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
3.18 km
Surfaces
3.16 km
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Monday 18 May
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16°C
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Max wind speed: 22.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
The trails are primarily narrow double tracks that follow Black Hawk Creek. You'll find the terrain mostly flat, with only short, easy climbs, making it suitable for various skill levels.
Yes, the Katoski Greenbelt Soft Trails are considered easy to moderate, with mostly flat terrain and minimal elevation changes. This makes them a great option for beginners and families looking for an accessible outdoor experience.
You can expect diverse natural beauty, including pleasant waterside views along Black Hawk Creek, prairies, lakes, and floodplain woodlands. Keep an eye out for common tree species like Silver Maple and Cottonwood.
Absolutely! The greenbelt features Greenbelt Lake, which has its own perimeter trail, and the Robertson Bird Sanctuary, which is excellent for wildlife viewing and bird watching. The trails also connect to the Pat Bowlsby Off-Leash Dog Park.
The Katoski Greenbelt Soft Trails are multi-use and shared by walkers, runners, bikers, and horseback riders. In winter, they are also popular for cross-country skiing, fat tire biking, and snowshoeing.
Yes, there's an extensive network of numerous spurs and loops off the main greenbelt trail. Specific named trails include the Dog Park Trail (~2.5 miles), the Greenbelt Lake Loop (~1.2 miles), and several loops within the Robertson Bird Sanctuary, offering various distances and experiences.
Various parking lots are available along the trail system. You can find access points and parking at Ridgeway Avenue, Ranchero Road, and Shaulis Road.
Yes, the Katoski Greenbelt Soft Trails are dog-friendly. The north end of the trail even connects to the Pat Bowlsby Off-Leash Dog Park, which has a drinking fountain for pets.
The trails offer something year-round. While beautiful in spring, summer, and fall for hiking and wildlife viewing, they are also popular in winter for activities like cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
No, there are no entrance fees or permits required to access and enjoy the trails within the Leonard Katoski Greenbelt.
Beyond excellent bird watching opportunities, the greenbelt provides habitat for various game and non-game species. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, especially around the Robertson Bird Sanctuary and along Black Hawk Creek.