The Wabash Trace Nature Trail is one of Iowa’s premier trails and runs right through the heart of Malvern! Stretching more than 62 miles through southwest Iowa, the Wabash Trace is a converted railroad right-of-way that runs from Council Bluffs on the north to Blanchard on the Iowa/Missouri border. Accessible from the numerous towns the trail passes through, the Wabash Trace offers a journey through the scenic Iowa countryside. From wide-open farm fields flowing with nature’s abundant harvest to the picturesque Loess Hills of western Iowa, visitors to the Wabash Trace will find their journey on the trail a memorable experience. Biking, hiking, cross-country skiing and even horseback riding on the equestrian trails that parallel parts of the trail are some of the great ways to experience the Wabash Trace.
Trail passes are available at Classic Cafe in downtown Malvern.
Fairview Hills is a 9 hole public golf course located on the south edge of Malvern. Fairview offers reasonable prices with a fun atmosphere! Originally a sand green course, it was converted to artificial greens in the early 2000’s. In 2012, Fairview Hills upgraded to grass greens and did a complete change of the course layout.
Located at 106 E 7th St., the swimming pool and baby pool are generally open daily from Memorial Day until school starts in Malvern, weather permitting. The regular hours are 1-8 PM daily. Contact (712) 624-9010 for more information, or check them out on Facebook!
Just a few short blocks from the center of Malvern, Boehner Pond Campground is a modest camping option for those who enjoy the great outdoors. This natural, green space offers fishing, canoeing, chilling by a campfire, and is walking distance from Malvern’s thriving Main Street. Boehner Pond offers a lovely landscape nestled amongst trees for visitors to tent or spend the day relaxing.
Undergoing several 2021 improvements for campers, pond area and connection to the Wabash Trace.
Located north of the Malvern Public Library and named after John D. Paddock who discovered the city of Malvern in 1869, Paddock Park gives great shade for visitors. Take a peek in the Wortman family cabin and travel back in history to colonial times. The cabin was donated to the City of Malvern by Allen Wortman. Built by his great grandfather near Strahan in 1856, the cabin has been moved three times.
Home of the Mills County Fair and only a ½ mile south of Malvern, Mills County Fairgrounds provides adult and family entertainment, outdoor concerts, dances, and tractor pulls, and other events—fun for the whole family. Located on the fairgrounds is the beautiful Charles E. and Florence M. Lakin Community Center, which is available to rent for meetings and weddings. This space offers room for up to 500 people. (include link and fees)