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Southwoods Loop — 1.0 mi

  • Southwoods Park 350 South 35th Street West Des Moines, IA, 50265 United States (map)

So, maybe construction of new trails and maintenance work on existing trails meant I didn't always know *exactly* where I was, but we are still at 100% on my promise that no one gets lost or left behind! I really enjoyed the fact that both creek crossings have been completed and we were able to explore the south loop. Thank you for joining me! I hope you can make it to Sycamore on Tuesday, September 3rd!


Join us for a loop or two of the trails at Southwoods Park! This sweet park is just off 35th Street, south of Mills Civic Parkway, in West Des Moines. Meet by 10:00 a.m. in the disc golf course parking lot.

We will walk up the paved trail from the lot to the singletrack and go all the way around the outer loop. Then we can check out the views from the small paved loop at the top of the hill. The total distance is one mile. We will walk slowly, think “stroll,” and no one will be left behind. If the dirt is muddy, we will walk on the paved trail around the West Des Moines City Hall pond instead.

The city keeps adding more trail. So, if anyone wants a longer walk and doesn’t mind the risk of getting lost, we can head back out and see what they have done. (My friends have posted a video of some of the new stuff.)

Southwoods Park is hilly. The trails here are relatively clear of roots and rocks, compared to other local dirt trails. Hiking poles are useful, but not a necessity.


A few times a month I lead a Soft Trail Stroll on a different trail. This free series is designed to help people looking for a simple way to become more active and to increase appreciation of our local soft trails.

What is a soft trail? Simply, it is an unpaved trail. Its surface may be dirt, grass, or crushed rock/gravel. I am an avid mountain biker and know all these trails very well. I can guarantee that no one will get lost!


Please contact me if you have any questions.

Learn more about Southwoods Park from West Des Moines Parks & Recreation.

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August 10

Ewing Park “Up 4 Down 1” — 2.0 mi

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September 3

Sycamore Trails High Line — 1.5 mi