Zo-El Annett Woods: A Kid Friendly Experience
Zo-El Annett Woods has a loop trail through the woods, crossing a long suspension bridge with beautiful views. There are several steps and elevation changes, with a nice flat area to picnic or grill.
Address
Zo-El Annett Woods is located at 5589 Hempstead Prole, Iowa 50229. It is located near Martensdale off Highway 92. Head east from Martensdale on Hwy 92 to 55th Avenue. Turn north on 55th and follow it as it veers east to Hempstead. The park is on the north side of the road.
Basic Park Details
Type: Places to hike
Bathrooms: No
Shade: Yes, shaded trees, tree shade by picnic tables
Playground: No
Trails: Yes, dirt
Water: No
Other notes: Long suspension bridge, wooded trails. We saw lots of wildlife when we visited.
Park Map: https://www.warrenccb.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/ZEAWP_Terrain_Base_FINAL_040719.pdf
Official Website: https://www.warrenccb.org/parks-trails/zo-el-annett-woods
What to expect at Zo-El Annett Woods
The wooded trail here is a smaller loop that any age level can handle. You get some natural elevation changes along with some stairs to climb and a wonderful suspension bridge to cross over. Plan to spend some time on the bridge to let your kiddos jump and play around!
The woods here are beautiful and woodland flowers during the Spring bring wonderful scents to your nose. Along the trail, there are some benches to rest or just sit and reflect on the beauty in front of you. If you get the urge to head out later at night, the park is open until 10 p.m., and I have heard many owl calls, which the kids always love to mimic.
At the end of your loop, you will find yourself in a little picnic area. There is a larger fire ring and some smaller grills as well. This is a perfect place to start a fire and prepare some s’mores. Sometimes the promise of fire and s’mores at the end of the hike powers my kids through the trail!
