Type: Rail Trail
Length: 17 miles
Surface: Paved
The paved trail crosses a few gravel roads.
Condition
Above Average
Grade - Gentle Grades
Amenities
Description
Despite its name, the trail runs north-south from Water Works Park in Des Moines to Martensdale. It is mostly open with some tree canopy areas and a few road underpasses. It passes right through Willow Creek golf course so be aware of golf cart crossings.
Use caution at the intersection of SE Soteria Ave and SW 72nd Ave. While not typically busy, there are no crossing lights and it is easy to accidently continue west on the sidewalk instead of heading north-south.
Location - Where is this Trail?
- Des Moines
- Orilla
- Cumming
- Churchville
- Martensdale
Trailheads
Des Moines
- South shelter in Water Works Park
- Across the street from 4343 George Flagg Parkway
- Street parking on SW 46th south of Park Avenue
West Des Moines
- SE Pine Avenue and SW 72nd Ave (near Willow Creek golf course)
Orilla
- SE Orilla Rd near The Chicken, 4221 SE Orilla Road
Cumming
- G14 Highway and 25th Avenue (southwest Cumming)
Churchville
Martensdale
- Iowa Avenue and Border Street, north of city stadium
Sites & Attractions
History of the Trail
The Great Western Trail opened in 1992, 100 years after its establishment as a rail line from Des Moines to St. Joseph, Missouri. It is named for the Chicago Great Western Company whose trains operated on this line from 1892 to 1968.
Source: Polk County Iowa
Future Plans
Planned Mileage: 0 miles -
Contributors
The following members have contributed to the above Trail content.
This trail was last edited by War on Jul 9, 2021.
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