Sunderbruch Park

Natural Landscape

Tucked away in the west end of Davenport, Iowa, Sunderbruch Park spans 134 acres of untouched natural beauty. Though the city purchased this land back in the 1970s, it remained undeveloped until the early 2000s - like a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.

Originally called Southwest Park, it was renamed in 2006 to honor Dr. John Sunderbruch, a dedicated Davenport physician and community leader who spent his life in the west end.

The park's diverse landscape offers a mix of terrain and ecosystems. Walking through its mix of woodland and prairie areas, you'll experience some of the most beautiful wooded scenery Davenport has to offer. The rolling hills and ravines create a sense of being miles away from city life, even though you're still within city limits.

Trail System

Sunderbruch offers an extensive trail network for outdoor enthusiasts. The park features three main trail types: hiking paths, off-road biking routes, and equestrian trails.

A 1.3-mile paved multi-use path cuts through the heart of the park, meant for a casual stroll, morning jog, or leisurely bike ride. We love how this path takes you through both open meadows and shaded forest sections, giving you a taste of everything the park has to offer.

The trails are generally well-maintained and marked, but you might find some trail markers a bit confusing in places. Don't put those hiking boots away when winter arrives - the trails transform into perfect terrain for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing when snow blankets the ground.

Mountain Biking Destination

Mountain biking enthusiasts frequent Sunderbruch Park for its off-road riding opportunities in Davenport. With approximately seven miles of singletrack mountain biking trails, there's something for everyone from beginners (green trails) to experts seeking a challenge (black diamond routes).

The trails feature an exciting mix of log crossings, wooden structures, creek crossings, and technical terrain. Thanks to the local mountain bike club F.O.R.C., who created and continues to maintain these trails, riders can enjoy quality experiences without traveling far from the Quad Cities.

The forest canopy provides welcome shade over most bike trails, making summer rides more comfortable. The varied trails accommodate riders of different skill levels, from beginners to those seeking technical challenges.

Equestrian Trails

If horses are your passion, you're in luck - Sunderbruch offers about 4.5 miles of dedicated horse-friendly trails, making it the only park in Davenport where you can go horseback riding. The trails wind through beautiful scenery and are well-maintained for both horse and rider.

Just note that different trail types intersect around the park, so staying alert and showing courtesy to hikers and cyclists will help everyone enjoy their outdoor experience safely.

Amenities and Features

The park includes a covered pavilion with picnic tables and a fireplace - ideal for gathering with family or friends. Fire up the barbecue facilities for an afternoon cookout in this peaceful setting.

Kids (and kids at heart) will love the ninja warrior-style playground. Unlike traditional playground equipment, this obstacle course challenges your strength and agility with elements similar to those on American Ninja Warrior. It's a fun way to test your skills and burn some energy.

As you walk along the concrete path, keep an eye out for the park's artistic touches - metal flower sculptures and dinosaur skeletal sculptures add unexpected whimsy to your stroll. These creative elements make exploring the park more engaging, especially if you're visiting with children.

Visitor Information

You can find basic restrooms available near the trailhead. If you're bringing your four-legged friend, you'll appreciate the pet waste bags provided at trail entrances. Dogs are welcome around the park but must remain on leash.

Beyond the trail system and central amenities, much of the park remains undeveloped, preserving a valuable green space within Davenport's city limits. This combination of natural beauty, diverse recreational opportunities, and unique features makes Sunderbruch a favorite spot for locals seeking outdoor connection without a long drive.