The best traffic-free bike rides around Des Moines
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(11)
1,067
riders
18
rides
No traffic road cycling routes around Des Moines traverse a landscape characterized by extensive paved trail networks, river valleys, and numerous lakes. The region features a mix of urban greenbelts, open prairies, and mature woodlands, offering varied scenery for cyclists. Terrain is generally flat to gently rolling, with some routes incorporating former railway beds. This environment supports a wide range of cycling experiences on dedicated car-free paths.
Best no traffic road cycling routes around Des Moines
- The most popular no…
Last updated: May 28, 2026
59
riders
66.9km
02:41
250m
250m
Cycle the moderate 41.6-mile Great Western Trail, gaining 833 feet in 2h 40m, passing Gray's Lake Park in Des Moines, Iowa.
29
riders
97.8km
04:16
350m
350m
Road cycling the Chichaqua Valley Trail offers a moderate 60.8-mile ride through diverse Iowa landscapes, ideal for family cycling.
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4
riders
82.1km
04:41
390m
380m
Cycle the Neal Smith and High Trestle Trail Loop, a 51-mile paved route through Iowa's scenic landscapes, featuring the iconic High Trestle
5.0
(1)
36
riders
41.4km
02:05
150m
150m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
32
riders
17.7km
02:35
40m
40m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Popular around Des Moines
Tips from the Community
One of my favorite state parks even if they don’t care about cyclists as much as boaters. Ride the road not the neglected bike trail.
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Martensdale is a quiet, small town nestled along the Middle River, offering a peaceful escape just outside Des Moines. With its connection to the Great Western Trail, it is an excellent destination for a scenic ride through the countryside.
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The Bill Riley Trail is a 2.7-mile paved pathway that winds through wooded areas, including Ashworth Park, and crosses the Raccoon River via a rustic trestle bridge. The trail is named after Bill Riley, a member of the Des Moines Park Board who played a significant role in raising funds for the city's trail system. It is popular among cyclists, walkers, and runners, and although dogs are welcome, they must be kept on a leash. Parking is available near the Ashworth Memorial Pool in Ashworth Park, and in Gray's Lake Park.
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The Saylorville Lake Visitor Center is located at the southeast corner of the lake and offers a variety of scheduled events, a theater, several interactive displays, and a selection of maps. A butterfly garden is also a short walk away.
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Water Works Park is open daily from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. and spans 1,500 acres. It is managed by Water Works, a publicly owned municipal water utility serving the greater Des Moines metropolitan area. It ranks among the largest urban parks in the United States, features a beer garden, and is dog-friendly.
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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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Pause your ride at Saylorville Dam for scenic views. This dam on the Des Moines River in Iowa is only 11 miles upstream from Des Moines, offering a great place to hop off your bike and take a break!
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic road cycling routes are available around Des Moines?
Our guide features over a dozen dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes around Des Moines, offering a variety of distances and scenic experiences for cyclists looking for car-free adventures.
Are there easy, family-friendly no-traffic road cycling routes in Des Moines?
Yes, Des Moines offers several easy, family-friendly options for no-traffic road cycling. For instance, the Bridge Over Des Moines – Trestle to Trestle Trail loop from Drake University is an excellent choice, providing a manageable distance and a pleasant ride suitable for most skill levels.
What are some scenic no-traffic road cycling routes with viewpoints in Des Moines?
Many routes offer scenic viewpoints. The Neal Smith and High Trestle Trail Loop incorporates the iconic High Trestle Trail, known for its stunning 13-story bridge with panoramic views of the Des Moines River Valley. The Neal Smith Trail itself also offers diverse scenery including wildflower meadows and views of Saylorville Lake.
Where can I find parking for no-traffic bike routes in Des Moines?
Parking availability varies by trail. Many popular trailheads, such as those for the High Trestle Trail, Neal Smith Trail, and Great Western Trail, offer designated parking areas. For example, the Saylorville Lake Visitor Center is a good starting point for sections of the Neal Smith Trail with parking facilities.
What can I see along the no-traffic road cycling routes in Des Moines?
Along these routes, you can encounter a mix of natural beauty and local landmarks. The Neal Smith Trail offers views of Saylorville Lake and diverse ecosystems. You might also pass by the Iowa Women of Achievement Bridge or explore areas like Brown's Woods, depending on your chosen route.
Are there any longer, more challenging no-traffic road cycling routes for experienced riders?
Yes, for experienced riders seeking a longer challenge, the Neal Smith Trail – Des Moines River loop from Des Moines is a difficult-rated route covering over 80 kilometers with significant elevation gain, providing a demanding yet rewarding experience.
What is the best time of year for no-traffic road cycling in Des Moines?
The spring, summer, and fall months generally offer the best conditions for road cycling in Des Moines. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, while fall provides vibrant foliage. Summers are warm, but many trails, like parts of the High Trestle Trail, offer shaded sections. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.
What do other road cyclists enjoy most about no-traffic road cycling in Des Moines?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars from 15 ratings. Reviewers often praise the extensive network of well-maintained, car-free paved trails that allow for peaceful and scenic rides through diverse landscapes, from urban riverfronts to expansive natural areas.
Are there any loop or circular no-traffic road cycling routes in the Des Moines area?
Yes, several routes offer a circular experience. The Neal Smith and High Trestle Trail Loop is a great example, allowing you to start and end at the same point after exploring two major trails. The Raccoon River Valley Trail, while not in this guide, is also a well-known extensive loop in the wider Des Moines area.
Which no-traffic road cycling routes are built on former railway beds?
Several popular no-traffic road cycling routes in Des Moines are built on former railway beds, offering flat and well-maintained surfaces. The Great Western Trail and the Chichaqua Valley Trail are prime examples, providing smooth rides through varied landscapes.
Can I access these no-traffic routes using public transport?
While many trails are accessible by car, public transport options to specific trailheads can be limited. It's best to check the Des Moines Area Regional Transit Authority (DART) routes and schedules for potential connections to areas near the trails, though direct access might require a short ride or walk from a bus stop.
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