As one of three nonprofit beneficiaries of the 2026 Hubbell Extreme Golf Charity Classic, ICON Water Trails is helping transform how Central Iowans experience the outdoors. Through a regional network of water access points, recreation amenities, conservation initiatives and educational programming, ICON is reconnecting communities with the rivers, creeks and streams that define Iowa’s natural landscape.
Unlocking Iowa’s Greatest Natural Asset
While Iowa may not have mountains or oceans, it is home to more than 47,000 miles of rivers, creeks and streams. ICON Water Trails is making those waterways more accessible through an ambitious regional initiative that will connect 150 miles of waterways and 86 planned access sites across Central Iowa. These locations are designed to encourage paddling, fishing, creek exploration, wildlife observation and outdoor recreation while supporting economic development and environmental stewardship.
Today, more than 20 access sites are already open, offering residents new ways to explore the outdoors close to home.
“We don’t have mountains. We don’t have the ocean. We have 47,000 miles of rivers, creeks and streams here in the state of Iowa. That is something to be super proud of and excited about.” – Stephanie Oppel, Executive Director, ICON Water Trails
By creating a connected network of experiences, ICON is strengthening quality of life throughout the region while encouraging tourism, recreation and community investment.
A Longstanding Partnership with Hubbell
Hubbell’s support of ICON Water Trails extends back nearly a decade. From the organization’s early vision alongside then-CEO Rick Tollakson to today’s construction milestones, Hubbell leaders have championed efforts to activate Des Moines’ river corridors and create meaningful public spaces throughout the metro.
“After seeing the work done on the rivers in places like Columbus and Boise, we knew we had a really untapped economic driver flowing past us each day. We knew we could really drive workforce attraction, recreation and conservation efforts if we made these waters something people used just as much as bike trails,” said Tollakson in a previous interview on water trails.
The connection is especially significant near Hubbell communities such as Gray’s Station in downtown Des Moines, where residents can see firsthand how future ICON destinations will enhance recreation, connectivity and access to nature. By 2027-2028, the Hubbell Trailhead will welcome river floaters, kayakers, fishermen, education courses and surfers to its riverbanks all while being steps away from people’s apartments and townhomes. This urban to nature connection spans downtown Des Moines through to Gray’s Lake and Water Works Park nature trails and activities.
Through the 2026 Hubbell Extreme Golf Charity Classic, participants and supporters are helping move these transformative projects from vision to reality.
“We are absolutely honored and thrilled to be part of the Extreme Golf event and alongside such incredible causes.”
Principal Pointe: Bringing Whitewater Recreation Downtown
One of ICON’s most anticipated projects is Principal Point, a new whitewater destination along the Des Moines River near downtown. The project transforms the former Scott Avenue dam area into a recreational and environmental asset featuring whitewater features, river access, enhanced safety measures and expanded habitat for fish and wildlife.
Beyond recreation, Principal Point removes barriers that have impacted river health for decades by improving fish passage and replacing a hazardous low-head dam system. The site will also feature kayak launches, gathering spaces, trail connections, landscaping and educational amenities.
As construction progresses, Principal Point is poised to become a centerpiece of downtown recreation and an iconic destination for residents and visitors alike.
“We did what we said we were going to do. You can put the rendering next to a current photo of the river and they match. It looks gorgeous, and the sound of it is incredible.”
Hubbell Trailhead: A Place for Everyone
Located along the Raccoon River near Gray’s Lake, the Hubbell Trailhead will provide a more accessible and family-friendly water experience.
Designed for beginners, families and casual paddlers, the destination will feature gentle whitewater elements, recreation channels, habitat improvements and shoreline gathering areas. Visitors will be able to kayak, canoe, tube and explore the river in a safe, welcoming environment.
Future improvements will include nature trails and educational opportunities developed in partnership with community organizations, creating a destination that blends recreation with environmental learning.
For nearby Hubbell neighborhoods, the project adds another valuable amenity that enhances quality of life and strengthens community connections to the outdoors.
Investing in Conservation and Future Generations
ICON’s mission extends far beyond recreation. Every project prioritizes water quality, environmental stewardship, public safety and habitat restoration. Through partnerships with local governments, conservation groups and community organizations, ICON helps improve river health while creating lasting recreational opportunities.
The organization is also inspiring the next generation through its Youth Adventure Education programming. Activities such as creek stomping, fishing clinics, nature exploration and river safety education introduce children and families to Iowa’s waterways in fun and engaging ways.
“We want kids and families to understand the river. Once you know how to prepare and be safe, you can get messy, get wet and have a lot of fun.”
These experiences help build confidence, foster environmental stewardship and encourage lifelong connections to the outdoors.
Supporting ICON Through Extreme Golf
Although the 2026 Hubbell Extreme Golf Charity Classic is sold out, there are still opportunities to support ICON Water Trails and its mission. Donations made through the event help fund construction projects, educational programming, conservation efforts and long-term maintenance of the growing water trails network. Supporters can also make an impact by volunteering at events such as River Fest, participating in environmental stewardship activities or assisting with youth education programs.
Every contribution helps create more opportunities for Central Iowans to experience the waterways that connect our communities.
Join the Movement
The future of Central Iowa’s waterways is taking shape today. Through partnerships like the Hubbell Extreme Golf Charity Classic, ICON Water Trails is creating safer access, stronger communities and unforgettable outdoor experiences for generations to come.
Learn more about ICON Water Trails at ICONWaterTrails.com and explore ways to support the 2026 Hubbell Extreme Golf Charity Classic at hubbellextreme.com
