Blue Heron Lake Loop
3.2 mi
Distance
1 hrs 46 min
Time
terrain
157 ft
Elev Gain
Rate this Hike
★★★★★
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Located in a developing area of West Des Moines, Iowa this Urban Trail woodland hike winds through a hardwood forest made up of Hickory, Oak, and Walnut trees. The trail system is made up of an outer loop and several smaller inner loops that are all connected. Total distance is just over four miles with an elevation change under 200 feet. The trails are easy to follow and range in width between three and five feet of packed and worn dirt, which will become muddy after a heavy rain. All intersections are marked with maps and there are emergency location markers and benches along the trails. This is a fun little trail but be warned that while on the east side trail there is a lot of road noise as the trail runs parallel with a heavily trafficked road. After reaching the halfway point, along the Raccoon River, the woods opens up and the ground is covered with wild flowers. The tree canopy filters the sun light illuminating sections of the wild flowers. Depending on the time of year you may need bug spray, but bug spray won’t work on those spiders that stretch their webs across the trail trying to ensnare you. Bring plenty of water to drink as it does get humid. This is a superior Urban Trail suitable for all ages and experience levels. Enjoy!
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