Sites along the Des Moines River offer a mix of natural and urban improvements, bringing a greater connection to recreational activities along the water.
On the Des Moines River
You can find Site 21 at the Cottonwood Recreation Area. This site currently offers:
Used for canoe and kayak access, this site will move downstream where it will be closer to the river channel. Additional future improvements will include:
On the Des Moines River
You can find site 26 along the Neal Smith Trail and Ding Darling Greenway. This site currently offers:
Click here to watch a guided tour of this paddling route.
This site is a hub for both water and land-based recreation, so restrooms are planned to accommodate more visitors.
On the Des Moines River
Site 48 is located within Des Moines’ Prospect Park. There’s lots to see and do here, including:
From athletics to watersports, future improvements include:
On the Des Moines River
Site 51 lies within the City of Des Moines and features the Birdland Marina, home to the Des Moines Rowing Club. This site currently offers:
In the future, Birdland Marina will serve as the primary put-in location for the downtown water trails operations. New additions to the site will coordinate with the City of Des Moines’ Birdland Masterplan and will offer:
On the Des Moines River
This site makes up part of Polk County Conservation’s Yellow Banks Park. There are many existing amenities to enjoy, such as:
Click here to watch a guided tour of this paddling route.
Other future improvements include:
On the Des Moines River
The Des Moines River’s final site is found within the Red Rocks Wildlife Management Area. This site currently offers:
Improvements will benefit park visitors, paddlers, anglers and more. They include:
This project isn't quite done yet, but we're hard at work preparing this water trail for public use. These improvements will ensure a safe, enjoyable experience for all users while providing the necessary protection for this important environment. Be sure to check back periodically for updates on this water trail, and in the meantime, feel free to explore our other amazing amenities in and along our waterways.
Site 4 is just upstream of Saylorville Lake, along Highway 17. It is currently used by paddlers to exit the Des Moines River.
Proposed improvements to this site will improve safety and access for paddlers and others accessing the waterway.
Site 10 connects the Polk City Sports Complex with Saylorville Lake. You’ll find plenty to do nearby.
Site 46 runs along Euclid Avenue near the River Place complex in Des Moines. This site is connected to the Sycamore and Trestle Trail systems, providing opportunity for multiple recreational activities.
Benefits all park visitors both on and off the water.
Site 64 can be found at Harriet Street, offering a gravel parking lot and motorized boat access.
The Harriet Street site will serve as a primary takeout location for paddlers completing the future downtown run.Improvements to the site benefit anglers, paddlers and other park visitors.
Whether you love to spend your weekend under the stars or paddling the Des Moines River, there’s something for everyone on ICON water trails. Learn more about the activities awaiting you.
EXPLORE ACTIVITIES
Bathrooms
Biking
Birding
Boating
Camping
Fishing
Food & Beverage
Hiking
Kayak & Canoe Lockers
Kayaking
Parking
Pet Friendly
Picnic
Playground
Rentals