MADRID, Iowa—High rainfall totals throughout central and northwest Iowa have led to flooding of the Des Moines River and high lake levels at Saylorville Reservoir. This flooding is having a significant impact on the lower areas of Ledges State Park, which is slated to host the Register’s Annual Great Bicycle Ride Across Iowa (RAGBRAI) on Tuesday, July 24th.
The situation has forced park staff, local public safety officials and RAGBRAI organizers to re-route the popular bike ride to avoid the park and these flooded areas. The lowest areas along the route are currently under as much as 20 feet of water and levels are not expected to subside by the time the ride comes through.
Just how deep is the water in the Lower Ledges?
With approval from the Iowa Department of Transportation, riders will now leave Boone, eastbound on US Highway 30 and ride approximately 1 mile, turning south on Quill Avenue (R@&), where they will be travelling about 3 miles to meet up with the original route. The new route will decrease the day’s distance by 3 miles.
Map of the original and new route for RAGBRAI leaving Boone
Ledges Park Manager Andy Bartlett says “It’s unfortunate cyclists will not get the opportunity to see the scenic beauty that Ledges has to offer.” He says, “Riders will still get a chance to experience the state park atmosphere when they pass through Wildcat Den State Park later in the week.” Bartlett says, ” Ledges is definitely a gen within our state park system and I would encourage those interested in exploring what it has to offer to plan a visit in the future.”
Ariel view of the Des River encroaching on the Lower Ledges State Park
Another view of the flooding at the Ledges State Park
Lower Ledges Road underwater
(contributed article and photos, Iowa DNR)
