Summerset Trail is a beautiful 12-mile rail-trail stretching from Carlisle to Indianola. The great thing is, this beautiful route is only a few minutes south of Des Moines! The trail is perfect for spotting wildlife and the diversity of Iowa landscapes. It crosses through wetlands, woodlands, and prairie. And you won’t want to miss the scenic lakes along the way. About Summerset … [Read more...] about Summerset Trail: An Enjoyable Rail Trail from Carlisle to Indianola
Trails
Oralabor Gateway Trail: A Vital Link Between Des Moines and Ankeny
The Oralabor Gateway Trail is an excellent trail through Ankeny! It’s also an essential connector between Des Moines and the well-known High Trestle Trail. Also, several Ankeny businesses and restaurants are along the route, so it’s super convenient! The Oralabor Gateway Trail The Oralabor Gateway Trail is a vital trail link between Des Moines and Ankeny. On its west end, it begins at the … [Read more...] about Oralabor Gateway Trail: A Vital Link Between Des Moines and Ankeny
High Trestle Trail: See the Iconic Bridge on this Historic Rail Trail!
The High Trestle Trail features one of the world's tallest and longest pedestrian bridges! It’s a 25-mile rail-trail, and it's right here in Central Iowa! And even if you're not up for the entire trail, it's worth walking to the trestle bridge west of Madrid. Trust us—you won't want to miss this one. A Brief History of the High Trestle Trail The High Trestle Trail is a “Rails to Trails” … [Read more...] about High Trestle Trail: See the Iconic Bridge on this Historic Rail Trail!
Raccoon River Valley Trail: One of Iowa’s Best (and Longest) Trails
The Raccoon River Valley Trail is a fantastic 89-mile paved trail spanning four counties in Central Iowa. It extends through Polk, Dallas, Guthrie, and Greene Counties along a former rail line. From Clive near Des Moines, it stretches northwest to Jefferson, a quintessential Midwest town. Trail users love the amenities in the small communities along the route! A Brief History of the Raccoon … [Read more...] about Raccoon River Valley Trail: One of Iowa’s Best (and Longest) Trails
Chichaqua Valley Trail: A Fun Rail Trail Northeast of Des Moines
Chichaqua Valley Trail is a 26-mile paved trail stretching from Berwick to Baxter. It's a rail trail northeast of Des Moines that extends over farmland, creeks, and the Skunk River. Trail users enjoy the rail history and stopping in the small communities along the route! A Brief History of the Chichaqua Valley Trail Like many other Iowa trails, the Chichaqua Valley Trail (CVT) was once a … [Read more...] about Chichaqua Valley Trail: A Fun Rail Trail Northeast of Des Moines
