The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Margo Frankel Woods State Park
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Family friendly hiking trails in Margo Frankel Woods State Park traverse 136 acres characterized by heavily timbered ravines and dense oak-hickory forests, providing ample shade. The landscape features gentle slopes, sections with steeper inclines, and a seasonal creek. Certain routes offer views of the Des Moines River and Riverview Lake. The park's trails are primarily gravel and dirt, suitable for various ability levels.
Best family friendly hiking trails in Margo Frankel Woods State Park
- The most popular family friendly hiking…
Last updated: May 30, 2026
757m
00:12
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0m
The Gay Lea Wilson Trail offers an easy hiking experience, perfect for a quick outdoor escape. You will find a paved path that winds through a mix of urban and…
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hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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7.64km
01:57
20m
50m
Embark on an easy hike along the Neal Smith Trail to Birdland Park, a pleasant 4.7 miles (7.6 km) route that takes about 1 hour and 57 minutes to complete.…
15.3km
03:56
60m
60m
Hike the moderate 9.5-mile Neal Smith Trail through diverse landscapes, offering river valley views, woodlands, and a butterfly garden.
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hikers
7.74km
02:02
60m
60m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Walking up to the Iowa State Capitol is a fun way to add a bit of elevation to your urban hike. The grounds are open and walkable, with paths leading around the building and great views over downtown Des Moines.
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Carney Marsh is a small wetland area with gravel and dirt paths looping through prairie grasses and around the marsh. It’s a good spot to take a break, spot some birds, and enjoy a short detour off nearby roads or trails.
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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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Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden is located in the center of Des Moines and has a size of about 17 acres. It includes a Café and multiple gardens where young and old can learn about endemic plants and flowers.
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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.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available in Margo Frankel Woods State Park?
Margo Frankel Woods State Park offers several family-friendly hiking options. Our guide features three easy routes, perfect for families looking to explore the park's natural beauty.
What kind of terrain can we expect on the trails in Margo Frankel Woods State Park?
The trails in Margo Frankel Woods State Park are primarily gravel and dirt, winding through lush oak-hickory forests. You'll encounter gentle slopes, but also sections with steeper inclines and wooden steps, offering a varied experience for families. The dense tree cover provides ample shade, making for a pleasant hike.
Are there any specific trails suitable for families with young children or strollers?
While many trails are dirt and gravel, some sections may be suitable for all-terrain strollers. For a generally easy experience, consider the Gay Lea Wilson Trail, which is just under a mile long and features minimal elevation gain. The park's overall network is designed to be accessible for various ability levels.
What are some points of interest or attractions for children along the trails?
Margo Frankel Woods State Park is very family-oriented. Beyond the natural beauty, the park features two playgrounds: one near the main entrance and a 'secret playground' accessible via a large staircase from the trails. A shallow, seasonal stream also provides a fun area for children to play off-trail, build forts, or make dams.
Can we bring our dog on the family-friendly trails?
Yes, Margo Frankel Woods State Park is generally dog-friendly. Many trails are suitable for dogs, but always ensure your pet is on a leash and that you clean up after them to maintain a pleasant environment for all visitors.
What are the parking options for families visiting Margo Frankel Woods State Park?
The park offers well-maintained parking areas, making it convenient for families to access the trails. There is typically parking available near the main entrance, which also provides easy access to one of the playgrounds.
What is the best time of year to visit Margo Frankel Woods State Park with family?
The park is beautiful year-round, but spring and fall offer particularly pleasant hiking conditions with mild temperatures and vibrant foliage. The dense oak-hickory forests provide abundant shade, making it enjoyable even on warmer days.
Are there any trails that offer scenic views of the Des Moines River or Riverview Lake?
Yes, the Des Moines River – Riverview Lake & Park loop from Perry and Brainard Block is a 2.7-mile trail that offers scenic views of both the Des Moines River and Riverview Lake, providing a lovely backdrop for your family hike.
What do other hikers enjoy most about Margo Frankel Woods State Park?
The komoot community rates Margo Frankel Woods State Park highly, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the park's serene escape into nature, the abundant shade from the dense forests, and the family-friendly amenities like playgrounds and the seasonal stream for children to explore.
Are there any longer family-friendly routes that connect to other areas?
Yes, some of the park's trails can connect to broader networks. For example, the Neal Smith Trail to Birdland Park offers a longer, easy hike of about 4.7 miles, extending your family's adventure beyond the immediate park boundaries.
What kind of wildlife can families expect to see?
The dense woods and natural setting of Margo Frankel Woods State Park offer opportunities for birdwatching and spotting local wildlife. Deer trails are noted within the park, and with a bit of quiet observation, families might catch glimpses of various animals in their natural habitat.
Most popular routes in Margo Frankel Woods State Park
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