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North Loop

Hiking trails & Routes

North Loop

Easy

4.5

(6214)

17,103

hikers

North Loop

Q: Where can I park to access the North Loop trail?

The trail is located within Brown's Woods . Parking is typically available at the main entrance to the park, providing direct access to the trailhead.

Q: Is this trail suitable for beginners or families with children?

Yes, this route is rated as 'easy' and is suitable for beginners and families. Its relatively short distance and minimal elevation changes make it a pleasant and accessible outdoor experience.

Q: Are dogs allowed on the trail?

While specific regulations for Brown's Woods are not detailed here, most trails in public parks allow dogs on a leash. It's always best to check local signage or the park's official website for the most current pet policies before your visit.

Q: What is the best time of year to hike this route?

Given its forest setting, the trail is enjoyable in various seasons. Spring offers lush greenery and wildflowers, while autumn provides beautiful fall foliage. Summer is pleasant under the tree cover, and winter can offer a serene, snowy landscape, though conditions may vary.

Q: Do I need a permit or pay an entrance fee for Brown's Woods?

Generally, regional parks like Brown's Woods do not require permits or charge entrance fees for day use. However, it's always a good idea to check the official Polk County Conservation website for any specific regulations or changes before your visit.

Q: What kind of terrain can I expect on this hike?

The trail is generally easy with minimal elevation changes, suggesting a relatively flat and well-maintained path. As it's located within a forest, you can expect natural surfaces, potentially including dirt, roots, or gravel.

Q: Does the trail connect with other paths?

Yes, the route fully encompasses the North Loop trail and also passes through sections of the Wilderness Loop, the Gateway Trail, and the Preparation Loop, offering options for longer or varied hikes within Brown's Woods .

Q: What can I see along the route?

The primary highlight of this route is the immersive experience within Brown's Woods , a beautiful forest environment. You'll be surrounded by trees and nature, offering a peaceful escape.

Q: Is this a loop trail or an out-and-back?

As its name suggests, the North Loop is a circular route, meaning you will end up back at your starting point without having to retrace your steps.

Q: What should I bring for this hike?

For this easy, relatively short hike, comfortable walking shoes, water, and appropriate clothing for the weather are recommended. If hiking with a dog, remember a leash and waste bags. A camera might be nice to capture the forest scenery.

01:20

4.99km

50m

Hiking

The North Loop offers a delightful and accessible hiking experience, perfect for a quick escape into nature. This easy 3.1-mile (5.0 km) route winds through the tranquil forest of Brown's Woods, providing a peaceful setting for your walk. With a modest 169 feet (51 metres) of elevation gain, the trail is gentle underfoot, making it an excellent choice for families, beginners, or anyone looking for a relaxing stroll that takes about 1 hour and 19 minutes.

Planning your visit to the North Loop is straightforward. The trailhead is easily accessible, and while specific parking details aren't provided, it's generally a good idea to arrive early, especially on weekends, to ensure a spot. The trail is suitable for most seasons, but spring and autumn often present the most pleasant weather and scenic views. Always check local forecasts before you head out.

This trail stands out as a fantastic option for those seeking a family-friendly and dog-friendly hike in the West Des Moines area. Its easy difficulty and manageable length make it a popular North Loop hiking destination for a casual outing, allowing you to enjoy the natural surroundings without committing to a long or strenuous adventure. It's a great way to get some fresh air and exercise close to home.

Last updated: June 9, 2026

Waypoints

Start point

Parking

Get Directions

201 m

Brown's Woods

Highlight • Forest

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.

Tip by

4.99 km

End point

Parking

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

4.84 km

118 m

< 100 m

Surfaces

4.76 km

126 m

< 100 m

Elevation

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

Weather

Today

Wednesday 2 September

38°C

24°C

0 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 13.0 km/h

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I park to access the North Loop trail?

The trail is located within Brown's Woods. Parking is typically available at the main entrance to the park, providing direct access to the trailhead.

Is this trail suitable for beginners or families with children?

Yes, this route is rated as 'easy' and is suitable for beginners and families. Its relatively short distance and minimal elevation changes make it a pleasant and accessible outdoor experience.

Are dogs allowed on the trail?

While specific regulations for Brown's Woods are not detailed here, most trails in public parks allow dogs on a leash. It's always best to check local signage or the park's official website for the most current pet policies before your visit.

What is the best time of year to hike this route?

Given its forest setting, the trail is enjoyable in various seasons. Spring offers lush greenery and wildflowers, while autumn provides beautiful fall foliage. Summer is pleasant under the tree cover, and winter can offer a serene, snowy landscape, though conditions may vary.

Do I need a permit or pay an entrance fee for Brown's Woods?

Generally, regional parks like Brown's Woods do not require permits or charge entrance fees for day use. However, it's always a good idea to check the official Polk County Conservation website for any specific regulations or changes before your visit.

What kind of terrain can I expect on this hike?

The trail is generally easy with minimal elevation changes, suggesting a relatively flat and well-maintained path. As it's located within a forest, you can expect natural surfaces, potentially including dirt, roots, or gravel.

Does the trail connect with other paths?

Yes, the route fully encompasses the North Loop trail and also passes through sections of the Wilderness Loop, the Gateway Trail, and the Preparation Loop, offering options for longer or varied hikes within Brown's Woods.

What can I see along the route?

The primary highlight of this route is the immersive experience within Brown's Woods, a beautiful forest environment. You'll be surrounded by trees and nature, offering a peaceful escape.

Is this a loop trail or an out-and-back?

As its name suggests, the North Loop is a circular route, meaning you will end up back at your starting point without having to retrace your steps.

What should I bring for this hike?

For this easy, relatively short hike, comfortable walking shoes, water, and appropriate clothing for the weather are recommended. If hiking with a dog, remember a leash and waste bags. A camera might be nice to capture the forest scenery.

Are there any viewpoints or notable landmarks along the way?

While the trail is primarily focused on the forest experience within Brown's Woods, the entire route itself is a highlight, offering a continuous immersion in nature rather than specific panoramic viewpoints or distinct landmarks.