Neal Smith Trail Neal Smith Trail by Lake Saylorville By Joan Dietrich in 4/24/2012 6:09:27 PM | April 20, 2012 This is one of the prettiest trail rides I’ve ever ridden, going through wooded areas and along a 24 mile-long lake. Definitely not a rails-to-trails, lots of hills, curves and elevation! We parked about 9 miles north of Des Moines and rode almost to the north end of the trail in Big Creek Park. The trail is in great condition and well marked. Though there was a strong wind the day we rode, the trail provided good protection. For those who like to camp, this would be a perfect location, with sites right on the trail. There is a beach with swimming allowed. We biked a few miles south of Rt 6, going under I-80. That section of trail is older and not in as good condition but has nice views of the river which runs along side it. You can connect to many other area trails.