Gray's Lake Park is a 167-acre park with a 1.9-mile lighted trail surrounding the lake. The park is a dog-friendly place where you can walk around. The park has a two-mile walking trail, where you can rent the boats. The neighboring Raccoon River backup waters and stormwater supply water to the park's 100-acre iconic lake. Gray's Lake has a circular jogging trail with rainbow lights that make it sparkle during the evening. The hours of Gray's Lake Park vary seasonally, so visitors can call upfront or review their website before planning their trip. There are plenty of grassy areas to lay out blankets and enjoy a nice day. Guests can also rent paddleboats, sailboats, or kayaks to enjoy the lake. Gray's Lake Park is a place to get out and enjoy the town. The park features restrooms, off-street parking, open space, a boat ramp, a playground, and a walking/bike path.
Best Hiking Trails in Des Moines
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GRAY'S LAKE PARK REVIEWS
Went there to check out the view and had a scenic jog around the lake(about 2 miles for a full lap) and dip in the lake where the water was perfect. Definitely going again!
Beach area and small boat rentals are available. Nice trail around the lake which is connected to other trails around the city. Waterworks Park across the street has lots of fishing spots.
Great place to walk and enjoy the nice weather..
Walnut Woods State Park is a state park of Iowa located in West Des Moines, Iowa. The park is a 260-acre nature reserve with trails, camping, river boating, fishing, and a 1930s lodge for rentals. The park has more than two miles of trails, meandering through wooded bottomland along the Raccoon River. Visitors can explore the 90 bird species in the park. Walnut Woods State Park protects the bottomland hardwood forest and North America's largest natural stand of black walnut trees. The park has an unpaved hiking trail that is about 2 miles long which takes you through lush woods with beautiful views of the Raccoon River. The park also features a fun playground for the kids to play on. Visitors can also enjoy the Boat Ramp and Full-Hookup Campsites here.
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WALNUT WOODS STATE PARK REVIEWS
Definitely a fun little state park with well maintained tails. There are also areas where you're able to get down to the water even though the river is pretty deep at this time. Highly recommend checking this park out if you're in need of nature therapy.
We made reservations and then learned that camping is for reservations only. Good thing.
Beautiful park. Great trails! Good fishing! Great amenities! Nice little drive as well!
Brown's Woods is Iowa's main city forest protection area, providing more than four miles of trails to visit. The 486-acre woodland of West Des Moines comprises a canopy of oak and hickory trees enhancing from Brown's Woods Drive to Raccoon Creek. Brown's Woodland is fun to visit at any time of year. The park can only be accessed by cross-country or foot skis. The park has quality outdoor entertainment and environmental awareness for Polk County residents and tourists. There are two amphitheaters for the wooden bench, lots of geocaches, lunch picnic tables, and clean toilets. The park of Wildlife preserve is filled with oak and hickory trees as well as trails for hiking and geocaching. Brown's Woods is a great place to get good exercise and connect with nature.
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BROWN'S WOODS REVIEWS
Great little hike!!! So peaceful and pretty. BRING bug spray! My 7 year old son loved it! The trail signs also give u the option of a guided audio tour at each point by dialing a number on your phone! VERY COOL!!!! Forage black berries when they are ready!
Great walking trail. Lovely tree canopy keeps you out of the sun for the majority of the time. I did wear bug repellent and recommend it. There can definitely be some muddy spots after rain, so be mindful of recent weather.
So awesome to hike, breathe fresh air and take in the beauty of the Woods..