Great Western Trail runs along an old railroad line, connecting several small towns in a paved stretch. Primarily used by bikers, it passes over bridges with intermittent shade and scenery. We visited as a part of the Polk County Geocaching Challenge, exploring off of the Des Moines trail head.
Information:
Name: Great Western Trail
Address: Trailheads at: George Flagg Parkway and Park Ave Des Moines, Iowa 50321 & 20th St and S County Line Road Orilla, Iowa & G14 and 25th Ave Cumming, IA & Iowa Ave and Border St Martensdale, Iowa
Type: Places to take a walk
Bathrooms: Yes
Shade: No
Playground: No
Trails: Yes, paved
Water: Unknown
Other notes: This 16.5 mile recreational trail begins near Water Works Park in Des Moines and ends in Martensdale. Trail map: https://www.polkcountyiowa.gov/conservation/parks-trails/12-great-western-trail/map-detail/
Official Website: https://www.polkcountyiowa.gov/conservation/parks-trails/12-great-western-trail/
DSMOF Blog posts:
Other things nearby of note:
If you’re looking for other places to get outside, check back-in with the interactive map!
Pictures:
Have you been here? Leave a comment and let people know what you think!