Trail: Neal Smith Trail
Features: Grove(s)
River(s)
Meadow(s)
Lake(s)/pond(s)/reservoir(s)
Beach(es)
Geological feature(s)
Scenic viewpoint(s)
Swimming area(s)
Wetland(s)
Activities: Dogs - On leash
Pedestrian - Walking/Hiking/Running
Bicycling (any)
Roller/Inline Skating
Snow - Skiing, cross-country
Wildlife observation - Birds
Swimming
Bicycling - Mountain
Fishing
Skateboarding
Snow - Showshoeing
Swimming - Diving/snorkeling
Hunting (any)
Hunting - Archery
Hunting - Big game
Hunting - Bird
Hunting - Small game
Ice skating
Rock climbing
Snow - Snow play, general
Snow - Snowboarding
Difficulty: Intermediate
Miles: 13 miles
Desc: The designated 13 miles of National Recreation Trail managed by the Corps of Engineers is an internal section of 26 miles, which extends from Des Moines to Big Creek State Park. The trail is asphalt and has available restrooms and bike rentals neraby. Neal Smith wanders through corps managed campgrounds, picnic areas, and fishing spots along the Des Moines River, The trail also features a butterfly garden with resident and migrating butterflies, yellow-headed coneflowers, zinnias, and butterfly bush. Natural Oak Savannah, wetlands, and a 709-acre praire brings visitors back to a natural state of Iowa.
Saylorville Lake is on the Des Moines River 7 miles from Des Moines, accessible from I80 and 35.