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Neal Smith Trail – Des Moines River loop from Staff Parking

Routes

Bike touring routes & trails

Neal Smith Trail – Des Moines River loop from Staff Parking

Moderate

5.0

(2360)

15,609

riders

Neal Smith Trail – Des Moines River loop from Staff Parking

02:26

41.2km

180m

Cycling

Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is right next to a parking lot.

Last updated: July 1, 2026

Waypoints

Start point

Parking

Get Directions

8.84 km

Saylorville Lake Visitor Center

Highlight • Rest Area

The Saylorville Lake Visitor Center is located at the southeast corner of the lake and offers a variety of scheduled events, a theater, several interactive displays, and a selection of maps. A butterfly garden is also a short walk away.

Tip by

21.1 km

Des Moines River

Highlight • River

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

Highlight (Segment) • Trail

The Neal Smith Trail is a 26-mile trail through Des Moines along the Des Moines River. It is fully paved and traffic free, so it is a great way to move through the heavily populated city.

Tip by

23.3 km

Neal Smith Trail Recreation Area

Nature Reserve

25.8 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

32.0 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

41.2 km

End point

Parking

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

36.5 km

2.97 km

1.35 km

256 m

< 100 m

Surfaces

29.6 km

11.2 km

318 m

< 100 m

Elevation

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

Highest point (300 m)

Lowest point (240 m)

Weather

Today

Sunday 5 July

30°C

21°C

49 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 10.0 km/h

to get more detailed weather forecasts along your route

Comments

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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.

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Neal Smith Trail – Des Moines River loop from Staff Parking

Saylorville Lake Visitor Center

Des Moines River

Neal Smith Trail

Bridge Over Des Moines

Des Moines River

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