Things to Do around Ames
Ames, a region in central Iowa, features a diverse landscape characterized by river valleys, prairie lands, and an extensive park system. This environment provides varied terrain suitable for outdoor activities, including paved trails, gravel paths, and natural surface routes. The area's commitment to its park and trail infrastructure supports several sports like hiking, jogging, and road cycling.
Things to Do in Ames
For those seeking things to do in Ames, the region offers a wide array of outdoor activities. Komoot…
19
Routes
4.8
(5)
Average rating
130
People visited
14
hikers
2.33km
00:35
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
hikers
3.93km
01:01
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1.87km
00:30
30m
0m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2.46km
00:37
0m
0m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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24
runners
4.54km
00:28
10m
10m
Easy run. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5
runners
14.5km
01:30
70m
70m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
runners
9.44km
00:58
30m
30m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
runners
9.69km
01:00
30m
30m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4
riders
39.8km
01:40
120m
120m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
4.0
(1)
6
riders
26.2km
01:14
130m
130m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5
riders
22.8km
01:10
70m
70m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
3
riders
22.3km
01:03
70m
70m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Nearby adventure guides
Natural areas to explore nearby
Frequently asked questions
What outdoor activities are available in Ames?
Ames offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, jogging, and road cycling. The region features an extensive park and trail system with diverse environments from urban green spaces to natural areas. Komoot lists more than 40 routes for these sports.
What are the most popular hiking trails in Ames?
Popular hiking destinations in Ames include Ada Hayden Heritage Park, which features paved and gravel trails around a large lake, and Ledges State Park, known for its rugged trails and sandstone cliffs. For more options, refer to the guide Hiking around Ames.
Are there easy hiking trails in Ames?
Yes, Ames offers several easy hiking options. Ada Hayden Heritage Park provides accessible paved and gravel paths, and Brookside Park features scenic trails along Ioway Creek. The guide Easy hikes around Ames details suitable routes.
What are the best cycling routes in Ames?
The High Trestle Trail is a prominent cycling route, spanning 25 miles (40 km) and featuring an iconic bridge over the Des Moines River. The Heart of Iowa Nature Trail is another multi-use pathway, 32 miles (51 km) long, suitable for off-road cycling. More routes are available in the guide Road Cycling Routes around Ames.
Where can I go jogging in Ames?
Ames provides numerous locations for jogging, including the paved and gravel trails at Ada Hayden Heritage Park and the scenic paths within Brookside Park. The Tedesco Environmental Learning Corridor also offers paved and natural walking trails. For a comprehensive list, consult the guide Running Trails around Ames.
Are there family-friendly trails in Ames?
Many trails in Ames are suitable for families. Ada Hayden Heritage Park offers flat, accessible paths, and McFarland Park features prairie lands ideal for gentle walks. The Iowa Arboretum & Gardens also provides tranquil trails and a Treehouse Village for a family-friendly experience.
Are dogs allowed on trails in Ames?
Many parks and trails in Ames are dog-friendly, typically requiring dogs to be on a leash. Specific regulations may vary by park or trail, so checking local signage or park websites is recommended for detailed information.
What natural features or landmarks can be seen on Ames trails?
Trails in Ames offer views of diverse natural features. Visitors can see a large man-made lake at Ada Hayden Heritage Park, towering sandstone cliffs at Ledges State Park, and prairie lands at McFarland Park. The High Trestle Trail features an illuminated bridge over the Des Moines River.
How popular are Ames trails on komoot?
Ames trails are highly rated on komoot, with an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars from more than 300 visitors. The region features 43 routes across various sports, indicating a well-regarded outdoor community.
What komoot guides are available for Ames?
Komoot offers several guides for Ames, including Hiking around Ames, Easy hikes around Ames, Running Trails around Ames, and Road Cycling Routes around Ames.
How can I contact the city of Ames for more information?
For official information regarding Ames parks and recreation, the city's official website is www.cityofames.org. The main phone number for City Hall is +1-515-239-5101.
What is the High Trestle Trail?
The High Trestle Trail is a 25-mile (40 km) multi-use trail that follows an old railway line. Its most notable feature is the High Trestle Trail Bridge, which spans 130 feet (40 meters) over the Des Moines River and is adorned with illuminated art installations.
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