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Mountain biking trails

Bridge Over Des Moines – Des Moines River loop from Staff Parking

Routes

Mountain biking trails

Bridge Over Des Moines – Des Moines River loop from Staff Parking

Moderate

2.7

(2)

riders

Bridge Over Des Moines – Des Moines River loop from Staff Parking

02:22

41.4km

130m

Mountain biking

Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. The starting point of the route is right next to a parking lot.

Last updated: April 27, 2026

Waypoints

Start point

Parking

Get Directions

11.2 km

Des Moines River

Highlight • River

The Des Moines River is a tributary of the Mississippi River, as well as the largest river in Iowa. Historically, the river has a rich history of culture, tradition, recreation and adventure.

Tip by

14.4 km

Sycamore Wildlife Area

Nature Reserve

14.6 km

Trestle to Trestle Trail

Highlight (Segment) • Trail

The Trestle to Trestle Trail goes from Des Moines to Johnston. It is a fairly short trail at 3.7 miles long but it is a very good connector trail. It …

Tip by

18.8 km

At the Bridge over the Des Moines River, where the Inter Urban Trail crosses, you'll find a serene spot perfect for a rest and enjoying the view. Take a break here and soak in the tranquil atmosphere along the riverbank.

Tip by

19.1 km

Des Moines River

Highlight • River

Along the Des Moines River, Iowa's largest river, you'll find a wealth of culture, tradition, and recreational opportunities. Here, and along most of the trail, you'll enjoy stunning views, making it perfect for adventure-seekers and nature enthusiasts alike.

Tip by

20.6 km

Riverview Lake & Park

Highlight • Lake

Check out the revamped Riverview Park. Once an amusement park, it's now a municipal park with a playground and permanent bandstand. Despite delays due to COVID-19, the project was completed in fall 2020.

Tip by

21.5 km

Neal Smith Trail Recreation Area

Nature Reserve

27.5 km

Trestle-to-Trestle Trail

Highlight (Segment) • Trail

The Trestle to Trestle Trail goes from Des Moines to Johnston. It is a fairly short trail at 3.7 miles long but it is a very good connector trail. It …

Tip by

41.4 km

End point

Parking

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

30.0 km

7.66 km

3.44 km

237 m

< 100 m

Surfaces

18.0 km

15.7 km

5.66 km

2.00 km

< 100 m

Elevation

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

Highest point (290 m)

Lowest point (240 m)

Weather

Today

Sunday 5 July

29°C

21°C

49 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 10.0 km/h

to get more detailed weather forecasts along your route

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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.

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Description

The Bridge Over Des Moines – Des Moines River loop from Staff Parking is a fantastic mountain biking route that truly delivers on variety, offering a moderate 25.7-mile (41.4 km) ride with 441 feet (135 metres) of elevation gain, all achievable in about 2 hours and 22 minutes. This loop is perfect if you're looking for a substantial ride that blends flowing singletrack with scenic river crossings and urban trail connections, making it a great option for intermediate riders or those looking to explore the diverse Des Moines mountain biking scene.

What to expect on Bridge Over Des Moines – Des Moines River loop from Staff Parking

This route takes you on a journey through the heart of Des Moines' trail network, seamlessly connecting dedicated mountain biking singletrack with the broader paved multi-use paths. You'll likely experience the fast, flowing singletrack of areas like the Sycamore Trails, winding through old-growth forests along the west side of the Des Moines River, or the purpose-built flow trails of Fourmile Mountain Bike Park, designed for a