West Des Moines IowaHIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near West Des Moines, Iowa.
1. Brown's Woods
Urban Forest Escape. Discover Iowa's largest urban forest with over four miles of woodland trails. Trek rolling hills and cross scenic streams beneath a lush oak and hickory canopy. Choose between family-friendly loops or venture deeper into nature for a longer adventure.
< MORE INFO >2. Clive Greenbelt Trail
Creekside Adventure Path. Follow a paved path winding along Walnut Creek for miles through parks, woods, and neighborhoods. Bridges, wildflowers, and picnic stops make it perfect for families and leisure hikers. Enjoy easy, accessible walking and cycling for all skill levels.
< MORE INFO >3. Walnut Creek Trail
Serene Wooded Route. Experience peaceful walks as the trail meanders through shady woods and open green spaces. Connects to multiple parks and makes a great route for walking, running, or biking. Enjoy gentle terrain that's great for all ages and abilities.
< MORE INFO >4. Chichaqua Valley Trail
Rail Trail Journey. Cruise along 25 miles of former railroad corridor, fully paved and perfect for hiking or biking. Cross historic bridges, spot wildlife, and enjoy sweeping rural views. Flat terrain and scenic rest stops make it a memorable day out.
< MORE INFO >5. Easter Lake Park Trails
Lakeside Loop Walks. Circle sparkling Easter Lake on a variety of trails, from paved pathways to soft-surface woodland routes. Birdwatch, picnic, or take in lake breezes along accessible loops. Trails range from short strolls to a four-mile scenic trek.
< MORE INFO >6. Neal Smith Trail
Riverside Nature Corridor. Stretch your legs on a 26-mile path tracing the Des Moines River, linking downtown with Saylorville Lake. Encounter urban art, wildlife, and stunning water views on a mostly paved route. Ideal for energetic hikers, cyclists, and families.
< MORE INFO >7. Gray's Lake and Water Works Park
City Lakeside Oasis. Stroll the iconic pedestrian bridge or circle Gray's Lake on a breezy 2-mile loop. Connect to miles of parkland with picnic areas, gardens, and lively events. Flat, paved paths offer easy, scenic walking for everyone.
< MORE INFO >8. Heart of Iowa Nature Trail
Prairie and Woodland Trek. Venture through open prairies, wildflowers, and woodlands on this multi-use trail stretching nearly 32 miles. Look for wildlife, cross old rail bridges, and enjoy peaceful rural scenery. Mostly crushed limestone for a gentle, moderate hike.
< MORE INFO >9. Oralabor Gateway Trail
Suburban Green Connector. This paved trail links Ankeny to surrounding communities, cutting through leafy neighborhoods and parklands. Safe crossings and multi-use surfaces welcome walkers, bikers, and joggers. Connects to larger trails for extended adventures.
< MORE INFO >10. Greenwood/Ashworth Park Trails
Historic Forest Trails. Wander wooded paths in one of Des Moines' oldest parks, famous for its mature trees and wildflowers. Explore meandering, shaded trails that vary from easy to moderate. Perfect for urban explorers seeking a nature fix without leaving the city.
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