Each spring, the South Skunk River around Nevada, Iowa, wakes with a pulse, daring local volunteers to answer its call. The Story County River Cleanup stretches along roughly 5 miles of riverbank, where residents and adventurers gather to not just hike but engage directly with the environment—restoring and respecting a waterway fiercely itself. Expect forested paths weaving through oak and cottonwood groves, patches of tall grass bending to the wind, and river currents pushing forward beneath a sky that often shifts capriciously.

The route itself is approachable but demands attention. Terrain ranges from smooth dirt trails to sections where roots and rocks break the earth’s surface, revealing the river’s restless power. Elevation changes are subtle—a gentle rise and fall that mirror the river’s natural rhythm, but your footing must be deliberate. Effective footwear is key; waterproof hiking shoes or sturdy boots can handle occasional muddy banks from recent rains.

Participants should plan for approximately 2-3 hours to cover the cleanup stretch, factoring time to collect and bag debris. Hydration is essential: the river’s presence cools the air, but active effort—and sometimes sun-exposed spots near the shoreline—can dehydrate quickly. Arrive early in the morning when temperatures are mild and the light reveals the bluegreen sweep of the water and the crisp detail of leaf veins catching sun.

This event is as much about connection as exercise. Trees stand as quiet witnesses; the river itself is a living participant, offering resistance to pollution and encouraging care. You’ll meet others driven by a practical purpose as much as a love for the outdoors—a shared mission that turns this trail from a simple walk into deliberate action. Pack gloves, wear layers, and prepare to tread respectfully, knowing the cleanup fights the steady encroachments of litter and urban runoff.

Bring a camera if you wish: river reflections capture light differently every moment, and early migratory birds may appear on exposed shorelines. Yet remember, the river's power is constant and demands respect—move carefully over slippery rocks and avoid stepping too far from established paths.

Whether you’re new to outdoor stewardship or a seasoned volunteer, the Story County River Cleanup offers a clear challenge and a tangible reward: a river corridor clearer and healthier because you dared to walk with it, clean with it, and listen to its fiercely steady voice.