The Lehigh Portland Trails are built on the site of a former cement plant and quarry, along the banks of Elm Creek in Iola, Kansas. The trails consist of approximately 2.25 mile of wide gravel trails and 9 miles of natural-surface trails for mountain biking, trail running, and nature hikes. The trail's name pays homage to Allen County's industrial past and specifically to the Lehigh Portland Cement Company, which purchased the Iola Portland Cement Company in 1917 and operated a major plant in Iola until 1970. The trail system will be free and open to the general public year round. There are two trailheads for the Lehigh Portland Trails, one located at the western end of the trail (approximately Washington Avenue and Elm Creek), and one towards the eastern end, at 1600th Street and Nebraska Road. Vehicle parking is available at both trailheads. Please be respectful of the neighbors, and do not block the roadways, litter, or make excessive noise. Also, please do not block the entrance gate itself, as maintenance or emergency vehicles may need access. The Lehigh Portland Trails are built and maintained by volunteers with Thrive Allen County, via a Healthy Living grant from the Kansas Health Foundation, on land owned by Iola Industries, Inc. through an easement granted to the Sunflower Rail-Trails Conservancy, Inc. The trails wind through a diverse natural environment, with riparian areas, cedar forest, the foundations of historic structures, grassy prairie, and a large spring-fed quarry lake. There are rocky ledges with great features, small climbs, and tricky roots. Stop to take photos on the bluffs over Elm Creek, and along the limestone quarry.
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