Calling all runners (and cyclists)!

With the route announced for the upcoming Cedar Rapids Marathon, what better way to get some training miles in than to scope out the first ten miles of the half and full marathons. This loop links together bike and runner friendly streets and trails, and shows off some of the newer trail miles in Cedar Rapids, featuring the Edgewood Trail as well as the just-redone last year Cedar Lake Trail. 

From Plaza Park downtown, make your way toward Ellis Blvd along First Street and E Ave, then hook onto the Ellis trail. Make sure to check out the houseboats along the way before turning right onto the Edgewood Trail and heading up, up, up across the river. Turn right at Glass Road before bombing back down toward the river along Old Orchard road and J Ave NW. 

This links up with Shaver Road and the Cedar Lake Trail, making it a perfect spot to rest the legs along the opposite shore, or keep pushing back into downtown along the CVNT and back across the river to the finish. There are plentiful spots for coffee or post-run or -ride snacks and beverages to celebrate a successful run or ride.