On the western edge of Council Bluffs, Iowa, the Wabash Trace Nature Trail carves through leafy woodlands and gentle inclines, offering one of the region’s most approachable gravel bike trails. This low-key route stretches between Council Bluffs and Mineola, threading through shaded groves, occasional open vistas, and well-maintained rest spots that make it ideal for casual riders and walkers alike. Among the highlights along this trail is the Thursday Night Taco Ride, anchored at Margaritaville, a spot that doubles as a community gathering and celebration for outdoor enthusiasts.

The Taco Ride experience combines the simplicity of a gravel trail ride with a social atmosphere centered around food, camaraderie, and sunset views. Riders on the Wabash Trace find a well-equipped trailhead at Margaritaville, complete with picnic tables, benches, bike repair stands, and grills. For just $2 per individual, participants can cruise a shaded path before arriving to enjoy freshly made tacos served up in a convivial setting. This weekly event has gained a strong local following, functioning both as an entry point for newcomers and a regular unwind session for locals, with some travelers, like former residents returning from afar, making it a must-do ritual.

The trail itself is an accessible gravel route with only mild elevation changes, weaving through stands of native trees that provide ample shade during warmer months. Multiple benches and viewpoints offer spots to pause and appreciate the quiet landscape. For families, casual riders, or anyone seeking a relaxed outdoor social experience, the Thursday Night Taco Ride is uniquely tailored to blend low-intensity physical activity with a welcoming community vibe.

Council Bluffs’ location near the Missouri River and the Missouri side’s more rugged outdoor options make the Wabash Trace a perfect complement—a green lung with a slower pulse. The trail and its weekly social rides fill an important niche, supporting healthy habits, local connections, and outdoor enjoyment in an accessible format. Whether you come for a quick 5-mile pedal or to linger over tacos as the sun dips, the Wabash Trace and its Taco Rides create a distinct stop in the Midwest’s outdoor recreation landscape.