Raccoon River Valley Trail
Easy
89 miles
Paved
Featured
A 89-mile paved loop trail connecting Des Moines suburbs and small towns — one of the longest paved trails in the United States. Perfect for long-distance cycling adventures.
Activities
biking
running
walking
Trail Highlights
Passes through charming small towns like Waukee, Dallas Center, Perry, and Jefferson. Great support services along the route with restaurants and bike shops.
Before you go
- From downtown
- The Waukee trailhead is about 17 miles and 25 minutes west on I-235 and University Avenue.
- Parking
- Free lots at every town on the loop. Waukee and Adel are the busiest; Minburn and Dawson are empty most weekends.
- Where to start
- Waukee for the shortest drive, Adel if you want a 12-mile out-and-back that ends at a square with lunch on it.
- Dogs
- Leashed dogs are allowed. There is no shade on long stretches of the open sections, so summer afternoons are hard on paws and pavement runs hot.
- In winter
- Open and not plowed. The surface underneath is good, so a dry cold spell makes for fast, empty riding.
- Cost
- Trail pass required for riders 18 and over, sold at trailhead kiosks. Walking and running are free.
Written