Woodward Iowa HIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near Woodward, Iowa.
1. High Trestle Trail
Iconic Bridge Adventure. Trek 25 miles of smooth, paved trail stretching from Woodward to Ankeny. Marvel at the stunning, art-filled High Trestle Bridge standing 13 stories above the Des Moines River. Experience dazzling seasonal bridge lights and panoramic river valley views.
< MORE INFO >2. Raccoon River Valley Trail
Scenic Prairie Ride. Glide along over 89 miles of paved trail winding through countryside, small towns, and woodlands. Enjoy gentle grades perfect for all skill levels and discover historic depots and river crossings. Rest at well-spaced parks, shelters, and water stops.
< MORE INFO >3. Swede Point Park
Riverside Woodland Trails. Rambling trails weave through mature timber and along scenic ridgelines above the Des Moines River. Hike rolling paths that showcase wildflowers and wildlife. Find picnic spots and serene river overlooks.
< MORE INFO >4. Ledges State Park
Majestic Sandstone Canyons. Explore dramatic trails winding through sandstone gorges and lush woodlands. Challenge yourself with steep climbs and stairways carved into the bluffs. Snap photos of Hobbs Hollow and breathtaking river valley scenery.
< MORE INFO >5. Don Williams Recreation Area
Lakefront Nature Walks. Stroll peaceful loops along the edge of Don Williams Lake. Trails traverse prairie, woodland, and shoreline teeming with birdlife. Unwind with fishing, boating, or a picnic under shady oaks.
< MORE INFO >6. Jester Park
Expansive Forest Meanders. Over 8 miles of multi-use trails snake through old-growth forest, open meadows, and lakeshore. Spot deer, wild turkeys, and songbirds on easy-to-moderate paths. Enjoy golf, camping, and bison and elk enclosures nearby.
< MORE INFO >7. Heart of Iowa Nature Trail
Rail-Trail Prairie Escape. Travel crushed limestone trail through restored prairie, farmland, and woodlands between Slater and Melbourne. Perfect for hiking, biking, and wildlife watching with gentle rolling grades. Connect with High Trestle Trail for a longer adventure.
< MORE INFO >8. Chichaqua Valley Trail
Wetland Wildlife Stroll. Follow a 26-mile trail flanked by tallgrass prairie, woodlands, and Chichaqua Bottoms Greenbelt wetlands. Spot herons, deer, and countless songbirds along flat, easy-to-navigate paths. Bridges span meandering streams and wildflower fields.
< MORE INFO >9. Big Creek State Park
Lakeside Hiking Loops. Loop along miles of paved and dirt trails beside sparkling Big Creek Lake. Discover wooded peninsulas, wildlife-rich shorelines, and sandy beaches. Popular with hikers, anglers, and paddlers alike.
< MORE INFO >10. Boone River Recreational Trail
Riverside Pathways. Trace the scenic Boone River on gravel and paved routes weaving through mature woods and open parkland. Enjoy easy, breezy hiking for all ages with frequent river glimpses. Picnic shelters and playgrounds enhance the family-friendly vibe.
< MORE INFO >
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