Colby Park BCycle Bike Share Station

This touring cycling loop from Glen Eagles Park takes you through the heart of Des Moines' green spaces, offering a delightful blend of urban parkland and natural landscapes. You'll cruise along the paved Kruidenier Trail around Gray's Lake, enjoying continuous lake views and the striking Chris and Marcie Coleman Bridge, before exploring the vast open wooded areas and wetlands of Water Works Park, bordered by the Raccoon River. It's a moderate 25.1-mile (40.5 km) ride with a gentle 382 feet (116 metres) of elevation gain, making it a perfect outing for a couple of hours.

Connecting from Glen Eagles Park, you'll find Des Moines' extensive network of multi-use paved trails and bike lanes makes reaching the main loop straightforward. Both Gray's Lake and Water Works Park offer convenient amenities like picnic spots, and Gray's Lake even has boat rentals and concessions. The route is best enjoyed during the spring, summer, and fall when the weather is mild, allowing for a comfortable 2 hours and 26 minutes of cycling.

This route is a fantastic example of Des Moines' commitment to interconnected trails, linking two of its most significant parks. Water Works Park, one of the largest urban parks in the United States, provides a tranquil escape with its nearly 1,500 acres, while Gray's Lake offers a vibrant recreational hub with its iconic bridge and city skyline views. It's an easy touring cycling option that showcases the city's natural beauty and accessibility.

If you're seeking a pleasant and accessible touring cycling experience in Des Moines, the Gray's Lake beach – Walnut Creek Trail loop is an excellent choice. This easy 14.7-mile (23.7 km) route guides you from the scenic waters of Gray's Lake, complete with its iconic boardwalk, into the tranquil, shaded woodlands bordering Walnut Creek. The entire journey is on flat, paved multi-use paths, making it a smooth ride for cyclists of all abilities and a great way to enjoy the city's natural beauty.

Planning your ride is straightforward, as the trails are well-integrated into Des Moines' extensive network. You'll find ample parking near Gray's Lake, and the route is enjoyable throughout the day, with the Walnut Creek sections offering welcome shade during warmer months. The Gray's Lake portion is also well-lit at night, providing a unique evening cycling experience, and features emergency phones for peace of mind.

This loop is a fantastic example of Des Moines' commitment to urban greenways, connecting you to the broader trail system and offering glimpses of local wildlife along Walnut Creek. It's a perfect option for a relaxed outing, whether you're looking for a quick spin or a starting point to explore further connections like the Clive Greenbelt Trail. The diverse scenery, from urban lake views to peaceful creek-side paths, makes it a standout among the city's easy cycling trails.