Gray's Lake Park
About
167-Acre Park With 2-Mile Lake Loop Plus Iconic Pedestrian Bridge
Gray's Lake Park is Des Moines's signature downtown park - 167 acres anchored by a 100-acre lake and a 2-mile crushed-limestone trail loop. The Kruidenier Trail crosses the lake via a colorful illuminated pedestrian bridge - one of Des Moines's most photographed spots.
What Kids Can Do
The 2-mile lake loop is stroller, bike, and scooter friendly - flat crushed limestone all the way around. The illuminated pedestrian bridge lights up at night with color-changing LEDs. Paddleboat, kayak, and standup paddleboard rentals from the Boathouse Memorial Day-Labor Day. Playground at the south end. Fishing piers stocked with bass and bluegill. Open lawn for soccer and kite flying [marked: Boathouse rentals seasonal Memorial Day-Labor Day - winter trail still open].
What's Included
Free day-use of trails, lake, playground, bridge, and fishing piers. Paddleboat and kayak rentals $5-15/hour at the Boathouse.
Experience
Plan 1-3 hours. Almost entirely outdoor - bring water, sun protection. Stroller-friendly throughout. About 2 miles south of downtown Des Moines on Fleur Dr. Free on-site parking at multiple lots. Open daily 5am-10pm.