The best dog-friendly hikes and walks in Walnut Woods State Park

This sandy beach at Gray’s Lake is a great spot to pause during or after your hike. Dip your feet in the water, relax on the sand, or even have a quick picnic before finishing the loop around the lake.

Greenwood Park Lagoon is a small, 2.3-acre pond within Greenwood Park and was one of the first urban wetland projects in the country. Adjacent to this historic pond is a large outdoor amphitheater that is a popular spot to rest and relax while exploring the area.

The Bill Riley Trail is a 2.7-mile paved pathway that winds through wooded areas, including Ashworth Park, and crosses the Raccoon River via a rustic trestle bridge. The trail is named after Bill Riley, a member of the Des Moines Park Board who played a significant role in raising funds for the city's trail system. It is popular among cyclists, walkers, and runners, and although dogs are welcome, they must be kept on a leash. Parking is available near the Ashworth Memorial Pool in Ashworth Park, and in Gray's Lake Park.

Brown's Woods, in West Des Moines, is the state's largest urban forest, encompassing 486 acres of mature oak and hickory trees. The area offers over 4 miles of moderate hiking trails, including the Gateway Trail (0.5 miles), Preparation Loop (0.5 miles), Wilderness Loop (1.4 miles), and North Loop (2 miles). These trails all traverse rolling hills and small streams in forested environment. The preserve also serves as a crucial stopover for migratory birds during spring and fall, attracting species such as warblers and vireos, making it a popular spot for birdwatching. This is also a popular spot with foragers; visitors are permitted to collect nuts, fruits, or edible mushrooms for non-commercial use, provided the plants are not harmed. However, activities like removing plants, hunting, trapping animals, and cutting wood are prohibited. Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a six-foot leash, and owners are reminded to clean up after their pets.

Discover hidden sculptures and murals throughout the park. Follow a storybook trail around the pond, enjoying pages displayed along the path. There's even a community garden where residents can grow their own food.

Colby Woods is a peaceful and scenic residential area with lush greenery, a charming small park, a small playground, and a well-maintained golf course. The Colby Woods Trail multiuse pathway runs along the beautiful North Walnut Creek, providing a perfect setting for an enjoyable bike ride.

Greenwood Park Lagoon is a small, 2.3-acre pond within Greenwood Park.

Gray's Lake Park has a total size of 166-acres and is located in the heart of Des Moines. The lake of the same name is the park's main feature and is surrounded by a path for cycling and hiking. One of the highlights is the bridge that crosses the lake, as it can be illuminated in the evening and nighttime.