Camino de San Lorenzo Pilgrimage

May 30, 2025 8:30 AM
Location: Perry, IA to Ankeny, IA

Camino de San Lorenzo, A 3-day pilgrimage walk through

In the heart of Iowa’s rolling landscapes, a sacred journey awaits. The Camino de San Lorenzo, or "Way of St. Lawrence," offers a chance to step away from the everyday and walk toward deeper faith and connection. Spanning three days and 13 miles each day, this pilgrimage is more than a physical path—it’s a spiritual voyage that nourishes the soul, strengthens community, and draws participants closer to Christ.

The pilgrimage begins on Friday, May 30th, with Mass at St. Patrick’s Church in Perry. Pilgrims will then set off on their journey along the High Trestle Trail, concluding the day in Woodward with Evening Prayer. On Saturday, the path continues from Woodward to Slater, crossing the breathtaking High Trestle Bridge and including Mass in Madrid. The final leg, on Sunday, June 1, leads participants from Slater to St. Luke’s Catholic Church in Ankeny.

Organized by Deacon Tom Bradley with the aid of Deacon David La Mare of the Diocese of Sioux City, all are invited and encouraged to register, whether for the full three days or just one Mass.

Day 1: Perry to Woodward

Friday May 30th, Day 1: Perry to Woodward

  • Check-in: 8:30 am
  • Mass Time: 9:00 AM (English)
  • Distance: Approximately 13 miles
  • Route: Follow the Raccoon River Valley Trail from Perry to Woodward
  • Lunch: Pack/cater a picnic lunch to enjoy at Minburn Park
  • Dinner: Local dining options in Woodward, such as The Whistlin' Donkey

Spiritual Exercises:

  • Morning prayer and reflection at St. Patrick's
  • Mid-morning rest stop with meditation  
  • Midday meditation on the journey and its purpose
  • Mid-afternoon rest stop with reflection
  • Evening prayer and gratitude session upon arrival in Woodward
Day 2: Woodward to Slater

Saturday May 31st, Day 2: Woodward to Slater

  • Check-in: 8:30 am
  • Start: 9 am, Meeting Point, Woodward Trail Head Park, Woodward, IA
  • Distance: Approximately 12 miles
  • Route: High Trestle Trail from Woodward to Slater, crossing the High Trestle Bridge
    • Suggested Rest Area, High Trestle Bridge (4 miles): Take in the scenic views and enjoy a moment of reflection
    • Suggested Rest Area, Madrid (6 miles): Rest at the Flat Tire Lounge, which offers amenities for cyclists and hikers
  • Lunch: Pack/cater a lunch to enjoy at St. Malach’s or Flat Tire
  • Dinner: Local dining options in Slater, such as Nite Hawk Bar & Grill

Spiritual Exercises:

  • Morning prayer and reflection on the beauty of creation
  • Mid-morning rest stop with meditation (at the High Trestle Bridge)/li>
  • Reconciliation available as you walk
  • Mid-afternoon Mass at St. Malachy’s (at Madrid)
  • Evening prayer and gratitude session upon arrival in Slater
Day 3: Slater to Ankeny

Sunday June 1st, Day 3: Slater to Ankeny

  • Check-in: 9:30 am
  • Start: 10:00 AM, Meeting Point, Grimm Park, Slater, IA
  • Distance: Approximately 14 miles
  • Route: Follow the High Trestle Trail from Slater to Ankeny
  • Lunch: Pack/cater a picnic lunch to enjoy at the Oasis
  • Dinner: Local dining options in Ankeny, such as Leaning Tower of Pizza

Spiritual Exercises:

  • Morning prayer and reflection on the journey's end
  • Mid-morning rest stop with meditation
  • Midday meditation at the Oasis
  • Mid-afternoon rest stop, with reflection
  • Sunday Mass and gratitude session with presentation of Compostela and Coin at St. Luke's Catholic Church

Register