Central Iowa is a great place to take the family on a bike ride. From urban scapes to calming rides amongst fields and quaint towns, find a bike trail to explore in Des Moines. Grab your helmets and see Central Iowa from a new perspective!
Family-Friendly Bike Rides in Central Iowa
Great Western Trail, Des Moines to Martensdale
Start in West Des Moines and ride the 19-mile trail through tunnels and open fields with a must-stop at The Chicken in Orilla.
Easter Lake – Mark C. Ackelson Trail, Des Moines
This trail is great for younger riders. The 4-mile loop along Easter Lake even goes across a covered bridge.
Clive Greenbelt, Clive
Connecting the Raccoon River and Walnut Creek Trails, this 11.3 trail has multiple entry points with parking options.
Meredith Trail, Des Moines
An easy 5.2-mile trail that runs alongside the Raccoon River ending at Gray’s Lake Park where you can loop the lake on the Kruidenier Trail.
High Trestle Trail, Ankeny to Woodward
One of the most famous trails in the state and for a reason. Head across the High Trestle Bridge for unmatched views of the Des Moines River Valley.
Bill Riley Trail, Des Moines
The oldest trail in Des Moines, it’s a short mostly wooded trail with tons to see, including horse barns and a trip over a wooden bridge.
Neal Smith Trail, Des Moines to Saylorville
This 26-mile multipurpose trail extends from Des Moines through the Saylorville Lake area to Big Creek State Park. The Des Moines portion winds you through an urban wooded area connecting to the John Pat Dorrian Trail downtown.
Raccoon River Valley Trail, Waukee to Jefferson
This 89-mile paved trail begins in Waukee, winding through 14 other communities and looping back to Waukee. If you have newer riders, start at the trailhead in Waukee and make the quick, (flat) trip to Dallas Center for ice cream.
