Jewellsworth to Little Wall Lake Trail
Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation is excited to see the continued development of the Jewellsworth Trail, a project that INHF staff helped advance more than 15 years ago. Construction of this nearly 1.5-mile trail extension will connect the Jewellsworth Trail between Ellsworth and Jewell to Little Wall Lake County Park, creating a continuous 6-mile multiuse trail that enhances recreational opportunities for both local residents and park visitors.
Trail Progress
Working in partnership with Hamilton County Conservation, all land necessary for this trail corridor has been secured. In early 2026, the project was awarded a $408,000 Transportation Alternatives Set-Aside (TASA) grant through MIDAS, the region's metropolitan planning organization. These funds will support the construction of a new trail bridge just north of Little Wall Lake County Park, an important step toward completing the trail connection and expanding recreational opportunities in the area.
Finishing the Trail
An additional $1.35 million is needed to complete the trail, including surfacing and the final connection to Little Wall Lake County Park. Hamilton County Conservation and its partners are now working to raise $350,000 in local matching funds, a critical investment that will unlock future state and federal grant opportunities and move the project closer to construction.
