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Des Moines River – Neal Smith Trail loop from Grand View University

Routes

Bike touring routes & trails

Des Moines River – Neal Smith Trail loop from Grand View University

Moderate

5.0

(8720)

16,021

riders

Des Moines River – Neal Smith Trail loop from Grand View University

02:32

43.0km

180m

Cycling

Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is accessible with public transport.

Last updated: June 13, 2026

Waypoints

Start point

Bus stop

Get Directions

8.93 km

Carney Marsh

Nature Reserve

12.2 km

Lake Future

Highlight • Lake

This is a beautiful little lake with a good quality paved trail around it. It may only be 1.2 miles in length but it is a gorgeous spot and it …

Tip by

14.4 km

Oralabor Gateway Trail

Highlight (Segment) • Trail

The Oralabor Gateway Trail is a lovely 5.2 mile concrete-surfaced spur that branches off the Neal Smith Trail. It leaves it just south of Saylorville Lake and runs adjacent to …

Tip by

23.4 km

Des Moines River

Highlight • River

The Des Moines River is a tributary of the Mississippi River, as well as the largest river in Iowa. Historically, the river has a rich history of culture, tradition, recreation and adventure.

Tip by

29.2 km

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.

Tip by

29.6 km

Bridge Over Des Moines

Highlight • Bridge

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.

Tip by

29.9 km

Neal Smith Trail

Highlight (Segment) • Trail

The Neal Smith Trail is a 26-mile trail through Des Moines along the Des Moines River. It is fully paved and traffic free, so it is a great way to move through the heavily populated city.

Tip by

32.0 km

Neal Smith Trail Recreation Area

Nature Reserve

36.1 km

Iowa Women of Achievement Bridge

Highlight (Segment) • Bridge

This iconic bridge spans the Des Moines River, linking the east and west sides of the city at the northern edge of the riverwalk loop. This single-arch pedestrian bridge features …

Tip by

43.0 km

End point

Bus stop

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

32.4 km

7.61 km

2.91 km

101 m

< 100 m

Surfaces

28.6 km

14.0 km

306 m

< 100 m

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

Highest point (290 m)

Lowest point (240 m)

Weather

Today

Saturday 18 July

33°C

22°C

59 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 10.0 km/h

to get more detailed weather forecasts along your route

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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.

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Des Moines River – Neal Smith Trail loop from Grand View University

Lake Future

Oralabor Gateway Trail

Des Moines River

Des Moines River

Bridge Over Des Moines

Neal Smith Trail

Iowa Women of Achievement Bridge

Nearby routes

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