Check out this bike and brewpub tour heading west out of Waukee. Enjoy an afternoon making your way towards Perry and back averaging 42 miles for the day. Love it so much? Check out the Bacoon Ride happening annually in June traveling the entire Racoon River Valley Trail looping back to Waukee.
Written by Claire Tuchek
Helpful Hint: It’s a great ride for all levels of bikers as it is relatively flat and a smooth ride.
Starting Location: Waukee Trail Head
The Racoon River Valley Trail kickstarts at the Waukee Trail Head located just off of Hickman road on the north side near 10th street. Formerly, this was the intersection of railroads, now home to the start of the 89-mile paved trail.
First Stop: Five Points
- Tuesday-Saturday, 11 AM – 10 PM., Sunday, 12-8 PM
- 1405 Walnut St, Dallas Center, IA 50063
Your first stop is located just under 9 miles from the trail head. Situated just to the left of the trail in Dallas Center’s main street you fill will find Five Points. With ample indoor and outdoor space, you and your pals will have room to sit down and enjoy a brew or two. This makes a great spot for food to fuel up or replenish for the day. Enjoy one of their many delicious handmade appetizers, burgers, or entrees while here.
Second Stop: The HandleBar
- Friday – Saturday 11 AM – 8 PM., Sunday 11 A M- 2 PM., Wednesday- Thursday 4-8 PM.
- 1607 Sugar Grove Ave, Dallas Center, IA 50063
Next, it’s only a short distance between your first stop and The HandleBar located on the bike trail itself! Located also in Dallas Center, you will find ample outdoor seating here. Order from the take out window and sit and enjoy the beautiful weather on their fabulous 3 acre grounds with a pond! They offer 32 craft beers on tap that pair nicely with their handleburger 😉 Be sure to check their social media for the latest specials, events, and hours.
Third Stop: Mudders Bar
- Open daily, 12 PM – 2 AM
- 104 4th St, Minburn, IA 50167
Not far down the path, you will find Minburn with an old trail depot on the Racoon River Trail. If you look to the left of the depot, you will find Mudders Bar. Mudders is known to mix up some tasty cocktails with daily deal specials and bar food to accompany. Be sure to come with your cash or they have an ATM available if it’s forgotten as they are a cash only bar. Enjoy your delicious drink on the patio or inside to cool off!
Fourth Stop: The Proletariat
- Saturday – Sunday open 1 PM., Monday-Thursday open 4 PM., Friday 3 PM
- 1213 2nd St, Perry, IA 50220
Now that you’ve started out hot and hit multiple locations all within a short span of each other, it’s time for the final stops in Perry before heading back for the day. Staying on the Racoon River Valley trail will get you to main street Perry where you will find this library enthused bar, The Proletariat and your next stop. They are home to more beer, craft cocktails, books, pool, and a jukebox. Plus, they have expanded to have some outdoor seating! Sit back, have a drink, and read a book if you dare, you are sure to have a good time here.
Fifth and Final Stop: Tin Pig Tavern
- Tuesday – Saturday open 11 AM., Closed Sunday – Monday
- 1201 2nd St, Perry, IA 50220
Once you’ve had your fair share of beverages at The Proletariat, bop on over to the Tin Pig Tavern. This 100 year old building is family owned and operated with all varieties of handcrafted beers brewed right in town! Enjoy daily food specials and a nice cold beer after a good day’s work cycling along the trail before heading back to Waukee. And if just needing a bite to eat, we would recommend the Graziano Dip.
And there you have it! This full ride is pretty easy and direct out one way and back on the Racoon River Valley Trail. Be sure to check social media pages for the latest hours, events, and specials.
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