Bike & Trails
2025 VOLUNTEER DAYS:
January 25th
February 22nd
March 22nd
April 26th
May17th
June 28th
July 19th
Bikes and trails have been a big part of the Thrive story since our inception. Since 2007, Allen County went from zero miles of trails to over 60 miles, added bike route networks, as well as implementing an innovative bike share program. Trails and bikes have become a part of our identity as a community. In the context of a small rural Kansas county, that’s pretty remarkable. Whether you’re a resident of Allen County or just rolling through, our trails are something everyone can enjoy.
Interested in volunteering? One Saturday every month we host a Volunteer Work Day on the trails. Typically these events are from 9am-3pm, although all are welcome to come and go as they please. Specific work locations vary, but please contact us if you aren’t sure of where to meet. Please bring water, wear weather-appropriate clothing, and wear closed-toed shoes and long pants. Tools and gloves are provided, but feel free to bring your own.
ALLEN COUNTY TRAILS
Allen County Trails
Allen County is the King of Trails
Allen County’s network of trails features amazing diversity, including rails-to-trails, paved trails, gravel trails, dirt trails, nature trails, mountain bike trails, and fitness trails. This community sees trails as part of a holistic approach to health, recreation, transportation infrastructure, tourism destinations, and quality-of-life amenities.
Allen County Trail Magazine
Allen County Trail Magazine
To obtain a physical copy of the Trail Magazine, visit our office at 9 S Jefferson Ave, Iola, KS 66749 or find a copy at other local offices, including libraries, city offices, and more.
Follow Lehigh Trails on Facebook for updates and information.
Follow Lehigh Trails on Facebook
for updates and information.
LEHIGH PORTLAND STATE PARK
LEHIGH PORTLAND STATE PARK
Lehigh Portland State Park is the product of a years-long project led by Thrive and Iola Industries. The land was donated to the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks in 2023 by Iola Industries, and Thrive is contracted as the Grounds Supervisor for the trails. Lehigh Portland sits on the site of a former cement plant with the area now being a natural sanctuary, sitting on over 360 acres of land with a massive variety of natural sites to see. Everything from deep woodland, Kansas prairie, gorgeous coastal cliffs, and even a cave can be explored in the park. This picturesque place is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
Crisscrossing across the park are around 14 miles of trails. There are around 2.5 miles of gravel trails at the park including the around 1.2 mile long “backbone trail.” Alongside it are 12.5 miles of dirt trails perfect for mountain biking, trail running, and nature hikes!
Trail Access:
Eastern Trailhead – 1600th and Nebraska Road, Iola, KS 66749
(37.907606, -95.390773)
Western Trailhead – Washington Avenue, adjacent to Elm Creek Park South, Iola, KS 66749
(37.910114, -95.405564)
For more information and frequently asked questions on Lehigh Portland State park, please visit www.TravelKS.com or contact Kansas Department of Wildlife & Parks.
(Director of Trails)
Director of Trails
(awaiting update)
Contact:
Taryn Gregg
Director of Trails
Contact: taryn@thriveallencounty.org
Get Involved
Volunteer
Volunteer with Thrive Allen County!
Work on trails, clean up communities,
and build a healthier tomorrow.
Visit our Volunteer Opportunities Page
for more info and to sign-up!
Thrive at Home
Connect and Grow with Your Neighbors!
Thrive at Home is a trusted exchange
of community expertise through
your favorite Allen County classes,
workshops and meetings.
Donate
Support our transformative work in
Allen County and beyond. Your support of
Thrive Allen County empowers communities
and enhances health in Allen County
far beyond what grants can fund.