The best road cycling routes in Banner Lakes At Summerset State Park
27
riders
4
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Road cycling in Banner Lakes At Summerset State Park offers diverse routes through a unique landscape shaped by former coal mining operations. The park features a paved scenic bike loop that connects to a broader network of trails, including the Summerset Trail. This area is characterized by rolling terrain, picturesque woodlands, wetlands, and farmlands, providing generally flat routes with gentle grades. The trails often follow former rail lines, ensuring accessible and enjoyable rides.
Best road cycling routes in Banner Lakes…
Last updated: July 13, 2026
7
riders
22.1km
00:55
90m
90m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
1
riders
48.3km
02:00
240m
240m
This easy 30.0-mile road cycling loop in Banner Lakes at Summerset State Park offers diverse scenery and gentle terrain.
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10
riders
73.7km
03:19
320m
320m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5
riders
39.7km
01:56
220m
220m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
4
riders
122km
07:03
590m
590m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
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Popular around Banner Lakes At Summerset State Park
Tips from the Community
Ankeny sits near the beginning (or end depending on direction) of the High Trestle Trail. It's a great stop for lunch or bike supplies.
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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.
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Pause your ride at Saylorville Dam for scenic views. This dam on the Des Moines River in Iowa is only 11 miles upstream from Des Moines, offering a great place to hop off your bike and take a break!
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At the Bridge over the Des Moines River, where the Inter Urban Trail crosses, you'll find a serene spot perfect for a rest and enjoying the view. Take a break here and soak in the tranquil atmosphere along the riverbank.
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Along the Des Moines River, Iowa's largest river, you'll find a wealth of culture, tradition, and recreational opportunities. Here, and along most of the trail, you'll enjoy stunning views, making it perfect for adventure-seekers and nature enthusiasts alike.
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The lake is popular on weekends for fishing and boating. There is a large parking lot along with a picnic area and a grill pavilion. The nearby restaurants and a coffee shop over the road make the lake a great meeting point to start your ride or have a mid-ride break. You can do a full lap of the lake on the Gay Lea Wilson Trail.
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The Trestle to Trestle Trail goes from Des Moines to Johnston. It is a fairly short trail at 3.7 miles long but it is a very good connector trail. It runs past some heavily wooded forests and the Des Moines River on the way so the scenery is great. It is also a good quality asphalt trail.
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Easter Lake Park is built on an old coal mine. The park has something for everyone: there is a 4 mile biking and walking trail that encircles the lake, picnic areas and a docks that allows visitors to fish for walleye, bass and catfish. The park is also home to Owens Covered Bridge, which is the only covered bridge in Polk County.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many road cycling routes are available in Banner Lakes At Summerset State Park?
There are 5 dedicated road cycling routes in Banner Lakes At Summerset State Park, all rated as easy, making them accessible for a wide range of cyclists.
What is the typical terrain and difficulty for road cycling in this park?
The terrain in Banner Lakes At Summerset State Park is generally flat with gentle grades, following paved former rail lines. This makes for smooth and enjoyable rides, with all routes in the park rated as easy. You'll cycle through picturesque woodlands, wetlands, and farmlands.
Are there options for longer road cycling excursions in the area?
Yes, the park's two-mile paved scenic bike loop connects directly to the 12-mile paved Summerset Trail. From the Summerset Trail, you can further extend your ride by connecting to the 19-mile Great Western Trail, offering significantly longer routes through the region.
What are some popular loop routes for road cycling in the park?
Many cyclists enjoy loop routes that incorporate the Summerset Trail. For example, the Summerset Trail loop from People's Bank is a popular 26.3-mile option, or the Carlisle and Summerset Trail Loop offers a longer 30-mile ride through varied landscapes.
Is Banner Lakes At Summerset State Park suitable for family road cycling?
Yes, the park is very family-friendly for road cycling. The paved trails, generally flat terrain, and easy difficulty ratings make it ideal for cyclists of all ages, including children. The scenic environment provides a pleasant experience for everyone.
Can I bring my dog on the road cycling trails?
The Summerset Trail, which is a key part of the road cycling network in the area, is generally dog-friendly. However, it's always best to check specific park regulations on the official Iowa DNR website for any updates or specific rules regarding pets on trails. You can find more information at iowadnr.gov.
Where can I park when visiting Banner Lakes At Summerset State Park for road cycling?
Parking is available at various access points for the Summerset Trail and within Banner Lakes At Summerset State Park itself. Specific parking areas are usually well-marked at trailheads and park entrances, providing convenient access to the paved cycling routes.
What is the best season for road cycling in Banner Lakes At Summerset State Park?
Spring, summer, and fall generally offer the best conditions for road cycling in the park. Spring brings lush greenery, while fall showcases vibrant foliage. Summer is also popular, but it's advisable to cycle during cooler parts of the day to avoid peak heat.
Are there any permits required for road cycling on the trails?
Generally, no special permits are required for road cycling on the public trails within Banner Lakes At Summerset State Park or the connected Summerset Trail. However, it's always a good practice to check the official Iowa DNR website for any specific regulations or changes.
What kind of wildlife might I see while road cycling in the park?
The park's diverse environment, including woodlands, wetlands, and lakes, supports various wildlife. Cyclists may spot different bird species, deer, and other small mammals. The tranquil spots around the lakes also offer opportunities for nature observation.
Are there any cafes or restaurants near Banner Lakes At Summerset State Park for cyclists?
While the park itself is a natural area, the nearby towns of Indianola and Carlisle, which the Summerset Trail connects, offer various cafes, pubs, and restaurants where cyclists can refuel and relax after their ride.
What are some notable scenic points along the road cycling routes?
The routes wind through picturesque woodlands, wetlands, and farmlands, offering scenic views throughout. The two namesake lakes, formed from former coal mining operations, have erratic shorelines and numerous small coves, providing tranquil spots and scenic vistas.
Most popular routes in Banner Lakes At Summerset State Park
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