Kayakers on a peaceful lake surrounded by autumn foliage at sunset

Activity

KayakingCanoeingSUPKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

LakeCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

Cottage Reserve Road Extension

Solon, IA · Boat Ramp · Public

Cottage Reserve Road Extension is a public boat ramp on Lake McBride near Solon, Iowa. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding. Amenities include boat ramp, parking. Best visited in spring and summer and fall.

At a Glance

Water Body

Lake

Launch Type

Boat Ramp

Difficulty

Beginner

Activities

Kayaking, Canoeing, SUP, Kayak Fishing

Parking

Parking lot available at boat ramp facility

Cell Service

Good

Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

About This Location

Cottage Reserve Road Extension offers lake paddling on Lake McBride in Iowa. Located near Solon.

Lake paddlers in Iowa will appreciate Cottage Reserve Road Extension, which offers direct access to Lake McBride and its surrounding waters.

Kayakers will find the waters here well-suited to touring and exploration. The waters here are approachable for canoes, making it a good option for family outings. Midwestern waterways provide reliable paddling through the warmer months, with vast open spaces and uncrowded conditions.

Conditions here tend to be calm and sheltered, making it suitable for paddlers of all skill levels. Plan your visit for March through November. Facilities include boat ramp and parking.

At about 5 min from Solon, Cottage Reserve Road Extension is a practical choice for paddlers based in the Solon area.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm lake waters make Cottage Reserve Road Extension ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:

Paddling Tips

  • Bring polarized sunglasses to reduce glare and spot submerged obstacles.
  • If fishing, try the coves and points where fish tend to congregate.
  • Morning hours offer the calmest water and best wildlife viewing on the lake.
  • Keep an eye on the weather — afternoon winds can pick up quickly on open water.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Cottage Reserve Road Extension?
Cottage Reserve Road Extension is a public boat ramp in Iowa. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Cottage Reserve Road Extension?
Cottage Reserve Road Extension supports kayaking, canoeing, stand up paddleboarding, kayak fishing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Cottage Reserve Road Extension?
On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Cottage Reserve Road Extension?
The best time to paddle at Cottage Reserve Road Extension is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at Cottage Reserve Road Extension?
Water conditions at Cottage Reserve Road Extension include calm, sheltered.
Is Cottage Reserve Road Extension good for beginners?
Yes, Cottage Reserve Road Extension is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

Location data: USGS ScienceBase · Water conditions: USGS NWIS · Weather: National Weather Service · Coordinates: 41.7927, -91.5357

Quick Facts

State
Iowa
Region
Midwest
Getting There
~5 min from Solon
Get Directions

41.7927, -91.5357

Best Paddling in Iowa

Read our complete guide →

Paddler Reviews

Write a Review

0/5,000 characters

Sign in to add photos to your review.

Trip Reports

Share a trip report

Sign in to write a detailed trip report for Cottage Reserve Road Extension

Sign In

Paddle Routes from Here

No paddle routes from this location yet.

Be the first to create one!