Attractions and Places To See around Clive - Top 14
Best attractions and places to see around Clive, a suburb of Des Moines, include a variety of natural features and cultural sites. The area is characterized by its extensive Greenbelt Trail system along Walnut Creek, offering numerous outdoor activities. Its proximity to Des Moines provides access to additional metropolitan attractions. Clive offers a mix of historical sites, parks, and trails for exploration.
Best attractions and places to see around Clive
- The most popular attractions is Iowa Women of Achievement Bridge…
Last updated: May 28, 2026
Iowa Women of Achievement Bridge
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Neal Smith Trail
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Brown's Woods
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Trestle to Trestle Trail
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Gray's Lake Park
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Brown's Woods, in West Des Moines, is the state's largest urban forest, encompassing 486 acres of mature oak and hickory trees. The area offers over 4 miles of moderate hiking trails, including the Gateway Trail (0.5 miles), Preparation Loop (0.5 miles), Wilderness Loop (1.4 miles), and North Loop (2 miles). These trails all traverse rolling hills and small streams in forested environment. The preserve also serves as a crucial stopover for migratory birds during spring and fall, attracting species such as warblers and vireos, making it a popular spot for birdwatching. This is also a popular spot with foragers; visitors are permitted to collect nuts, fruits, or edible mushrooms for non-commercial use, provided the plants are not harmed. However, activities like removing plants, hunting, trapping animals, and cutting wood are prohibited. Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a six-foot leash, and owners are reminded to clean up after their pets.
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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 runs past some heavily wooded forests and the Des Moines River on the way so the scenery is great. It is also a good quality asphalt trail.
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Gray's Lake Park has a total size of 166-acres and is located in the heart of Des Moines. The lake of the same name is the park's main feature and is surrounded by a path for cycling and hiking. One of the highlights is the bridge that crosses the lake, as it can be illuminated in the evening and nighttime.
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Gray's Lake Park is a 166-acre park. The main feature of the park is the large lake, which give the park its name, and is located in the middle of the park. There is also a paved walking and biking path that goes around the lake and includes a bridge that crosses the water.
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Gray's Lake Park is a 166-acre park. Its main feature is the large lake in the center of the park. There is also a paved walking and biking path that goes around the lake and includes a bridge that crosses the water.
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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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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 two paths crossing the Des Moines River, one for cyclists and one for pedestrians, with the walkway over the middle of the river having a glass floor. Each year beginning in 2013, notable women from Iowa’s history are honored at this bridge. Local citizens provide the nominations, which are then reviewed by a committee that selects the recipients. Selections include women who have made a positive impact on the lives of others, achieved extraordinary accomplishments, inspired future generations, and who have been agents of change for the betterment of the state of Iowa, our nation, or the world.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural attractions can I explore in Clive?
Clive is known for its extensive Greenbelt Trail system, which spans over 11 miles along Walnut Creek, offering a motor vehicle-free route for walking and biking. You can also visit Wildwood Park, located along the Greenbelt Trail, which features green space and recreational facilities. Nearby, Brown's Woods in West Des Moines is the state's largest urban forest with over 4 miles of hiking trails. Gray's Lake Park also offers a large lake surrounded by a paved path for cycling and hiking.
Are there family-friendly activities in Clive?
Yes, Clive offers several family-friendly options. The Clive Aquatic Center is a popular water park with pools, slides, and a lazy river. The Clive Greenbelt Trail and Wildwood Park are excellent for outdoor activities like walking and playing. You can also look for the unique Clive Greenbelt Goats, which are used for invasive plant management and have become a local attraction. For a creative outing, Glazed Expressions offers pottery painting and candle making.
What historical sites can I visit in Clive?
The Clive Historical Society campus is a key historical site, preserving the 1882 Clive Depot, a former railroad hub, along with a caboose and the 1911 Swanson's General Store. This provides insight into Clive's origins as a railroad settlement. Swanson Memorial Park also features green space, picnic tables, an old caboose, and a historic train depot.
Are there any unique cultural experiences in Clive?
Clive embraces art and culture through initiatives like Art Along the Trail, an annual outdoor exhibit featuring artworks along the Clive Greenbelt Trail from May to October. The Clive Public Library also hosts the Clive Art Gallery, showcasing local and student artists. Additionally, you can find notable murals like "Nostalgic Clive" at Swanson Memorial Park.
What are the best places for walking or cycling near Clive?
The Neal Smith Trail is a 26-mile paved, traffic-free trail along the Des Moines River, perfect for cycling and walking. The Trestle to Trestle Trail is another good option, connecting Des Moines to Johnston through wooded areas. For more routes, explore easy hikes around Clive or cycling routes around Clive.
Are there any attractions accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, several attractions are noted for their accessibility. The Iowa Women of Achievement Bridge features separate paths for cyclists and pedestrians, including a glass floor section, and is wheelchair accessible. The Neal Smith Trail is fully paved and traffic-free, making it accessible. Gray's Lake Park also has a paved path around the lake that is wheelchair-friendly.
Where can I find places to eat or drink in Clive?
For dining and shopping, Jordan Creek Town Center, just minutes from Clive, is Iowa's largest mall with over 130 retailers and numerous dining options, particularly in its Lake District. For local craft beer, 515 Brewing Company is located directly on the Clive Greenbelt Trail.
What is the best time of year to visit Clive for outdoor activities?
The spring and fall seasons are generally ideal for outdoor activities in Clive, offering pleasant temperatures for walking, cycling, and exploring the Greenbelt Trail and parks. During these times, you can also enjoy the Art Along the Trail exhibit. Summer is also popular, especially for water activities at the Clive Aquatic Center, though it can be warmer.
Are there dog-friendly trails in Clive?
Yes, Brown's Woods in West Des Moines welcomes dogs on its over 4 miles of hiking trails, provided they are kept on a six-foot leash. Many of the paved trails, including sections of the Clive Greenbelt Trail, are also suitable for leashed dogs.
What are some nearby attractions outside of Clive?
Just a short drive from Clive, you can visit Living History Farms in Urbandale, a 500-acre outdoor museum showcasing Iowa's agricultural heritage. Historic Valley Junction in West Des Moines offers a charming historic commercial district with over 150 locally owned businesses in historic brick buildings, along with a farmers' market and art fair.
Where can I go for a run near Clive?
Clive and its surroundings offer excellent running opportunities. The Neal Smith Trail is a 26-mile paved, traffic-free route along the Des Moines River. Gray's Lake Park features a paved path around the lake, ideal for a scenic run. For more options, check out running trails around Clive.
Are there any hidden gems or unique outdoor features in Clive?
The Clive Greenbelt Goats are a unique and charming feature along the Clive Greenbelt Trail. These goats are used for natural invasive plant management and have become a beloved local attraction, with visitors often tracking their locations. The annual Art Along the Trail exhibit also transforms the Greenbelt Trail into an outdoor art gallery.
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