The best city hikes and walks in Margo Frankel Woods State Park
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(2)
11
hikers
Urban hiking trails in Margo Frankel Woods State Park offer a wooded escape within a city environment. The park spans 136 acres, featuring heavily timbered ravines and an oak-hickory forest that provides abundant shade. Trails navigate steeply wooded slopes and a seasonal creek, creating a natural setting. The network includes gravel and dirt paths, some with steeper inclines and steps.
Best urban hiking trails in Margo Frankel Woods State Park
- The most popular urban hiking route is Iowa State Capitol…
Last updated: May 14, 2026
2
hikers
8.05km
02:06
60m
60m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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2
hikers
6.38km
01:40
50m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
A small Asian-style garden alongside the Des Moines River, the Robert D. Ray Asian Gardens features pagodas, stone sculptures, small ponds, waterfalls, and picturesque bridges.
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Walking up to the Iowa State Capitol is a fun way to add a bit of elevation to your urban hike. The grounds are open and walkable, with paths leading around the building and great views over downtown Des Moines.
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The Iowa Women of Achievement Bridge is a car-free bridge that gives you the chance to enjoy a pleasant ride or walk across the Des Moines River—even at night, thanks to its good lighting.
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The Principal Riverwalk is a smooth, scenic pathway along the Des Moines River, perfect if you're looking to explore downtown. Its well-paved paths and pedestrian bridges connect key districts, making it an excellent route for both casual spins and fast-paced rides. The city views and riverside breeze make it a great place to stretch your legs on two wheels.
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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.
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Nice change in the otherwise typical MidWest
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many urban hiking trails are available in Margo Frankel Woods State Park?
There are several urban hiking trails in Margo Frankel Woods State Park, offering a convenient natural escape within the city. Our guide features four distinct routes to help you explore the park's diverse landscapes.
Are the trails in Margo Frankel Woods State Park suitable for families with children?
Yes, Margo Frankel Woods State Park is very family-friendly. The park features picnic areas and two playgrounds, including a 'secret playground' accessible via a wooden staircase from the hiking trail, adding an element of adventure for children. Many trails are gravel and dirt, offering easy walks, though some sections may have steeper inclines and steps.
Can I bring my dog on the urban hiking trails in Margo Frankel Woods State Park?
While the region research does not specify dog rules for Margo Frankel Woods State Park, generally, state parks in Iowa welcome dogs on trails if they are kept on a leash. It's always best to check local signage upon arrival for any specific regulations regarding pets.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see while hiking here?
Margo Frankel Woods State Park is known for its 'wilderness in the big city' atmosphere. You'll hike through heavily timbered ravines and an oak-hickory forest, providing abundant shade. Expect to encounter steeply wooded slopes and a seasonal creek, creating a lush and immersive natural environment.
Are there any easy urban hikes in Margo Frankel Woods State Park?
Yes, the park offers trails suitable for easy walks. For example, the Robert D. Ray Asian Gardens – Neal Smith Trail loop from Iowa State Capitol is an easy 5.5 km route, and the Principal Riverwalk loop from Des Moines is another easy 6.4 km option.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the urban trails in Margo Frankel Woods State Park?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the park's ability to provide a natural, wooded escape within an urban setting, highlighting the abundant shade and diverse terrain that makes it feel far from city surroundings.
Are there any loop trails available for urban hiking?
Yes, several loop trails are available. You can explore the Iowa State Capitol loop from Des Moines, a moderate 7.9 km route, or the Robert D. Ray Asian Gardens loop from Iowa State Capitol, an easy 5.7 km option.
Is public transport available to Margo Frankel Woods State Park?
Margo Frankel Woods State Park is located between Des Moines and Ankeny. While specific DART bus routes directly to the park entrance are not detailed in the region research, public transport options are generally available in the Des Moines metropolitan area. It is advisable to check the DART website for the most current routes and schedules to plan your visit.
Where can I park when visiting Margo Frankel Woods State Park?
The park provides convenient parking. There is a main parking lot, with one of the park's two playgrounds located nearby, making it easy to access the trails and amenities upon arrival.
What is the best time of year to hike in Margo Frankel Woods State Park?
The park's heavily timbered ravines and oak-hickory forest offer abundant shade, making it pleasant during warmer months. However, some trails can become overgrown and buggy during the summer. Fall is often a beautiful time to visit for foliage, and spring offers fresh greenery. Consider visiting in spring or fall for potentially more comfortable conditions.
Are there restrooms available in Margo Frankel Woods State Park?
Yes, for visitor convenience, Margo Frankel Woods State Park provides seasonal restrooms.
Most popular routes in Margo Frankel Woods State Park
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