The best road cycling routes around Dallas Center
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If you’ve ever tried to plan road cycling around Dallas Center, you know how quickly the options can feel overwhelming. With so many trails crisscrossing the landscape, it’s tough to figure out which routes are genuinely worth your time and effort, and which are just filler. We get it, and we’re here to cut through the noise. Our komoot community has ridden, mapped, and reviewed these routes, so consider this your curated shortlist of the best road cycling experiences in…
Last updated: June 1, 2026
66
riders
62.1km
03:09
90m
90m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
13
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5
riders
64.7km
02:38
230m
230m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5
riders
88.5km
04:29
270m
270m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Popular around Dallas Center
Tips from the Community
Perry’s trailhead is cute, welcoming, and functional from its one-legged candycane arch to the massive car lot (48-hour parking! Woo!). Porta potty’s, upgraded water fountains, colored lawn chairs, food trucks, and a bike maintenance stand/tools are available. The trail itself splinters off in several directions. One part toward Jefferson/Dawson/Jamaica/Redfield, another toward Woodward/Ankeny, and a third section toward Dallas center/adel/waukee. The trail winds through town in a very intentional sort of way, hitting several parks, restaurants, the hospital, and showing off some of Perry’s more interesting qualities.
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The Principal Riverwalk is a smooth, scenic pathway along the Des Moines River, perfect if you're looking to explore downtown. Its well-paved paths and pedestrian bridges connect key districts, making it an excellent route for both casual spins and fast-paced rides. The city views and riverside breeze make it a great place to stretch your legs on two wheels.
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As you make your way over the bridge you will catch views of the Raccoon River, a tributary of the Des Moines River. Stretching over 30.8 miles, this river winds through an area of intense cultivation, including croplands and livestock farming. Since the 19th century, the Des Moines metropolitan area has relied on this river for drinking water, although it faced challenges during the Great Flood of 1993.
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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.
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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.
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This section of the Neal Smith Trail skirts right along the river. It's very quiet and a nice ride. With no traffic to worry about, it's an ideal place to escape the city!
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Check out the revamped Riverview Park. Once an amusement park, it's now a municipal park with a playground and permanent bandstand. Despite delays due to COVID-19, the project was completed in fall 2020.
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Gray's Lake Park has a total size of 166-acres and is located in the heart of Des Moines. The lake of the same name is the park's main feature and is surrounded by a path for cycling and hiking. One of the highlights is the bridge that crosses the lake, as it can be illuminated in the evening and nighttime.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many road cycling routes are available around Dallas Center?
There are 6 road cycling routes around Dallas Center, offering various options for exploration on komoot.
What is the typical terrain and difficulty level for road cycling routes in Dallas Center?
Road cycling routes around Dallas Center are predominantly flat with gentle grades, primarily utilizing the asphalt and concrete pathways of the Raccoon River Valley Trail. Most routes are rated as moderate, with some easy options available, making them accessible for a range of cyclists.
Are there any family-friendly road cycling routes in Dallas Center?
Yes, the generally flat and well-maintained surfaces of the Raccoon River Valley Trail make many sections suitable for families. An easy option is the Walnut Creek Trail loop from Waukee, which is 26.5 miles long and leads through open prairies and farmlands.
What natural features or landmarks can I expect to see along the road cycling routes?
You'll experience diverse scenery including serene prairies, farmlands, wetlands, and occasional tree canopies. The Raccoon River Valley Trail: Minburn to Dallas Center section offers classic views of the Iowa landscape. Just south of Dallas Center, the Brenton Arboretum provides a beautiful natural backdrop with over 2,500 labeled trees and shrubs, prairies, and streams.
Where can I park my car when starting a road cycling route in Dallas Center?
The Dallas Center Trailhead in Heritage Park (14th Street and Walnut Street) is a key access point for the Raccoon River Valley Trail and offers dedicated parking facilities. This trailhead is well-equipped with amenities for cyclists.
Are there any long-distance road cycling routes available from Dallas Center?
Yes, the Raccoon River Valley Trail itself is an extensive 89-mile trail. For a longer ride, consider the Perry Trailhead – Perry Trail Head loop from Waukee, which is 38.6 miles (62.1 km) and connects to the Raccoon River Valley Trail, offering consistent surfaces for an extended ride.
What is the best time of year for road cycling in Dallas Center?
The Raccoon River Valley Trail is well-maintained and suitable for cycling through much of the year. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, while summer provides lush green landscapes, though it can be warmer. The heated restrooms at the Dallas Center Trailhead are open year-round.
Are there any loop road cycling routes around Dallas Center?
Yes, many routes are designed as loops. For example, the Raccoon River – Gray's Lake Park loop from Waukee is a moderate 40.9-mile path that provides diverse scenery, including views of the Raccoon River and connections to urban parks.
Where can I find food and drinks near the cycling trails in Dallas Center?
Dallas Center offers several convenient options. The Handlebar, located directly off the bike trail, provides bike parking, outdoor seating, and serves local brews, pizza, and burgers. Five Points Bar and Grill is another option just off the trail for food and drinks. The nearby town of Minburn also has dining options.
What makes the Raccoon River Valley Trail a good choice for road cyclists?
The Raccoon River Valley Trail is ideal for road cyclists due to its 89 miles of smooth asphalt and concrete pathways, mostly flat terrain with gentle grades, and diverse scenery. It connects Dallas Center to other communities like Waukee and Minburn, offering varied ride options and well-equipped trailheads like the one in Dallas Center.
Can I connect to other trails from the Raccoon River Valley Trail near Dallas Center?
Yes, the Raccoon River Valley Trail is continuously enhancing its connectivity. There are ongoing projects to link it with other major trails, such as a new section connecting to the High Trestle Trail, expanding your cycling possibilities in the region.
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