Des Moines Bike Trails⁚ A Comprehensive Guide
Des Moines offers a diverse network of bike trails, catering to all levels of experience. From paved urban paths to rugged off-road trails, there’s something for everyone. Explore the city’s natural beauty, vibrant downtown, and surrounding countryside by bike, using the resources provided in this comprehensive guide. Download the Des Moines Bike Trails map (PDF) for an overview of the city’s extensive trail system, including details on distances, surfaces, and points of interest.
Introduction
Des Moines, Iowa, is a city that embraces the cycling lifestyle. Its extensive network of bike trails weaves through urban landscapes, lush green spaces, and scenic riverbanks, offering a unique perspective on the city’s vibrant personality. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist seeking a challenging ride or a casual rider looking for a leisurely stroll, Des Moines’ bike trails have something for everyone.
This comprehensive guide serves as your ultimate resource for exploring Des Moines’ bike trails. It provides an overview of the most popular trails, highlights their unique features, and points you to helpful resources like interactive maps and downloadable PDFs. You’ll find information on trail lengths, surface types, points of interest, and even maintenance stations along the way.
Des Moines’ bike trails are more than just a way to get around; they’re a gateway to discovery. Embrace the joy of cycling as you explore the city’s hidden gems, connect with nature, and experience the true essence of Des Moines.
Best Trails in Des Moines
Des Moines boasts a diverse array of bike trails, each offering unique experiences. Whether you’re seeking a scenic riverside ride, a challenging mountain biking adventure, or a leisurely family-friendly path, Des Moines has it all. Here’s a glimpse of some of the city’s most popular and highly-rated trails⁚
The Des Moines River Trail, a paved path that follows the Des Moines River, provides stunning views of the city’s skyline. The Neal Smith Trail, a 26-mile stretch along the Des Moines River, offers a mix of natural beauty and historic significance. For a challenging mountain biking experience, head to the Center Trails, a network of trails that wind through the city’s urban forest.
If you’re looking for a leisurely ride with scenic views, consider the Clive Greenbelt Trail, a 12-mile paved path that winds through parks, woodlands, and residential areas. The High Trestle Trail, a 25-mile trail that spans a historic railroad bridge, is a must-do for any avid cyclist. These trails offer a taste of the diverse biking experiences available in Des Moines.
Des Moines River Trail
The Des Moines River Trail is a paved, multi-use trail that winds along the Des Moines River, offering stunning views of the city’s skyline and the river’s natural beauty. It’s a popular destination for runners, walkers, and cyclists of all levels, providing a scenic escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
The trail begins at the Principal Riverwalk and extends for 2.6 miles downstream, ending at the James W. Cownie Baseball Complex. Along the way, you’ll pass by the Meredith Trail, offering access to a wider network of trails. The Des Moines River Trail is a great option for a leisurely ride, a morning jog, or an evening stroll.
The trail is well-maintained and features amenities such as benches, water fountains, and restrooms. It’s also a popular spot for birdwatching and wildlife viewing. The Des Moines River Trail is a must-visit for anyone looking to enjoy the outdoors in the heart of Des Moines.
City of Des Moines Bike Maintenance Station Map
The City of Des Moines Bike Maintenance Station Map is an invaluable resource for cyclists navigating the city’s extensive trail network. This map pinpoints the locations of strategically placed bike maintenance stations, ensuring that riders have access to essential tools and resources for on-the-go repairs.
These stations are equipped with basic tools such as air pumps, tire levers, and wrenches, allowing cyclists to address minor mechanical issues without having to interrupt their ride. Whether a tire needs inflating or a chain needs adjusting, these maintenance stations provide a convenient solution for keeping your bike in optimal riding condition.
The map is readily available online, allowing cyclists to plan their routes and identify the nearest maintenance station in advance. By utilizing the City of Des Moines Bike Maintenance Station Map, cyclists can enjoy worry-free rides, knowing that they have access to the necessary tools and resources in case of unexpected mechanical issues.
Regional Trails Map
The Regional Trails Map for Des Moines provides an expansive view of the interconnected network of trails that extends beyond the city limits. This map is a valuable resource for cyclists looking to explore the surrounding areas and connect with nature. It showcases a comprehensive overview of regional trails, highlighting their locations, lengths, and connecting points.
Cyclists can use this map to plan multi-day adventures, linking various trails and exploring different landscapes. The map features a variety of trail types, from paved paths ideal for leisurely rides to more challenging off-road routes for experienced cyclists. The Regional Trails Map is a collaborative effort, produced by UnityPoint Health, the City of Des Moines, Friends of Des Moines Parks, and various community organizations.
This comprehensive resource promotes cycling as a sustainable and enjoyable form of transportation and recreation, encouraging residents and visitors to explore the beautiful natural surroundings of Des Moines and its surrounding areas. Hard copies of the Regional Trails Map are available at local bike shops and community centers, ensuring that cyclists have easy access to this valuable resource.
Center Trails
Center Trails offer a unique and diverse cycling experience within the heart of Des Moines. This system of interconnected trails weaves through the city’s urban forest, providing a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of downtown. Whether you’re seeking a leisurely ride or a more challenging adventure, Center Trails cater to a range of skill levels and preferences.
The trails, which span approximately 13 miles, are characterized by their fast-flowing singletrack paths, creating a thrilling and engaging ride. The varied terrain offers a mix of easy and moderately challenging sections, ensuring an enjoyable experience for both beginners and experienced cyclists. Center Trails are a testament to the city’s commitment to providing accessible and engaging outdoor spaces for its residents and visitors.
The trails are conveniently located near various amenities, including the Ashworth Pool, where cyclists can access a bike maintenance station equipped with an air pump and tools for basic repairs. This ensures that riders can easily maintain their bikes and enjoy a smooth and worry-free cycling experience on Center Trails. A downloadable PDF map of the Center Trails system is available online, providing detailed information on the trail layout and connecting points.
Iowa Bicycle Map (PDF)
The Iowa Bicycle Map is an invaluable resource for cyclists exploring the state’s diverse network of trails. This comprehensive PDF document provides a wealth of information, making it a must-have for any avid cyclist in Iowa. The map showcases hundreds of miles of multi-use trails, encompassing both urban and rural landscapes, allowing cyclists to discover the beauty and charm of Iowa’s diverse terrain.
Beyond the trail map itself, the PDF offers a concise summary of Iowa bicycling laws, ensuring that cyclists are informed and compliant while enjoying their rides. It also provides detailed information on multi-use trails exceeding 10 miles in length, highlighting some of the state’s most scenic and extensive cycling routes.
Safety is paramount, and the map includes valuable bicycling safety tips, reminding cyclists of essential practices for a secure and enjoyable ride. The PDF also features trail maps of Iowa’s largest cities, making it easy for urban cyclists to navigate the city’s extensive trail networks. The map provides traffic levels for all paved trails, allowing cyclists to plan their routes based on their preferred level of traffic and congestion.
Neal Smith Trail
The Neal Smith Trail is a popular destination for cyclists and outdoor enthusiasts seeking a scenic and leisurely ride. This 26-mile trail, a key part of the Greater Des Moines region’s extensive trail network, meanders along the banks of the Des Moines River, traversing the Ding Darling Greenway conservation area.
As you journey along the trail, you’ll be treated to a captivating tapestry of landscapes, each offering its unique allure. From the tranquil riverbanks to vibrant wildflower meadows, serene lakeshores, and dense forests, the trail provides a diverse and engaging experience. The trail’s gentle gradient and well-maintained surface make it suitable for all skill levels, making it an ideal choice for families and casual cyclists alike.
The Neal Smith Trail is not just a recreational destination; it also serves as a vital corridor for wildlife, connecting various habitats and promoting biodiversity. Cyclists can often spot a variety of bird species, deer, and other wildlife, adding to the trail’s charm and making it a true nature lover’s paradise.
Iowa By Trail
Iowa By Trail is an invaluable resource for anyone looking to explore the state’s extensive network of multi-use trails. This interactive platform provides a wealth of information and tools to help you plan your next adventure.
The website features interactive maps that allow users to easily identify trails, points of interest, and nearby amenities. You can discover local restaurants, museums, and natural resources along your route, making your journey even more enriching. Iowa By Trail also empowers you to share your experiences with others. Share photos, reviews, and trail suggestions with friends and followers, creating a vibrant community of trail enthusiasts.
The platform is designed to enhance your trail experience, offering features to help you stay informed and prepared. Keep track of your distance traveled, weather conditions, news updates, and trail events, ensuring you have all the information you need for a successful and enjoyable journey. Iowa By Trail is a must-have tool for any cyclist or outdoor enthusiast exploring the trails of Iowa.
The High Trestle Trail
The High Trestle Trail is a must-visit for any cyclist or outdoor enthusiast looking for a unique and scenic adventure. This 25-mile paved trail winds through the rolling hills of central Iowa, offering stunning views and a variety of terrain to challenge and delight.
One of the trail’s most iconic features is the High Trestle Bridge, a 131-foot-tall structure that spans the Des Moines River. The bridge offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, making it a popular destination for photographers and cyclists alike. The trail is also home to several other points of interest, including historic sites, scenic overlooks, and natural areas.
Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or a casual rider, the High Trestle Trail offers something for everyone. The trail is well-maintained and relatively flat, making it suitable for riders of all abilities. With its stunning scenery, unique features, and abundance of amenities, the High Trestle Trail is a must-add to your Des Moines cycling itinerary.
Des Moines Area Trails
The Des Moines Area Trails network encompasses a vast array of cycling opportunities, offering a mix of urban and rural routes for all tastes. With over 550 miles of dedicated cycling infrastructure, including both on-street and off-street paths, the region provides ample opportunities for exploring its diverse landscape.
The on-street network includes dedicated bike lanes, shared markings, paved shoulders, and quiet on-street routes, providing safe and convenient access for commuting, recreational riding, and exploring the city’s vibrant neighborhoods. Off-street trails offer a more serene experience, traversing parklands, riverbanks, and rural landscapes.
Whether you prefer a leisurely ride along the Des Moines River, a challenging climb through the city’s urban forest, or a scenic journey through the surrounding countryside, the Des Moines Area Trails network has something to offer every cyclist. Explore the region’s diverse trails, discover hidden gems, and experience the beauty of Iowa by bike.
Interactive Iowa Bike Map
For a comprehensive exploration of Iowa’s cycling network, the Interactive Iowa Bike Map is an invaluable tool. This online version of the Iowa Bicycle Map, available in Adobe Portable Document Format (PDF), provides an interactive and user-friendly interface for navigating the state’s extensive trail system.
Users can search for specific locations by city names or text strings, making it easy to find desired routes. The map includes details on multi-use trails, bicycling laws, safety tips, and general information relevant to cyclists. The interactive map allows users to zoom in and out, providing detailed views of specific areas.
Whether you’re planning a long-distance cycling adventure, a day trip exploring local trails, or a casual ride through your neighborhood, the Interactive Iowa Bike Map is a valuable resource for cyclists of all levels. Utilize this map to plan your next cycling excursion and discover the beauty of Iowa’s diverse landscapes.
Des Moines Bike Routes
Des Moines offers an extensive network of bike routes, providing cyclists with a variety of options for exploring the city and its surroundings. The city boasts over 234 cycle routes, ranging from short urban loops to longer scenic rides. Whether you’re seeking a leisurely ride along the Des Moines River Trail or a more challenging adventure on the High Trestle Trail, there’s a route to suit every preference and skill level.
The Des Moines Bike Routes are well-maintained and offer a combination of paved paths, bike lanes, and quiet on-street riding. Many routes connect to regional trails, allowing cyclists to explore beyond the city limits. The Des Moines Bicycle Collective provides a detailed map of bike routes, including information on distances, surfaces, and points of interest.
Explore Des Moines’ vibrant neighborhoods, parks, and cultural attractions by bike, taking advantage of the city’s dedicated bike infrastructure. Des Moines’ bike routes offer a unique and enjoyable way to experience the city’s diverse offerings.
