Best Hiking in Iowa

Trying to find the best hiking in Iowa? Bivy has great hiking, biking, paddling, climbing, skiing, riding and more, with hand-curated trail maps, as well as detailed driving directions.

1

Iowa, Polk County

05 :40 hrs
13.8 mi
110.29744 ft
Moderate

Walking through biking trail and more on the shore of Big Creek Lake.

2

Iowa, Warren County

00 :45 hrs
2.2 mi
5.5433044 ft
Easy

This is a fun trail; although paved, it takes you into nature. The woods surrounding it and the lakes offer a wonderful view as you hike. You will encounter bikers along the way. There is a shooting range next to it and the park is surrounded by farmland.

3

Iowa, West Des Moines

01 :18 hrs
3.1 mi
43.913315 ft
Easy

This is a 2-mile loop that follows a dirt path loop around the perimeter of Brown's Woods. There are several large hills so expect some ups and downs. Restrooms and water are available at the trailhead. If you bring your cell phone they have an audio cellphone tour around the park.

4

Iowa, Ankeny

00 :42 hrs
1 mi
9.5572815 ft
Easy

Hikers and cyclists share the path. A short and paved trail filled with wildlife and Birdwatching opportunities. There is rich vegetation throughout your hike. Please do not feed the wildlife. No fee required.

5

Iowa, Des Moines

01 :40 hrs
3.5 mi
32.799957 ft
Easy

This is a double Loop through Water Works park. It is on the road so be mindful of traffic. It's a flat, easy walk. Enjoy!

6

Iowa, Waterloo

00 :38 hrs
1.8 mi
3.2130127 ft
Hard

Dense forest and open areas, fishing, canoeing available, lots of bugs, great birdwatching. Trail is dirt and well maintained and goes all around the perimeter of the lake.

7

Iowa, Henry County

02 :28 hrs
6.3 mi
41.117188 ft
Easy

Hiking in Geode State Park around the perimeter of the lake. The scenery is beautiful and there is picnicking and fishing available.

8

Iowa, Johnson County

01 :37 hrs
4.8 mi
21.71228 ft
Moderate

Birdwatchers can see almost every bird native to the region. There are multi-use trails in the park and single use. This in the only trail where mountain biking is allowed; and in the winter, this is one of two trails where snowmobiling is allowed. Bikers, yield to hikers. And, there is parking available at both ends. Great lake views during the whole hike.

9

Iowa, Des Moines

00 :16 hrs
0.4 mi
3.6340027 ft
Easy

Relaxing walk at Gray's Lake. There are multiple trails, multiple eagle sighting/nesting, beach area, lake, lake boat, popular area so higher traffic.

10

Iowa, Des Moines

00 :30 hrs
1.3 mi
22.869522 ft
Easy

This is an easy trail of mixed concrete and crushed stone. There are several bathrooms and picnic facilities around the trail. You will cross three bridges over the lake. It is easy hiking with some beautiful lake views.

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