The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Des Moines

There are nearly 30 family-friendly hiking trails around Des Moines, with 18 of them rated as easy, making them perfect for outings with children. These trails offer a variety of experiences, from riverine paths to woodland strolls.

Families can explore a diverse range of landscapes, including scenic riverine and lakeside trails along the Des Moines and Raccoon Rivers, as well as Saylorville Lake and Gray's Lake. You'll also find beautiful oak-hickory woodlands, tallgrass prairies, and even unique sandstone cliffs at places like Ledges State Park.

Yes, many trails in the Des Moines area are designed as loops, offering convenient circular walks for families. For example, the North and South Rim Trail Loop provides an easy, manageable circuit. The Des Moines Creek Trail loop is another great option for a longer, yet still easy, circular hike.

Along the trails, families can discover various points of interest. The iconic High Trestle Trail features a stunning bridge with overlooks. You might also encounter natural areas like the Green River Natural Resources Area or enjoy the views from Point Robinson Lighthouse. Many trails offer opportunities for wildlife spotting, especially in parks like Jester Park with its bison and elk herds.

While specific stroller-friendly trails are not always explicitly marked, many of Des Moines' extensive paved trail systems, such as sections of the Clive Greenbelt Trail or the Gray's Lake Park loop, are suitable for strollers. These trails often provide smooth surfaces and gentle gradients, perfect for families with young children.

Many parks and trails in the Des Moines area are dog-friendly, provided your pet is kept on a leash. It's always a good idea to check specific park regulations before you go, but generally, you'll find plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors with your furry family members.

The duration of family-friendly hikes varies, but many easy routes are designed to be completed within 1 to 2 hours. For instance, the North and South Rim Trail Loop takes approximately 50 minutes, while the Des Moines Pier loop can be completed in about 1 hour and 45 minutes, offering flexible options for different family paces.

Many of Des Moines' larger parks, which host family-friendly trails, often include playgrounds and other facilities. For example, Easter Lake Park, with its 4-mile paved trail, is known to have amenities suitable for families, making it a great destination for a day out with kids.

The Des Moines area is appreciated by the komoot community for its accessible and varied outdoor experiences. Reviewers often praise the well-maintained trails, the scenic beauty of the river and lake views, and the peaceful atmosphere found within the woodlands and prairies, making it a great destination for family adventures.

For additional details on hiking opportunities and park regulations within Polk County, which encompasses much of the Des Moines area, you can visit the official Polk County Conservation website at polkcountyiowa.gov. This resource can provide further logistical information for planning your family's outdoor excursions.