North Gorge Trail with Tim & Kelli
North Gorge Trail
“We abuse land because we regard it as a commodity belonging to us. When we see land as a community to which we belong, we may begin to use it with love and respect.” -Aldo Leopold
Like many going through these uncertain times, we like to head outside for fresh air, some exercise and a sense of normalcy. Tim and I found it at the North Gorge Trail System just 2 miles north of Burlington, Iowa.
This was the first we've hiked on this trail since it’s completion in 2016. We will just blame our busy lives with careers and kids' sport activities for the late arrival. They say good things come to those who wait, and man, hiking the North Gorge Trail was well worth the wait.
This system has 6 different trails to lead you on whatever adventure suits your stamina. From hiking, trail running and mountain biking, there are various skill levels from which to choose. I imagine in the winter you could even take your cross-country skis and snowshoes for a beautiful white adventure. You’ll pass from one ridge to another over sturdy wooden bridges. Don’t worry, there are no trolls (we checked).
All of these trails lead you to the views of the gentle Flint River. Depending on the soil erosion, you can carefully walk down slopes to dip your toes in the cool, rushing water. Plus, if you’re super lucky, you might find some geodes-- hollow, vaguely circular rocks, in which masses of mineral matter (which may include crystals) are secreted or even an arrowhead!
We hope you have either already had the pleasure of exploring the North Gorge Trail or are planning a quarantine escape to nature sometime soon to go check it out. Just make sure you are adhering to the CDC recommendations of social distancing and not exploring in a large group.
Be well,
Tim & Kelli Lundgren
Directions to the North Gorge Trail
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