Facilities

The Praeri Rail Trail is a 10.5-mile recreational corridor that runs from Roland through McCallsburg to Highway 65 west of Zearing.
 
The section of abandoned railway was acquired by the county in 1978, and development began in the spring of 1979. The spelling of the word "Praeri" is in recognition of the area's strong Norwegian heritage. Many native prairie remnants can be seen adjacent to the trail. Sections of the trail at Roland and McCallsburg have a limestone surface; the remainder of the trail is mowed grass and may be difficult for all but off-road (mountain) bikes.  Access to the trail is easiest from the Roland City Park at the northeast edge of town (North Park Street and National Street) and from McCallsburg.
 
Recreational opportunities along the trail include:

• Summer trail uses such as hiking, biking, jogging, and horseback riding.
• Winter recreation, including cross-country skiing and snowmobiling.(Snowmobiles are allowed on the trail when there is sufficient snow cover. All other motorized vehicles are prohibited.)
• Viewing wildlife, picking wild strawberries, raspberries, plums, and mulberries, and enjoying nature.
• Public hunting - Sections of the trail are open to public hunting and  trapping.  Nontoxic ammunition is required. The miles of trail adjacent  to a city boundary are closed to these  activities.  Please get permission to hunt within 200 yards of any occupied buildings.
• Pets must be kept on leashes from March 15 - July 15. Pets must be kept under control at all times.