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Des Moines River – Des Moines River loop from Ankeny

Des Moines River – Des Moines River loop from Ankeny

Moderate

4.8

(9338)

9,339

riders

Des Moines River – Des Moines River loop from Ankeny

02:42

56.0km

290m

Road cycling

Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride. The starting point of the route is accessible with public transport.

Last updated: March 16, 2026

Tips

The surface for a segment of your route may not be suitable

Some segments of your route comprise a surface that may not be suitable for your chosen sport.

After 23.5 km for 778 m

Waypoints

Start point

Bus stop

Get Directions

14.7 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

20.6 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

21.2 km

Neal Smith Trail at Riverview Lake

Highlight (Segment) • Trail

This section of the Neal Smith Trail skirts right along the river. It's very quiet and a nice ride. With no traffic to worry about, it's an ideal place to escape the city!

Tip by

22.4 km

Riverview Lake

Lake

24.4 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

25.7 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

28.8 km

Sycamore Wildlife Area

Nature Reserve

31.8 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

42.3 km

Saylorville Dam

Highlight • Monument

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!

Tip by

54.0 km

Ankeny

Highlight • Settlement

Ankeny sits near the beginning (or end depending on direction) of the High Trestle Trail. It's a great stop for lunch or bike supplies.

Tip by

56.0 km

End point

Bus stop

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

36.6 km

16.5 km

2.38 km

556 m

Surfaces

32.1 km

23.4 km

584 m

Elevation

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

Highest point (310 m)

Lowest point (240 m)

Weather

Monday 1 June

31°C

17°C

36 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 12.0 km/h

to get more detailed weather forecasts along your route

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 – Des Moines River loop from Ankeny

Des Moines River

Des Moines River

Neal Smith Trail at Riverview Lake

Bridge Over Des Moines

Trestle to Trestle Trail

Johnston Interurban Trail

Saylorville Dam

Ankeny

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