The best walks and hikes in Ankeny National Wildlife Refuge

No, to protect the wildlife and their habitats, pets are not permitted within the refuge. This rule helps minimize disturbance to the thousands of migratory birds and other animals that rely on this area.

The refuge is a birdwatcher's paradise, especially from October to March when it serves as a critical stop on the Pacific Flyway. During these months, you can see thousands of wintering waterfowl, including dusky Canada geese, northern pintails, and American wigeons. The rest of the year still offers great sightings of songbirds, raptors, and marsh birds.

Yes, the refuge is well-suited for families and beginners. A great option is the Ankeny Hill Nature Center loop. It's a short, accessible trail under a mile long that features a pollinator garden and a nature explore area for children, making it both educational and fun.

Many of the main trails and boardwalks are open all year for hiking and wildlife observation. This includes the popular Rail Trail and the Pintail & Egret Marsh boardwalk. However, be aware that some dike trails have seasonal closures, typically from October 1 to March 31, to protect wintering waterfowl.

Yes, the refuge features several loop trails. For a rewarding circular walk with great views across marshlands, consider the Dunlin Pond Loop. This easy 2.2-mile (3.6 km) path is perfect for a relaxed hike focused on wildlife spotting.

While birds are the main attraction, you can also spot other wildlife. Deer are frequently seen, especially during the early morning or late afternoon. The wetlands and woodlands also provide habitat for various small mammals, amphibians, and insects like dragonflies.

Absolutely. The refuge offers numerous opportunities for stunning nature and wildlife photography. The boardwalks on the Rail Trail and Pintail-Egret Marsh Trail provide up-close views of wetland scenes. For expansive views and opportunities to capture birds in flight, head to the observation blinds and overlooks like the Pintail Marsh Overlook or the year-round Ankeny Hill Overlook.

There is no entrance fee to visit Ankeny National Wildlife Refuge. Parking is also free in the designated lots near the trailheads and the Ankeny Hill Nature Center. Arriving early is recommended on weekends, as it's a popular spot for locals.

Some trails are designed to be accessible. The Eagle Marsh Trail is a wheelchair-friendly path, and the trails around the Ankeny Hill Nature Center, which opened in 2022, are also built to be accessible, providing opportunities for all visitors to enjoy the refuge.

Hiking here is defined by the unique combination of landscapes. You'll walk through extensive seasonal wetlands on boardwalks, across open native grass prairies, and under the canopy of shaded woodlands. A distinctive feature is the integration of farming, with croplands managed to provide food for wintering geese, offering a different kind of scenery.

The guide features 5 curated routes that showcase the best of the area's diverse habitats. The refuge itself has a network of trails and boardwalks of varying lengths, including the Rail Trail, Pintail-Egret Marsh Trail, and Eagle Marsh Trail, providing plenty of options for exploration.

Most trails in the refuge are flat and easy, designed for wildlife observation. For a longer walk that explores the varied habitats, the Ankeny National Wildlife Refuge — Jefferson route is a moderate 5.2-mile (8.3 km) option. For more challenging terrain, you might consider visiting nearby areas like Silver Falls State Park.