Posted: March 31, 2026 in City News
FOR RELEASE: MARCH 31, 2026, at 11 a.m. CDT
Decorah Parks and Recreation, Visit Decorah, Decorah Human Powered Trails
Decorah Earns National IMBA Trail Town Designation
Designation Celebrates Communities Leading With Trails
[Decorah, IA] (March 31, 2026) Decorah has been recognized as a 2026 IMBA Trail Town, a new national designation from the International Mountain Bicycling Association (IMBA) honoring communities with an exceptional commitment to building, maintaining, and celebrating trail systems.
The IMBA Trail Town designation recognizes communities that are leading with trails by demonstrating strong trail infrastructure, a commitment to trail funding, an active local trail organization, a culture of community engagement, and a sustainable trail stewardship plan. Together, these criteria support healthy lifestyles, local economies, and outdoor recreation access.
“Receiving the IMBA Trail Town designation recognizes the incredible work of community leaders who have worked for years to build and care for trails in Decorah. This designation highlights the collaboration between local organizations like Decorah Human Powered Trails, Decorah Parks & Recreation, Visit Decorah, Northeast Iowa Resource Conservation & Development, Luther College and the City of Decorah,” stated Nick Pearch, President of Decorah Human Powered Trails.
Trail systems are increasingly recognized as important drivers of outdoor recreation economies.
“In Decorah, trails aren’t just amenities—they’re part of our identity. They shape how visitors experience the Driftless landscape, linking outdoor adventure with our downtown, local businesses, and cultural assets. This recognition highlights the role trails play in strengthening our tourism economy while enhancing quality of life for residents and visitors alike,” said Alyssa Ritter of Visit Decorah.
The recreation economy in Iowa continues to grow: in 2024, it reached $5.9 billion in economic activity while employing 47,807 people.
“Trails are an integral part of the city and the parks and recreation system. Outdoor recreation enhances the quality of life for Decorah residents and draws people to the area to explore Decorah. This recognition highlights how valuable trails and open space are to communities. We are honored to be designated an IMBA Trail Town and appreciate the investment and support for trails,” stated Marc Holtey, Decorah Parks and Recreation Director
As part of the Trail Town designation, Decorah joins 28 communities leading a growing national network of trail-forward places committed to trail stewardship, collaboration, and expanding access to outdoor recreation.
“IMBA congratulates Decorah on its IMBA Trail Town designation,” said David Wiens, IMBA Executive Director. “IMBA Trail Towns are leading with trails by demonstrating how trails support thriving, resilient communities. The IMBA Trail Town designation is more than a badge of honor. It’s national recognition that a community values trails and the people who ride them.”
Local trail leaders say the recognition will help strengthen future partnerships and support continued trail development and stewardship.
For more information about local trails and how to get involved, visit https://parks.decorahia.org/trail-maps or https://www.facebook.com/DecorahHPT
For more information about the IMBA Trail Town designation, visit https://www.imba.com/designation/trail-town.
Media contact:
Marc Holtey, City of Decorah Parks and Recreation Director, 563-277-5150, mholtey@decorah.iowa.gov
About Decorah (IA) Parks and Recreation
The Decorah Parks and Recreation Department is responsible for overseeing nearly 664 acres of land which encompasses 23 parks and recreational areas, a municipal pool and campground, 25+ miles of off-road trails, and segments of the 11-mile paved Trout Run Trail. Parks and Recreation staff and volunteers host dozens of community events each year and provide safe recreational opportunities for participants year-round. In partnership with the community, Decorah Parks and Recreation takes great pride in enriching the lives of others through quality parks and programs that people of all ages, abilities and income levels have the chance to participate in.
About Visit Decorah
“Visit Decorah promotes the Decorah area as a hub for outdoor adventure, culture, and community in the Driftless Region. Its work supports local businesses while inspiring visitors to explore and connect with the area.”
About Decorah Human Powered Trails
Decorah Human Powered Trails is a volunteer organization that builds, maintains, promotes and enhances trail experiences in Decorah, IA.
About IMBA
The International Mountain Bicycling Association (IMBA) is a 501c3 nonprofit that creates, enhances, and protects great places to ride mountain bikes. IMBA is focused on Leading with Trails by partnering with communities on trail advocacy, education, stewardship and sustainable trail solutions, so everyone has access to great places to ride and recreate.