The best traffic-free bike rides in Walnut Woods State Park
4.9
(32)
282
riders
13
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Touring cycling in Walnut Woods State Park is characterized by its flat to gently rolling terrain along the Raccoon River. The park features a significant natural stand of black walnut trees, creating a shaded environment for parts of the routes. The landscape includes fertile floodplains and subtle rises, supporting a diverse bottomland hardwood forest ecosystem. While the park's internal trails are primarily for hiking, it serves as a gateway to accessible paved multi-use trails suitable for no traffic touring cycling.
Best no traffic touring cycling routes in Walnut Woods State Park
- The most popular no traffic touring cycling route is Raccoon River Park Trail, a 3.2 miles (5.2 km) trail that takes 19 minutes to complete. This easy route follows the Raccoon River, offering views of the water and surrounding woodlands.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Water Works Park – Raccoon River Park loop from Brown's Woods, an easy 17.6 miles (28.4 km) path. This loop connects multiple parks, providing a varied urban and natural landscape experience.
- Local touring cyclists also love the Bill Riley Trail – Gray's Lake Park loop from Hamlet Apartments, a 15.8 miles (25.5 km) trail leading through urban green spaces and along Gray's Lake, often completed in about 1 hour 27 minutes.
- Touring cycling in Walnut Woods State Park is defined by riverine paths, shaded bottomland forests, and access to extensive paved multi-use trails. The network offers options for different ability levels, from short, easy rides to longer loops.
- The routes in Walnut Woods State Park are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.9 stars from more than 30 reviews. More than 300 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Walnut Woods State Park's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 28, 2026
4
riders
5.21km
00:19
10m
10m
This easy 3.2-mile touring cycling trail in Raccoon River Park winds between Blue Heron Lake and the Raccoon River, taking about 19 minutes.
5.0
(1)
6
riders
28.4km
01:43
100m
100m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(2)
16
riders
27.4km
01:36
60m
60m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
9
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
38
riders
36.8km
02:14
110m
110m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Walnut Woods State Park
Tips from the Community
Colby Park is a large recreational area planted beside a church and tucked into a multi-use paved trail. They have a MASSIVE playground for kiddos, wide open grassy areas, picnic tables and benches, and a stage for live music. It seemed busy in the evening when we were there.
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There’s a group called BCycle Bike Share (owned by Bicycle Transit Systems). They have these stations along the trail (Clive Greenbelt) that allow you to rent traditional or electronic bikes. It’s managed on a free app, where you can purchase by the minute, hour, or opt for an annual pass. The whole process was smooth sailing. The bikes (while needing some tune ups — like the front break, for instance) were decent road bikes and fun for the family to try something new! We went over the hour we booked them for, and they only charged us for the time we used instead of clocking a full second hour, which was very generous. They seem to be a hit around here, as they have several locations and all have bikes that are out. Unfortunately, as far as iowa goes, this is the only city they’re in. I’d love to see them other places along trails — in some of our rural areas. I think their presence could teach kids about alternative transportation and open doors by giving them an experience they won’t have otherwise.
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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.
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Greenwood Park Lagoon is a small, 2.3-acre pond within Greenwood Park and was one of the first urban wetland projects in the country. Adjacent to this historic pond is a large outdoor amphitheater that is a popular spot to rest and relax while exploring the area.
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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.
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The Des Moines Art Center was established in 1948 and began with a mission to enrich lives through the power of art. Today, the museum still offers over 5,000 works of art in their exhibitions, collections, and educational programs for visitors of all ages and backgrounds. Some of the artists featured here are Edward Hopper, Georgia O'Keeffe, Andy Warhol, and many more. The Des Moines Art Center is closed on Monday; Wednesdays are open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; and weekends are open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
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Denman's Woods have scenic multi-use trails through lush forests and streams and are home to diverse wildlife habitats. This area is a peaceful getaway for bikers and hikers. During the warm summer months, the shade and foliage area are a nice place to be. The Walnut Creek Trail and the Levee Trail border Denman's Woods as well.
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Water Works Park is open daily from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. and spans 1,500 acres. It is managed by Water Works, a publicly owned municipal water utility serving the greater Des Moines metropolitan area. It ranks among the largest urban parks in the United States, features a beer garden, and is dog-friendly.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic touring cycling routes are available in Walnut Woods State Park?
There are 18 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes available in and around Walnut Woods State Park. Most of these, 15 to be exact, are rated as easy, making them accessible for a wide range of cyclists.
What kind of surfaces can I expect on the no-traffic touring cycling routes?
While the internal trails within Walnut Woods State Park are primarily for hiking, the nearby multi-use trails, such as the Great Western Trail, are paved and ideal for touring cyclists. These external routes offer smooth surfaces suitable for road and touring bikes, ensuring a comfortable, car-free experience.
Are there any family-friendly no-traffic touring cycling routes?
Yes, many of the routes are suitable for families. For instance, the Raccoon River Park Trail is an easy option, offering a pleasant 5.2 km ride. The overall area features 15 easy routes, perfect for cyclists of all ages and skill levels.
Can I bring my dog on the no-traffic touring cycling routes?
Walnut Woods State Park and many of the surrounding multi-use trails generally welcome dogs, provided they are kept on a leash. Always check specific trail regulations before you go to ensure a pleasant experience for everyone.
What are the best times of year to go touring cycling in Walnut Woods State Park?
Spring and fall are particularly beautiful for touring cycling in Walnut Woods State Park. Spring brings an abundance of wildflowers, and the bottomland hardwood forest, including the largest natural stand of black walnut trees, offers stunning foliage in autumn. Birdwatching is also excellent during these seasons, with over 90 species identified.
Where can I park my car when accessing the no-traffic cycling routes?
Walnut Woods State Park offers year-round parking facilities, including shaded picnic areas. For routes like the Great Western Trail, which is about 3 miles from the park, there are often designated parking areas at trailheads. The park itself serves as an excellent base with convenient access to external paved routes.
Are there any scenic viewpoints or natural landmarks along the routes?
The routes offer views of the Raccoon River, which meanders along the park's edge, and the unique 'cathedral-like canopy' formed by the ancient black walnut trees. The park is also home to diverse ecosystems, including wetlands and riparian habitats, providing opportunities to spot over 90 species of birds, especially near the bird observation station.
Are there any circular no-traffic touring cycling routes?
Yes, there are several circular routes designed for touring cyclists. An example is the Water Works Park – Raccoon River Park loop from Brown's Woods, which offers a substantial 28.3 km ride, allowing you to experience diverse landscapes without retracing your steps.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in this area?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars. Reviewers often praise the peaceful, car-free environment of the multi-use trails, the natural beauty of the Raccoon River and the black walnut trees, and the accessibility of the easy routes for all skill levels.
Are there any cafes or restaurants near the cycling routes?
While Walnut Woods State Park itself offers picnic areas, you'll find various cafes, pubs, and restaurants in nearby West Des Moines. These establishments are typically a short ride or drive from the park and trail access points, providing options for refreshments before or after your ride.
What should I do if I encounter flooding on the Raccoon River trails?
The Raccoon River gracefully meanders along the park's edge, and its floodplains support a vibrant ecosystem. However, during periods of heavy rain, some sections of trails near the river may be subject to flooding. Always check local conditions and weather advisories before heading out, and be prepared to adjust your route if necessary for safety.
Is public transport available to Walnut Woods State Park or nearby trailheads?
Public transport options to Walnut Woods State Park itself may be limited. However, the park's proximity to West Des Moines means that local bus services might connect to areas within a reasonable distance. For specific routes like the Great Western Trail, it's advisable to check local transit schedules for stops near trail access points.
Most popular routes in Walnut Woods State Park
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