Our Mission

The Manson Trail is dedicated to creating a safe, inclusive network that provides local and regional connections for the residents of Manson, Iowa, and surrounding areas. We strive to promote a healthy lifestyle and increase the overall quality of life by offering a well-maintained trail system for walking, biking, and other recreational activities. The Manson Trail currently is .7 miles from Highway 7 to 7th Avenue, with future plans to complete the trail to the Fairgrounds.

Fairies on the Manson Trail

The Fairies on the Manson Trail book is out!  We are very excited to share this book with everyone.  It is a fundraiser, with all profits going directly to the trail.  Members of our Trail Committee read to several classes at Manson Northwest Webster School Elementary School on Halloween.  The book was written by Denise Ramthun-Marine and illustrated by Sandy Herrmann, both local residents to the area.

Denise & Sandy

Denise, the author of the book, currently resides outside of Knierim, but grew up on a farm near Manson and graduated from Manson High School.  She is married to Doug and has three children, Delaney, Dailyn and Dawson, who all went to Manson Northwest Webster Schools.  Sandy, the illustrator of the book, grew up near Bagley, Iowa.  She is married to Rick and they have two daughters, Amanda & Katie, who both are graduates of Manson Northwest Webster.  She also has four grandchildren currently in the Manson Northwest Webster School District.  Sandy and Denise were both very excited to have their first book published and agreed that all proceeds would go toward funding the Manson Trail.

Fairies on the Manson Trail on Halloween 2025

Thanks to the community members and friends for coming to the trail on Halloween!  We had so much fun!

Map of the Manson Trail

Fundraising & Events

Guidelines of the Manson Trail

Frequently Asked Questions

How much money will it cost to build the Manson Trail?

$340,000.00

Where do I send donations?

Checks payable to City of Manson - with Manson Trail in MEMO

**Donations are tax deductible**

Mail or drop off at City Hall

1015 13th Street

Manson, IA. 59563

What are the benefits the Manson Trail?
  1. Provides a safe path that conncect the north and south ends of town, including three parks.
  2. Provides a recreation area, for community and area residents, of all ages.
  3. Promotes physical activity.
  4. Improves accessibiility throughout the town.
  5. Improve overall health and well-being of the community.
  6. Makes our community attractive to new businesses and residents.

Who owns and maintains the trail?

The City of Manson.

"Coming together is a beginning; keeping together is progress; working together is success."

Henry Ford