3 Best Hiking Trails in Des Moines, IA

"Walnut Woods State Park is an ideal destination to have a pleasant and relaxed time with friends and family. This is a 2.7-mile loop trail with an elevation gain of 22 feet. This loop-type trail is generally considered an easy route. This route approximately takes an average of 47 minutes to complete. This is a perfect spot for enjoying a diverse array of recreational opportunities such as birding, hiking, and running. The trail preserves a bottomland hardwood forest that features the largest natural stand of black walnut trees in North America. Walnut Woods State Park includes various facilities such as a wheelchair accessible parking lot, barbecue grills, picnic tables, public restrooms, kid-friendly hikes, a playground, and designated leash areas for pets for the convenience of the visitors.

"Brown's Woods is a city forest protection area, providing more than four miles of trails to visit. The 486-acre woodland comprises a canopy of oak and hickory trees extending from Brown's Woods Drive to Raccoon Creek. This nature area is enjoyable to visit at any time of year and can be accessed by cross-country skiing or on foot. Around 70,000 people make their visits to this spot every year. The trail offers quality outdoor entertainment and promotes environmental awareness among Polk County residents and tourists. The trail also features amphitheaters with wooden benches, numerous geocaches, picnic tables, and clean restrooms. The wildlife preserve within the trail is also populated with oak and hickory trees and offers additional trails for hiking and geocaching. Brown's Woods is an excellent destination for those seeking to stay active and connect with nature.

"Fort Des Moines Park encompasses a 135-acre area, once part of the former cavalry post. At the heart of the trail lies a deep 14-acre pond that is excellent for canoeing and kayaking. This is a 1.9-mile loop trail with an elevation gain of 82 feet. This loop-type trail is generally considered an easy route, and it takes an average of 38 minutes to complete. A boat ramp is available for electric motor boats, rental facilities, and historical activities. The trail also features a volleyball court, horseshoe pits, and picnic shelters. Fort Des Moines Park also ensures various amenities like barbecue grills, kid-friendly hikes, spacious playgrounds, and designated pet areas for visitors' comfort.