The best road cycling routes around Waukee
5.0
(2)
358
riders
26
rides
Road cycling routes around Waukee, Iowa, are characterized by an expansive, well-maintained trail network. The region features predominantly flat terrain, vast prairies, and agricultural landscapes, interspersed with wooded areas. The Raccoon River Valley Trail serves as a central artery, offering smooth, paved surfaces ideal for road cycling. This infrastructure provides numerous opportunities for cyclists to experience the distinctive natural beauty of central Iowa.
Best road cycling routes around Waukee
- The most popular road cycling route is Perry Trailhead – Perry…
Last updated: June 28, 2026
58
riders
62.1km
03:09
90m
90m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5.0
(1)
35
riders
43.3km
02:37
150m
150m
The Gray's Lake Park loop from Clive offers a dynamic road cycling experience, transitioning from the lush, wooded corridors of the Clive Greenbelt Trail to the open, scenic vistas of…
Sign up for free
50
riders
41.6km
02:51
130m
130m
The Walnut Creek Trail – Gray's Lake loop cycling route offers a delightful blend of natural escape and urban charm, perfect for a road bike. You'll pedal through the lush…
31
riders
65.4km
02:57
200m
200m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
15
riders
35.6km
01:44
130m
130m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Waukee
Tips from the Community
Perry’s trailhead is cute, welcoming, and functional from its one-legged candycane arch to the massive car lot (48-hour parking! Woo!). Porta potty’s, upgraded water fountains, colored lawn chairs, food trucks, and a bike maintenance stand/tools are available. The trail itself splinters off in several directions. One part toward Jefferson/Dawson/Jamaica/Redfield, another toward Woodward/Ankeny, and a third section toward Dallas center/adel/waukee. The trail winds through town in a very intentional sort of way, hitting several parks, restaurants, the hospital, and showing off some of Perry’s more interesting qualities.
1
0
This sandy beach at Gray’s Lake is a great spot to pause during or after your hike. Dip your feet in the water, relax on the sand, or even have a quick picnic before finishing the loop around the lake.
0
0
The Bill Riley Trail is a 2.7-mile paved pathway that winds through wooded areas, including Ashworth Park, and crosses the Raccoon River via a rustic trestle bridge. The trail is named after Bill Riley, a member of the Des Moines Park Board who played a significant role in raising funds for the city's trail system. It is popular among cyclists, walkers, and runners, and although dogs are welcome, they must be kept on a leash. Parking is available near the Ashworth Memorial Pool in Ashworth Park, and in Gray's Lake Park.
0
0
The Principal Riverwalk is a smooth, scenic pathway along the Des Moines River, perfect if you're looking to explore downtown. Its well-paved paths and pedestrian bridges connect key districts, making it an excellent route for both casual spins and fast-paced rides. The city views and riverside breeze make it a great place to stretch your legs on two wheels.
0
0
The Bill Riley Trail is a 2.7-mile paved pathway that winds through wooded areas, including Ashworth Park, and crosses the Raccoon River via a rustic trestle bridge. The trail is named after Bill Riley, a member of the Des Moines Park Board who played a significant role in raising funds for the city's trail system. It is popular among cyclists, walkers, and runners, and although dogs are welcome, they must be kept on a leash. Parking is available near the Ashworth Memorial Pool in Ashworth Park, and in Gray's Lake Park.
1
0
The Walnut Creek Trail is a 3.2-mile, flat, paved multi-use trail that serves as a vital connector within the Des Moines metropolitan area's extensive trail network. Starting in Windsor Heights, the trail links to the Clive Greenbelt Trail at 73rd Street, providing access to the western suburbs. It extends southward, connecting to the Bill Riley Trail, which leads into Des Moines' broader trail system. The trail is popular for biking, inline skating, walking, and birding.
0
0
As you make your way over the bridge you will catch views of the Raccoon River, a tributary of the Des Moines River. Stretching over 30.8 miles, this river winds through an area of intense cultivation, including croplands and livestock farming. Since the 19th century, the Des Moines metropolitan area has relied on this river for drinking water, although it faced challenges during the Great Flood of 1993.
0
0
Gray's Lake Park has a total size of 166-acres and is located in the heart of Des Moines. The lake of the same name is the park's main feature and is surrounded by a path for cycling and hiking. One of the highlights is the bridge that crosses the lake, as it can be illuminated in the evening and nighttime.
1
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect on road cycling routes around Waukee?
Road cycling routes around Waukee are predominantly characterized by flat terrain, making them accessible for various skill levels. You'll experience expansive prairies, agricultural landscapes, and interspersed wooded areas, offering diverse scenic views.
Are there many easy road cycling routes in the Waukee area?
Yes, the Waukee area offers a good selection of routes suitable for easy road cycling. Out of the 19 available routes, 7 are classified as easy, providing pleasant rides for beginners or those seeking a relaxed experience. An example of an easy route is the Walnut Creek Trail loop from Clive.
What are some notable landmarks or attractions along the road cycling routes in Waukee?
Cyclists can discover several interesting points along the trails. The Waukee Trailhead Public Art Project, also known as the Waukee Railroad Pergola, is a significant public art installation at the Raccoon River Valley Trailhead. Further afield, you can explore the Living History Farms, which offers a glimpse into Iowa's agricultural past.
Are there any long-distance road cycling routes available from Waukee?
Absolutely. The Raccoon River Valley Trail (RRVT) is a major draw, offering an impressive 89-mile paved loop that connects Waukee with 14 other communities. For a substantial ride, consider the Perry Trailhead – Perry Trail Head loop from Waukee, which covers 38.6 miles and connects directly to the RRVT.
What do other road cyclists say about the routes in Waukee?
The road cycling routes in Waukee are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars from over 5 reviews. More than 300 road cyclists have used komoot to explore the area, often praising the well-maintained paved surfaces and the diverse landscapes, from open prairies to wooded sections.
Are there any loop routes for road cycling around Waukee?
Yes, many of the routes in and around Waukee are designed as loops, offering convenient starting and ending points. The Raccoon River Valley Trail itself forms a large loop. For a popular option, try the Gray's Lake beach – Gray's Lake Park loop from Clive, which takes you through urban parkland and along lake shores.
Where can I find parking for road cycling trails in Waukee?
Waukee serves as a key trailhead for the Raccoon River Valley Trail, and parking facilities are typically available at these trailheads. The Adel Trailhead is one such example, providing access to the extensive trail network.
What are the best seasons for road cycling in Waukee?
The best seasons for road cycling in Waukee are generally spring, summer, and fall. These seasons offer pleasant temperatures and allow you to fully enjoy the expansive prairies and wooded areas. The smooth, paved trails are well-suited for cycling during these times.
Are there options for road cycling that include urban parks or river views?
Yes, some routes offer a blend of natural and urban scenery. The Gray's Lake Park – Water Works Park loop from Clive is a great example, featuring urban parks and scenic river views, providing a varied cycling experience.
Can I find amenities like food and drinks along the road cycling routes?
The Raccoon River Valley Trail, which is central to Waukee's cycling network, is well-equipped with amenities. You'll find rest stops approximately every six miles, and various towns along the route offer options for food and drinks, making it convenient for longer rides.
Are there any routes that connect to other major trail systems?
Yes, the Raccoon River Valley Trail connects to other multi-use pathways throughout central Iowa. Notably, it links to the High Trestle Trail via the Perry Trail Head, allowing for extended adventures to see the iconic 130-foot-tall bridge across the Des Moines River Valley.
What is the overall difficulty level of road cycling routes in Waukee?
The road cycling routes around Waukee cater to a range of abilities. The majority of routes are classified as moderate (12 out of 19), with a good number of easy options (7 out of 19). The predominantly flat terrain contributes to their accessibility, making them suitable for most road cyclists.
Are there any routes that offer a mix of natural and urban landscapes?
Yes, for a route that combines natural beauty with urban elements, consider the Raccoon River – Gray's Lake Park loop from Waukee. This route takes you along the Raccoon River and through Gray's Lake Park, offering a diverse cycling experience.
Most popular routes around Waukee
Most popular attractions around Waukee
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Road cycling routes in other regions.
