Neal Smith Trail

The trail offers multiple access points, allowing you to tailor your trip length. You can find parking in downtown Des Moines or near Big Creek State Park. These various access points make it easy to start your ride from different locations along the route.

The trail features a paved surface of asphalt and concrete, suitable for road bikes. While generally considered to have an 'easy' physical rating with an average grade of 0.2%, it's not entirely flat. You'll encounter 'rolling mild hills' and 'swoopy turns,' especially along Saylorville Lake, where sections can be 'quite hilly.' This offers a moderate challenge, making it manageable for most riders while still providing a workout.

You'll cycle through diverse landscapes, including the Des Moines River valley with panoramic views of Saylorville Lake. The route passes through mature forests, shaded woodlands, oak savannas, bottomlands, and rolling prairies with wildflower meadows. Notable attractions include the Neal Smith Trail itself, the Big Creek Barrier Dam and views of Saylorville Lake, the Ding Darling Greenway, Red Feather Prairie, and a butterfly garden near the Saylorville Lake Visitor Center.

The trail offers beautiful scenery throughout the warmer months. Spring and fall are often ideal for cycling due to milder temperatures and vibrant foliage or blooming wildflowers. Summer can also be enjoyable, but be prepared for warmer weather. Always check the weather forecast before heading out.

Yes, this trail is a central Iowa connection of the American Discovery Trail. It also links to other paths in the Central Iowa Trail Network, including the John Pat Dorrian Trail and the InterUrban Trail, expanding your cycling possibilities.

While the trail is popular for recreation, specific regulations regarding dogs can vary. Generally, dogs are allowed on a leash, but it's always best to check local signage or the official websites for the City of Des Moines, Iowa DNR, or Army Corps of Engineers for the most current rules.

There are no permits or fees required to access the Neal Smith Trail itself. However, if you plan to use facilities or specific areas within Big Creek State Park or other managed areas around Saylorville Lake, there might be day-use fees or other regulations. It's advisable to check with the Iowa Department of Natural Resources or the Army Corps of Engineers for details on specific park areas.

The diverse landscapes along the route provide habitats for various wildlife. Cyclists often spot deer, rabbits, muskrat, and beaver. Keep an eye out, especially in the early morning or late afternoon, for opportunities to observe these animals in their natural environment.

Yes, the trail offers several amenities for cyclists. You can find restrooms and picnic areas at various points along the route. There are also campgrounds available if you plan an extended trip. It's always a good idea to carry sufficient water, especially on longer rides, as the availability of water stations can vary seasonally.

The Neal Smith Trail primarily functions as an out-and-back route, spanning approximately 24.7 to 26 miles between downtown Des Moines and Big Creek State Park. While it connects to other trails that could form loops, the core Neal Smith Trail itself is linear.

The Neal Smith Trail stands out as one of the oldest trails in the Central Iowa Trail Network, originally constructed in 1982. Unlike many flat rail-to-trail paths, it features 'rolling mild hills' and 'swoopy turns,' offering a more dynamic cycling experience. Its diverse scenery, from river valleys to oak savannas, and its connectivity to the American Discovery Trail, also make it a distinctive choice.