The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Warren County

The Denmans Mountain Bike Trail offers a delightful and accessible hiking experience through a natural, wooded environment in West Des Moines. You'll find yourself on a winding dirt singletrack, often referred to as Denman's Woods, that meanders along the Walnut Creek floodplain. Expect a generally flat path, though you might encounter small obstacles like roots and logs, with some sandy sections depending on recent rainfall, all contributing to its easy rating.

This trail is particularly well-suited for beginners and families looking for a relaxed outdoor activity, and it's a popular spot where dogs are welcome. With its easy difficulty and minimal 31 feet (10 metres) of elevation gain over 4.2 miles (6.8 km), it's a comfortable hike that typically takes around 1 hour and 43 minutes. Consider visiting during off-peak hours for a more tranquil experience, though its accessibility makes it enjoyable at any time.

What makes the Denmans Mountain Bike Trail stand out is its reputation as an ideal spot for introducing new people to hiking or trail running. Its relatively flat profile and well-maintained path make it a forgiving route, ensuring a pleasant outing for all skill levels. Located in West Des Moines, Iowa, it provides a convenient and enjoyable escape into nature without requiring extensive planning or advanced hiking experience.

The Mark C. Ackelson Trail offers a delightful, easy loop around Easter Lake, providing picturesque views of the water and surrounding woodlands. You'll enjoy a smooth journey on a 12-foot-wide paved concrete path, passing over charming walking bridges and spotting local wildlife. The highlight is undoubtedly Owen's Covered Bridge, a historic structure that adds a unique touch to the scenery.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trail is located within Easter Lake Park in Des Moines with ample parking. This multi-use path is popular, so consider an early start to enjoy a more serene experience. It's a fantastic option for a quick, accessible outing, taking about 1 hour and 44 minutes to complete the 4.2-mile (6.8 km) route with a minimal 63 feet (19 metres) of elevation gain.

This trail is named in honor of Mark C. Ackelson, a key figure in Iowa's trail development, and is part of a larger park area that was once a coal mine, now beautifully restored into a recreational space. Its easy difficulty makes it ideal for families, beginners, or anyone seeking a relaxing stroll, and it connects to other regional trails, enhancing its value as a community asset.

The Bill Riley Trail and Greenwood Park Loop offers a unique blend of urban park and deep woods hiking right in Des Moines. You'll start on smooth, paved paths, enjoying views of the Raccoon River and crossing a rustic trestle bridge, before diving into the natural singletrack of Greenwood Park. Here, the trail becomes more rugged, winding through sun-dappled wooded areas with old-growth trees, uneven surfaces, and notable climbs and descents that give it a genuine wilderness feel.

This moderate 7.7-mile (12.3 km) route, with 172 feet (53 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 3 hours and 9 minutes. While the paved sections are always accessible, the natural trails can be muddy in early spring, so plan accordingly. There are no permits or fees, and parking is usually available, making it an easy-to-access option for a varied outdoor experience.

Named after local radio personality Bill Riley, this trail system is one of Des Moines' oldest and most important, connecting to several other major trails. It's a fantastic example of how a city can offer a true escape into nature, providing opportunities for birding and wildlife viewing within its limits. The loop delivers a diverse and engaging experience for those seeking a bit of a challenge.