Day Trips from Des Moines
← All Des Moines day tripsDay Trips from Des Moines: Hiking Trails & Nature
Find the best hiking trails and nature destinations within driving distance of Des Moines, IA. From easy lakeside walks to challenging ridge hikes, these day trip trails deliver real scenery without the plane ticket. Drive times, ratings, and trail info included.
12 hiking trails near Des Moines
Parkville Nature Sanctuary
Parkville, MO 64152
Just 2 hrs 58 min from Des Moines, rated 4.8 stars by 1,475 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Indian Creek Nature Center
Cedar Rapids, IA 52403
Just 1 hr 60 min from Des Moines, rated 4.8 stars by 758 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Ledges State Park
Madrid, IA 50156
Just 48 min from Des Moines, rated 4.8 stars by 2,941 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Fontenelle Forest
Bellevue, NE 68005
Just 2 hrs 7 min from Des Moines, rated 4.8 stars by 1,437 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Maquoketa Caves State Park
Maquoketa, IA 52060
Just 2 hrs 55 min from Des Moines, rated 4.8 stars by 3,900 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Wildcat Den State Park
Muscatine, IA 52761
Just 2 hrs 27 min from Des Moines, rated 4.8 stars by 1,302 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Hitchcock Nature Center
Honey Creek, IA 51542
Just 2 hrs from Des Moines, rated 4.8 stars by 1,211 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Jacob Krumm Nature Preserve
Grinnell, IA 50112
Just 47 min from Des Moines, rated 4.7 stars, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Backbone State Park
Dundee, IA 52038
Just 2 hrs 43 min from Des Moines, rated 4.7 stars by 1,845 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Cave Spring Park
Kansas City, MO 64133
Just 2 hrs 56 min from Des Moines, rated 4.6 stars by 847 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Lake Macbride State Park
Solon, IA 52333
Just 1 hr 49 min from Des Moines, rated 4.6 stars by 1,999 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Fallen Rock State Preserve
Eldora, IA 50627
Just 1 hr 22 min from Des Moines, rated 4.6 stars, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hiking Trails Day Trips from Des Moines
What are the best hiking trails near Des Moines, IA?
The best hikes near Des Moines range from easy nature preserve loops to challenging state park trails with waterfalls, overlooks, and canyon scenery. Check the cards above for top-rated options with real drive times.
Are there easy hikes near Des Moines?
Yes. Many state parks and nature preserves near Des Moines offer well-maintained, beginner-friendly trails under 3 miles. Look for "Nature" tagged destinations above for the most accessible options.
What should I bring on a day hike from Des Moines?
Pack water, snacks, sunscreen, and layers. Most trails near Des Moines are well-marked but cell service can be spotty in state parks. Download trail maps before you leave and wear sturdy shoes.
When is the best time to hike near Des Moines?
Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer the best hiking weather and scenery near Des Moines. Fall foliage is spectacular at most destinations. Summer works but can be hot and buggy. Winter hiking is possible at many parks with proper gear.
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