GRAY'S LAKE PARK
2101 Fleur Drive, Des Moines, IA 50315 Directions
Here’s The Deal:
"Gray's Lake Park is a dog-friendly place where you can walk around. The 167-acre park features a 1.9-mile lighted trail that surrounds the lake. The hours of Gray's Lake Park vary seasonally, so visitors can call upfront or review their website before planning their trip. It has a two-mile walking trail, rental boats. It's a great place to get out and enjoy the town. The neighboring Raccoon River back-up waters and stormwater supply water to the park's 100-acre iconic lake. Gray's lake contains a circular jogging trail with rainbow lights that make it sparkle during the evening. Guests can also rent paddleboats, sailboats or kayaks to enjoy the lake.
SPECIALITY:
Boat Ramps, Canoeing, Fishing, Activities, Boardwalks, Beach, Birdwatching, Sailing, Marinas, Park Resource Center, Biking, Swimming, Playground, Water Play Areas, Picnicking, Picnic Tables, Walking, Grills & Boat Launch
TBR® Inspection Report:
EASTER LAKE PARK
2830 Easter Lake Drive, Des Moines, IA 50320 Directions
Since 1967
Here’s The Deal:
"Easter Lake Park is the 178-acre lake, is a beautiful location on the south side of Des Moines. The boat ramp offers users to anglers attempting to capture the bass, the walleye. The free-swimming beach is another perfect way to enjoy the lake throughout the summer. The lake was started opening, and the new trails make it a great place to go walking or riding a bike. The mixture of grass and paved trails is available.
SPECIALITY:
Volleyball Courts, Fishing, Swimming, Multipurpose Recreation, Picnicking, Boating, Geocaching, Canoeing, Ball Fields, Shelters, Playgrounds, Walking & Historic Bridge
TBR® Inspection Report:
BROWN'S WOODS
465 Brown's Woods Drive, West Des Moines, Des Moines, IA 50265 Directions
Since 1972
Here’s The Deal:
"Brown's Woods is the main city forest protection area in Iowa, provides more than four miles of trails to visit. The 486-acre woodland of the 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. Brown's Woods can only be accessed by cross-country or foot skis. The park provides quality outdoor entertainment, environmental awareness, to Polk County residents and tourists. There are two amphitheaters for the wooden bench and lots of geocaches, lunch picnic tables, and clean toilets.
SPECIALITY:
Geocaching, Walking, Hunting, Park, Road, and Mountain Biking, Plants, Outdoor Activities, Nature Trips, Running, Wild Flowers, Trapping Animals, Forest Lake & Cutting Wood