5
hikers
01:11
4.46km
50m
Hiking
The Rollercoaster Mountain Bike Trail in Des Moines offers a surprisingly gentle and accessible hiking experience, despite its name. You'll enjoy a pleasant walk through local parkland, with the path winding through natural settings that provide a refreshing break from city life. It's a great spot for a quick, easy outing where the focus is on enjoying the outdoors rather than tackling challenging terrain.
Planning your visit to the Rollercoaster Mountain Bike Trail is straightforward. The trailhead is easily accessible, and parking is typically available, though it's wise to arrive earlier on busy days. This trail is suitable for family friendly hikes and is also a dog friendly walk, making it a versatile option for many. Consider visiting in the morning or late afternoon for the most comfortable temperatures.
This trail is an excellent choice for those seeking beginner hiking trails in the Des Moines area. Its easy difficulty and manageable length of 2.8 miles (4.5 km) with only 173 feet (53 metres) of elevation gain make it ideal for a leisurely 1 hour and 11 minute stroll. It's a perfect example of how local parks can offer valuable green spaces for recreation and relaxation.
Last updated: June 9, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
4.46 km
End point
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
3.79 km
646 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
3.80 km
457 m
164 m
< 100 m
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This route was planned by komoot.
The trailhead for this route is located within Greenwood-Ashworth Park. Ample parking is typically available at the park's main entrance, providing convenient access to the start of the trail.
Yes, with an 'easy' difficulty rating, this trail is generally suitable for beginners and families. While it features undulating terrain that gives it its 'rollercoaster' name, the overall distance and elevation gain are manageable. Hikers should be prepared for some winding singletrack and occasional small ascents and descents.
The trail is primarily singletrack, winding through natural landscapes. You can expect a dynamic path with numerous ascents and descents, creating a 'rollercoaster' feel. While designed for mountain biking, hikers will find themselves navigating gentle ups and downs, and potentially some berms or small wooden bridges over creek drainages. The scenery often includes wooded areas.
The best time to hike this trail is typically during spring and fall when temperatures are mild and the natural scenery is at its most vibrant, with blooming flora or colorful foliage. Summer can also be pleasant, especially in the mornings or late afternoons, though some sections may be exposed to sun. Winter hiking is possible, but check local conditions for ice or snow.
Yes, dogs are generally welcome on this trail. However, it is essential to keep them on a leash at all times to ensure their safety, protect wildlife, and respect other trail users, including mountain bikers.
Access to Greenwood-Ashworth Park and the Rollercoaster Mountain Bike Trail typically does not require specific hiking permits or entrance fees. However, it's always a good idea to check the official park website or local signage for any updated regulations or special event fees before your visit.
Yes, the route for the Rollercoaster Mountain Bike Trail also passes through sections of the Poolside Trail and the Hillside Mountain Bike Trail, offering opportunities to explore connected routes within the park.
As the name suggests, this trail is also popular with mountain bikers. Hikers should be aware of their surroundings, listen for approaching bikes, and be prepared to yield the right-of-way. It's generally recommended for hikers to step off the trail to allow bikers to pass safely, especially on blind corners or descents.
While the trail doesn't feature specific named viewpoints in the traditional sense, its winding nature through wooded areas and gully explorations offers pleasant natural scenery. The 'rollercoaster' undulations themselves provide a dynamic experience, and you'll encounter natural elements like small creek drainages and varied tree cover.
The Rollercoaster Mountain Bike Trail is approximately 4.46 kilometers (2.77 miles) long. For hikers, it typically takes around 1 hour and 11 minutes to complete, depending on your pace and how often you stop to enjoy the surroundings.
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