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Blue Heron Lake Loop via Raccoon River Park Trail

The Blue Heron Lake Loop offers a peaceful, scenic hike around a lake, featuring views of both water and wetlands. With mostly flat terrain and sections of the path shaded by trees, it’s a popular spot for hikers, joggers, and families, providing accessibility for people of all skill levels. Along the route, you’ll find viewpoints across Blue Heron Lake, a diverse array of birdlife, and occasional views of the nearby Raccoon River, making it a beautiful nature escape close to urban Des Moines. #Hiking #Loop #Lake #Forest #Nature

  • Distance: 3.1 mi
  • Elevation gain: 17 m
  • Maximum elevation: 251 m
  • Elevation loss: 17 m
  • Minimum elevation: 242 m
  • Moving time: 1 h 9 m
  • Moving speed: 2.7 mph
  • Maximum speed: 3.6 mph
  • Total time: 1 h 11 m
  • Global speed: 2.6 mph

Interactive trail map

Trail profile

  • Distance: 3.1 mi
  • Elevation gain: 17 m
  • Maximum elevation: 251 m
  • Elevation loss: 17 m
  • Minimum elevation: 242 m
  • Moving time: 1 h 9 m
  • Moving speed: 2.7 mph
  • Maximum speed: 3.6 mph
  • Total time: 1 h 11 m
  • Global speed: 2.6 mph

About this trail

Name: Blue Heron Lake Loop via Raccoon River Park Trail trail, distance, elevation, map, profile, GPS track

Start: Raccoon River Park Trail, West Des Moines, Polk County, Iowa, 50265, United States (41.55204 -93.73616)

End: Raccoon River Park Trail, West Des Moines, Polk County, Iowa, 50265, United States (41.55217 -93.73600)

Coordinates: 41.54277 -93.73701 41.55471 -93.71758

Gear up for your next adventure:

🧤Hiking Gloves - Warm and durable gloves for cold-weather walks
🍱Food Containers - Reusable containers for outdoor meals
🧗Locking Carabiners - Secure gear to your pack or for light technical use
🎿Telescopic Trekking Poles - Reduces knee strain on steep topographic descents
👖Hiking Trousers - Durable trousers designed for rough terrain

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