The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Walnut Woods State Park

The Raccoon River Park loop from Walnut Woods State Park offers a delightful and easy escape into nature, connecting two popular green spaces. You'll enjoy a gentle stroll on well-maintained paths, likely a mix of paved and gravel, that meander through parkland. This route is perfect for those seeking a relaxing experience, perhaps with views of the Raccoon River or through pleasant wooded sections, providing a refreshing break from city life.

Planning your visit is simple, with convenient parking available at both Walnut Woods State Park and Raccoon River Park. Given its easy difficulty and family-friendly nature, it's a popular choice, so consider an earlier start on busy days. The trail is accessible throughout the year, offering different charms with each season, from lush summer greenery to crisp autumn colors.

This loop is a fantastic option for family friendly hiking, dog friendly trails, or simply a quick, accessible outing. Its minimal 34 feet (10 metres) of elevation gain over 3.3 miles (5.2 km) means you can complete it in about 1 hour and 19 minutes, making it an excellent choice for beginners or anyone looking for a low-impact way to enjoy the outdoors near West Des Moines.

The Denmans Mountain Bike Trail offers a delightful and accessible hiking experience through a natural, wooded environment in West Des Moines. You'll find yourself on a winding dirt singletrack, often referred to as Denman's Woods, that meanders along the Walnut Creek floodplain. Expect a generally flat path, though you might encounter small obstacles like roots and logs, with some sandy sections depending on recent rainfall, all contributing to its easy rating.

This trail is particularly well-suited for beginners and families looking for a relaxed outdoor activity, and it's a popular spot where dogs are welcome. With its easy difficulty and minimal 31 feet (10 metres) of elevation gain over 4.2 miles (6.8 km), it's a comfortable hike that typically takes around 1 hour and 43 minutes. Consider visiting during off-peak hours for a more tranquil experience, though its accessibility makes it enjoyable at any time.

What makes the Denmans Mountain Bike Trail stand out is its reputation as an ideal spot for introducing new people to hiking or trail running. Its relatively flat profile and well-maintained path make it a forgiving route, ensuring a pleasant outing for all skill levels. Located in West Des Moines, Iowa, it provides a convenient and enjoyable escape into nature without requiring extensive planning or advanced hiking experience.

Step into a unique blend of art and nature on the Des Moines Art Center loop, an easy 4.6-mile (7.5 km) hike that winds through an urban forest. You'll navigate singletrack paths, encountering old-growth tree roots and gentle climbs, particularly on segments like "Hillside." The route offers a refreshing escape, with the added bonus of discovering sculptures integrated into the natural landscape around the Art Center and Greenwood Park.

Planning your visit is straightforward, with parking available at the Des Moines Art Center. While you won't find restrooms directly on the trail, Ashworth Pool offers a water fountain during summer months. Before heading out, it's wise to check the Central Iowa Trail Association for current trail conditions, especially after rain, as parts of the trail system can become muddy and close.

This trail stands out for its seamless integration of cultural and natural experiences, making it a hidden gem in the Des Moines area. It's part of a much larger network of over 800 miles of connected trails in the region, all meticulously maintained by the Central Iowa Trail Association. With only 160 feet (49 metres) of elevation gain and an estimated duration of 1 hours and 56 minutes, it’s a perfect family-friendly option for an easy outing.

Hike the easy 3.5-mile Colby Woods Trail in Walker Johnston Park, a paved route through woods and alongside a creek, perfect for families.