- Prime pursuits: Biking High Trestle Trail (5/5), kayaking Raccoon River, and hiking Jester Park.
- Best time: April to October for mild weather.
- Budget: $150-250 daily, including lodging at $117 average nightly.
- Jump to top activities | Jump to lodging | Jump to FAQ
Key Takeaways
Premier Outdoor Activities and Sightseeing in Des Moines with Ratings
As a local who’s logged hundreds of miles on these paths, the best outdoor pursuits revolve around Des Moines’ extensive trail network and waterways.
Start with the Des Moines River Trail, a 30+ mile paved path perfect for biking or strolling, rated 4.8/5 by visitors for its river views and connectivity to downtown. I once spent a full morning here, spotting herons and connecting seamlessly to Gray’s Lake without traffic hassles.
High Trestle Trail Bridge: Iconic Bike Ride (Rating: 5/5)
This 25-mile trail culminates at a glowing 13-story bridge over the Des Moines River valley, named one of the world’s top footbridges by BBC.
Bike rentals are available nearby; evenings light up in blue for stunning photos. My insight: Go at dusk for fewer crowds and that magical glow, as I did last fall when the prairie wildflowers framed the scene perfectly. Check Catch Des Moines for trail maps.
Gray’s Lake Kayaking and Loops (Rating: 4.7/5)
Rent kayaks or paddleboats for $15-25/hour at the boathouse, circling the 1.9-mile illuminated loop with skyline peeks.
Families love the playground and picnic spots. Personally, I paddle here weekly; the bridges glow at night, turning a simple outing into a romantic float. Rentals via GetYourGuide.
Saylorville Lake and Neal Smith Trail (Rating: 4.6/5)
26 miles of trails past prairies, beaches, and bars on 26,000 acres. Pontoon rentals: $200/half-day. I fished here dawn to dusk once, catching bass amid quiet coves; ideal for all-day escapes. Visit TripAdvisor reviews.
Other must-sees: Clive Greenbelt Trail (4.5/5, urban escape), Jester Park hikes with bison views, and Blank Park Zoo for animal encounters. Ratings from TripAdvisor and local feedback confirm these as crowd favorites.
Recommended Guided Tours for Deeper Exploration
Book bike tours on High Trestle via GetYourGuide ($50/person, 4 hours) or kayak floats with Argo Adventures ($40, half-day on Des Moines River).
I joined a Seven Oaks river float last summer; guides shared wildlife spots I missed solo, floating past ledges and that massive railway bridge. For hiking, Jester Park nature center tours are free on weekends.
Pros of Des Moines Outdoors
- 800+ miles of free trails, ultra-safe for solo explorers.
- Seasonal variety: Kayak summer, ski in winter at Seven Oaks.
- Affordable: Most parks are free, and rentals are under $30/hour.
“Quiet paths beat crowded coasts every time,” I noted after biking Neal Smith.
Cons and How I Handle Them
- Weather swings: Pack layers; I carry a lightweight rain shell.
- Spread out spots: Rent a bike ($20/day) to connect trails efficiently.
- Busy weekends: Hit weekdays for solitude, like my midweek Gray’s Lake paddles.
Optimal Times to Visit Des Moines for Outdoor Fun
April-May offers sultry 32-88°F days with low crowds, perfect for trails (humidity ~68%). September-October brings balmy 62°F averages and fall foliage at Ledges State Park.
Avoid January’s chill unless snowshoeing Jester’s 5-mile groomed paths. My favorite: Late spring when wildflowers bloom along Neal Smith Trail.
Arriving in Des Moines: Airport and Transport Guide
Fly into Des Moines International Airport (DSM). Taxis to downtown cost $17 (10 mins); the DART bus costs $1.75 (30 mins, weekdays). Rental cars via Expedia start at $40/day for trail hopping. I always Uber for quick airport runs.
Navigating Des Moines: Trails, Buses, and Rides
DART buses cover downtown to parks ($1.75/ride); trails link everything on foot or bike. Rent e-bikes downtown for $25/day. Pro move: TrailLink app for seamless navigation, as I use for Saylorville to Gray’s Lake combos.
Top Lodging Picks and Typical Costs
Des Moines Marriott: $175/night (4.2/5).
Book via Booking.com or Hotels.com.
Average hotel: $117/night; 3 days ~$350 total per BudgetYourTrip analysis.
Suggested Budgets, Typical Expenses, and Money-Saving Hacks
Lodging: $117, food: Lodging:food:food: $40, activities:activities: $20, transport:transport: $15.
Free parks/trails; pack picnics ($10/meal); DART pass $5/day; off-peak hotels via Kayak.
For 4 days/3 nights: $600-1000/couple. I save by camping ($25/night) and biking everywhere.
Essential Safety Advice and Emergency Contacts
Des Moines trails are safe; stick to paths and hydrate in summer. Emergency: Dial 911. Police non-emergency: (515) 283-4811. Mental health: 211 via United Way. Sunscreen and bug spray are key; I carry a first-aid kit after a minor trail scrape. Check Des Moines Downtown Safety.
Venturing Nearby: Day Trips from Des Moines
High Trestle (30 mins north) and Ledges State Park (45 mins west) for cliffs. Iowa State Fairgrounds (10 mins) in August. My go-to: Polk City beaches from Saylorville.
Ideal Length of Stay for Full Experience
4-5 days: Day 1 downtown trails, Day 2 kayaking/Saylorville, Day 3 hiking Jester, Day 4 High Trestle. I extend to 7 for seasons like fall foliage.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best outdoor activities in Des Moines for families?
Gray’s Lake paddleboats and playgrounds, Blank Park Zoo, and Jester Park bison viewing. All highly rated for kids.
Is Des Moines safe for solo travelers outdoors?
Yes, trails are well-patrolled; use the buddy system at night. Locals like me hike alone confidently.
How much does a trip to Des Moines cost?
$150-250/day; save with free trails and buses.
What’s the best time for biking in Des Moines?
Spring/fall: mild temps, vibrant scenery on High Trestle.