Ankeny Iowa HIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near Ankeny, Iowa.
1. High Trestle Trail
Iconic Bridge Experience. Hike or bike along a scenic 25.8-mile paved trail that connects Ankeny to Woodward. Marvel at the iconic, 13-story tall High Trestle Bridge, especially stunning at sunset. Enjoy panoramic river views and interactive art displays throughout the route.
< MORE INFO >2. Neal Smith Trail
Wildlife Refuge Walk. Traverse 26 miles through lush woodlands and prairies along the Des Moines River. Spot bison, elk, and native birds in the Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge. Blend city park scenery with immersive natural habitats for a diverse hiking adventure.
< MORE INFO >3. Tallgrass Trail
Prairie Trekking Adventure. Explore a 5.9-mile out-and-back trail surrounded by tallgrass prairie and blooming wildflowers. Encounter roaming bison and vibrant pollinators in spring and summer. This easy-to-moderate hike offers wide-open skies and peaceful prairie vistas.
< MORE INFO >4. North Loop Trail
Quiet Local Loop. Enjoy a tranquil 2.1-mile loop through shaded parks and open green spaces within Ankeny. Perfect for family outings, joggers, and new hikers seeking a gentle terrain. Find moments of serenity just minutes from the city buzz.
< MORE INFO >5. Munn Woods North Trail
Woodland Escape Trail. Wander a short but scenic 0.7-mile path through mature woodland and rippling creek banks. Listen for songbirds flitting between towering oaks and maples. Ideal for a refreshing stroll or quick nature break.
< MORE INFO >6. Lake Ahquabi Trail
Serene Lakeside Loop. Circle picturesque Lake Ahquabi on a 6.4-mile trail packed with tree-lined shores and rolling hills. Spot waterfowl gliding across clear water and wildflowers brightening the route. The moderate terrain makes for a rewarding full loop hike.
< MORE INFO >7. Denmans Trail
Twisting Forest Ride. Navigate a 4.2-mile path winding through riverside woodlands and brushy thickets. The trail's varied elevation and twisting turns offer a fun challenge for hikers and mountain bikers. Wildlife sightings and peaceful glimpses of the Des Moines River are common.
< MORE INFO >8. Heart of Iowa Nature Trail
Rural Rail-Trail Stroll. Stroll along a converted rail line stretching over 32 miles through charming rural landscapes. Soak up expansive farm views and quiet prairie scenes in every season. Choose your segment for a tailored adventure, from easy walks to long-distance hikes.
< MORE INFO >9. Ledges Canyon Trail
Dramatic Bluff Hike. Scramble up bluffs and down into cool, mossy canyons on this short but stunning 0.2-mile trail. Ferns and wildflowers line stone steps carved into the landscape. Dramatic views reward every effort in this beloved state park.
< MORE INFO >10. Far West Loop
Expansive Urban Circuit. Hike a 3.8-mile circuit weaving through urban parklands and native prairie patches. The loop offers glimpses of city life blended with peaceful, open green spaces. Enjoy moderate elevation changes, ideal for a brisk workout or leisurely exploration.
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Ankeny Attractions
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