The best walks and hikes around Rock Island Arsenal

As it's an active military installation, all visitors who are not Department of Defense affiliated must get a visitor pass. You can obtain one by presenting a valid government-issued photo ID at the Visitor Control Center at the Moline Gate. Once you have your pass, you are free to explore the designated recreational areas.

Yes, the area is well-suited for families. The terrain is mostly flat, especially along the river. A great option is the Scott Community College loop — Riverdale, which is a short and easy walk. Many of the paved paths along the Great River Trail are also perfect for a family outing.

Many trails in the Quad Cities area are dog-friendly, provided your dog is on a leash. Parks like Sunderbruch and Black Hawk State Historic Site are popular with dog walkers. However, specific regulations on Rock Island Arsenal itself can change, so it's always best to check for current signage regarding pets upon arrival.

The region is defined by its riverfront trails. The Great River Trail is a 62-mile path that runs along the Mississippi, with sections accessible from Rock Island Arsenal. For a dedicated riverfront route, consider the Fort Armstrong via Riverfront Trail — Davenport, which offers excellent views of the water and the historic island.

For a less developed trail experience, Sylvan Island is a great choice. This former industrial site offers unpaved crushed limestone and dirt paths that wind through a more natural setting. The Rock Island County Forest Preserve also provides a more rustic environment for hiking away from paved surfaces.

A walk on Rock Island Arsenal is a journey through history. You can see the Rock Island National Cemetery, the Colonel Davenport House, a replica of the Fort Armstrong blockhouse, and Quarters One. A self-guided tour is available that highlights over 30 historic sites across the island.

Yes, there are several excellent loop trails. The Sunderbruch Park loop — Davenport is a popular choice that takes you through a beautiful wooded area. For a longer loop that combines park and riverfront scenery, the Credit Island Park loop via Riverfront Trail — Davenport is a fantastic option.

For access to the Arsenal itself, you must enter through the Moline Gate and will find designated parking areas near recreational spots and trailheads. For hikes in surrounding parks like Black Hawk State Historic Site or Sunderbruch Park, there are dedicated parking lots available at the main entrances.

The Great River Trail provides the best opportunity for long-distance hiking, stretching for 62 miles along the Mississippi. You can hike a significant portion of it starting from the Quad Cities. The Duck Creek Trail — Davenport is another substantial route, offering over 10 miles of continuous path through local greenways.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community. Reviewers often praise the well-maintained paved paths, the beautiful views of the Mississippi River, and the unique blend of natural scenery with American history found directly on the Arsenal island.

Besides the Arsenal itself, Black Hawk State Historic Site is a local favorite, offering trails through a peaceful, well-preserved forest. Sylvan Island is another top spot, known for its more rugged trails on a former industrial site right on the water.