The best running trails around West Des Moines

West Des Moines offers a wide selection of running routes, with over 80 trails available for you to explore. These routes cater to various fitness levels, from easy jogs to more challenging runs.

You'll find a diverse range of terrain, including extensive paved paths, crushed rock sections, and natural surfaces. Many routes wind through heavily wooded greenbelts, along creeks, or through urban forests with rolling hills, offering varied experiences for every runner.

Yes, West Des Moines has several easy running routes perfect for beginners. There are 6 routes classified as easy, many of which are paved and relatively flat, providing a comfortable introduction to the area's trail network.

Absolutely. For those seeking longer distances and more challenging runs, West Des Moines offers 16 routes classified as difficult. A great option is the Walnut Creek Trail loop from Clive, which spans 13.4 miles (21.6 km) through a heavily wooded environment. Another challenging option is the Des Moines Art Center – Gray's Lake Park loop from Des Moines Art Center, covering over 9 miles (15.2 km).

The running routes in West Des Moines are highly regarded by the komoot community, boasting an average rating of 4.6 stars from over 5 reviews. Runners frequently praise the serene, natural experiences, abundant wildlife, and the variety of landscapes, from quiet woodlands to scenic creek-side paths.

Yes, many trails offer significant shade, which is particularly welcome during warmer months. The Clive Greenbelt Trail, for instance, meanders through a heavily wooded environment along Walnut Creek. Similarly, approximately half of the 3.2-mile loop around Blue Heron Lake in Raccoon River Park is shaded, and Brown's Woods offers runs through mature oak and hickory trees.

Loop trails are a popular feature in West Des Moines. Many routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Running loop from Walnut Woods State Park and the Running loop from Brown's Woods, both offering convenient circular paths.

West Des Moines offers several family-friendly options, especially on its extensive paved trail network. Raccoon River Park, with its 3.2-mile loop around Blue Heron Lake, is a great choice, featuring both paved and crushed rock sections and amenities like a beach and nature lodge. The Jordan Creek Trail also provides accessible, paved sections suitable for families.

Many trails in West Des Moines are dog-friendly, making it a great place to run with your canine companion. The Clive Greenbelt Trail is popular with dog walkers, and Raccoon River Park even features a dedicated dog park, with its trails generally welcoming leashed dogs. Always check local signage for specific regulations.

You'll encounter several interesting sights. The Des Moines Art Center – Gray's Lake Park loop takes you past the Des Moines Art Center and around Gray's Lake Park. Other notable natural features include Brown's Woods, Iowa's largest urban forest, and the scenic Jordan Creek Trail which follows the eponymous creek.

Yes, West Des Moines is known for its interconnected trail systems. The Jordan Creek Trail serves as a central artery, linking to other trails and amenities. The Clive Greenbelt Trail also connects to other trail systems in adjacent communities like Waukee, Urbandale, and Des Moines, contributing to over 550 miles of trails in the broader region for extended runs.

Absolutely. The Running loop from Walnut Woods State Park is noted for offering a serene, natural experience with abundant wildlife. Brown's Woods, as Iowa's largest urban forest, is also a significant stopover for migratory birds, making it an excellent spot for nature observation while jogging.