Des Moines Ride Guide
Des Moines sits in the heart of trail country — RAGBRAI's home state — with the famous High Trestle Trail and a deep network of paved paths radiating into the farmland. Wide-open Iowa wind is the whole game.
Climatology
Hot humid summers (62–86°F), cold snowy winters (12–32°F), and pleasant spring and fall. The flat, open terrain leaves you fully exposed to a strong, persistent prairie wind.
Season by season
Spring
Apr–MayImproving and green, but often windy. Layer for cool mornings.
Summer
Jun–AugWarm, humid, and breezy. Plan the loop around the wind direction.
Fall
Sep–OctThe best season — cool, dry, and colorful across the trails.
Winter
Nov–MarCold and snowy. Seize the rare dry, calm day.
Signature rides
High Trestle Trail
25 miFlat rail trail to the landmark half-mile bridge over the Des Moines River valley — spectacular at dusk.
Raccoon River Valley Trail
50 miOne of the country's longest paved loops, winding through small towns west of the metro.
Neal Smith Trail
26 miRiverside path from downtown out to Saylorville Lake. Ride into the south wind first for an easier return.
Frequently asked
Is Des Moines a good place to cycle?
Des Moines sits in the heart of trail country — RAGBRAI's home state — with the famous High Trestle Trail and a deep network of paved paths radiating into the farmland. Wide-open Iowa wind is the whole game.
What is the weather like for cycling in Des Moines?
Hot humid summers (62–86°F), cold snowy winters (12–32°F), and pleasant spring and fall. The flat, open terrain leaves you fully exposed to a strong, persistent prairie wind.
What are the best bike rides in Des Moines?
Standout routes include High Trestle Trail (25 mi), Raccoon River Valley Trail (50 mi), Neal Smith Trail (26 mi).
Nearby guides
From the blog
What the 0–10 Ride Score means, which weather factors drive it, and how to use it to pick the best day and time to ride.
A temperature-by-temperature guide to dressing for cold-weather cycling — from cool 60°F mornings down to freezing rides.
Wind is the most underrated factor in cycling. Here's how to read it and plan routes so the hardest effort comes first.
Want today's Ride Score and what to wear in Des Moines?