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United States

Iowa

Polk County

Des Moines River – Neal Smith Trail loop from Sycamore Wildlife Area

Routes

Bike touring routes & trails

United States

Iowa

Polk County

Des Moines River – Neal Smith Trail loop from Sycamore Wildlife Area

Moderate

3.0

(23)

riders

Des Moines River – Neal Smith Trail loop from Sycamore Wildlife Area

02:25

41.2km

160m

Cycling

Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is right next to a parking lot.

Last updated: May 27, 2026

Waypoints

Start point

Parking

Get Directions

3.33 km

Johnston Interurban Trail

Highlight (Segment) • Trail

The Johnston Interurban Trail is a short asphalt surfaced trail of 1.7 miles. Its southern end begins at Beaver Creek, where the Trestle to Trestle Trail access over the river …

Tip by

16.5 km

Des Moines River

Highlight • River

The Des Moines River is a tributary of the Mississippi River, as well as the largest river in Iowa. Historically, the river has a rich history of culture, tradition, recreation and adventure.

Tip by

22.4 km

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.

Tip by

22.5 km

Neal Smith Trail

Highlight (Segment) • Trail

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.

Tip by

24.6 km

Neal Smith Trail Recreation Area

Nature Reserve

28.6 km

Iowa Women of Achievement Bridge

Highlight (Segment) • Bridge

This iconic bridge spans the Des Moines River, linking the east and west sides of the city at the northern edge of the riverwalk loop. This single-arch pedestrian bridge features …

Tip by

36.7 km

Wakonsa Bridge

Highlight (Segment) • Bridge

At the bridge over the Des Moines River, where the Inter-Urban Trail crosses, you'll find a serene spot perfect for a rest and enjoying the view. Take a break here and soak in the tranquil atmosphere along the riverbank.

Tip by

36.8 km

Bridge Over Des Moines

Highlight • Bridge

At the Bridge over the Des Moines River, where the Inter Urban Trail crosses, you'll find a serene spot perfect for a rest and enjoying the view. Take a break here and soak in the tranquil atmosphere along the riverbank.

Tip by

40.4 km

Trestle-to-Trestle Trail

Highlight (Segment) • Trail

The Trestle to Trestle Trail goes from Des Moines to Johnston. It is a fairly short trail at 3.7 miles long but it is a very good connector trail. It …

Tip by

41.2 km

End point

Parking

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

37.6 km

1.73 km

1.54 km

267 m

< 100 m

Surfaces

23.8 km

16.8 km

305 m

267 m

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

Highest point (300 m)

Lowest point (240 m)

Weather

Today

Saturday 27 June

27°C

18°C

29 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 17.0 km/h

to get more detailed weather forecasts along your route

Comments

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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.

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Des Moines River – Neal Smith Trail loop from Sycamore Wildlife Area

Johnston Interurban Trail

Des Moines River

Des Moines River

Neal Smith Trail

Iowa Women of Achievement Bridge

Wakonsa Bridge

Bridge Over Des Moines

Trestle-to-Trestle Trail

Nearby routes

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