This Iconic Hiking Trail In Iowa Is One Of The Coolest Outdoor Adventures You’ll Ever Take

I love hiking, but it can take a lot to get ready for a hiking adventure in the great outdoors. Many of Iowa's best hiking trails are located deep in state parks, filled with challenging terrain and unique geography. When I'm not up for that undertaking, that's where urban trails come in - and the best urban trail in Iowa might be as central as it gets. It's located right in the heart of West Des Moines, Iowa's capital and biggest city, at Raccoon River Park. The Blue Heron Lake Loop Trail is a simple 3.3-mile loop that follows even terrain and is suitable for all skill levels, but it's anything but boring. It'll take you past some of the city's most beautiful scenery, and even a surprising man-made development or two. Read on to discover why this iconic urban trail might be your next great adventure.

Raccoon River Park is one of Iowa's best urban parks, and it's home to one of its best urban trails.

The 3.3-mile loop trail is accessible and provides stunning views all through the year.

It takes you past some unique terrain that offers stunning water views...

Including what many consider one of the best urban beaches in all of Iowa.

Keep an eye out for a unique monument that explains some of the park's history. It's a great place to take a break.

And don't worry about winter weather - the park is open, accessible and uniquely beautiful under a blanket of snow.

Have you walked the Blue Heron Lake Loop Trail in Raccoon River Park? Tell us what you thought of this beautiful urban trail in Iowa in the comments section! You can see more pictures of the trail on the Blue Heron Lake Loop Trail page on AllTrails, and visit the West Des Moines website for Raccoon River Park to see what else is waiting for you at this urban park. And be sure to check out our past coverage of the park's gorgeous urban beach!

If you're planning more hiking adventures, a subscription to AllTrails+ will be well worth it. You'll gain access to hundreds of guides with step-by-step directions for the perfect hike.