Find the top rated atv trails in Ames, whether you're looking for an easy short atv trail or a long atv trail, you'll find what you're looking for. Click on a atv trail below to find trail descriptions, trail maps, photos, and reviews.
We started in Akron and rode about 18 miles north. Loved it!!!
Flood waters earlier this year have damaged a section of trail between Rolfe and Bradgate. East of Melson Park / Pilot Creek Road the trail was some large areas of trail that have been washed out. The trail is virtually unrideable. The bridge over the Des Moines River just west of Bradgate has been cleared and is open. But my estimate is there are several hundred years of trail that have been washed out. I’d suggest either of the short road options between Melson Park & Bradgate
I rode from 1st street in Ankeny north to Slater then west to just outside of Perry. The map shows it is broken just west of Woodward but it in fact continues into Perry. I think it’s the HT Trail to Raccoon RV trail but there is not a map for that one. Definitely a 5 star trail! Traveling cyclist Facebook
I said I rode in 2025 but I see no way to edit. I rode Sept 2024. Traveling cyclist Facebook
I rode this trail in mid September 2025. I started at the north end not knowing there is a rail closure at Count Line Road and Hwy 28. It continues to a mile and a half north of the Chicken Restaurant. The trail was open the rest of the way to Martinsdale. The older asphalt sections have plenty of cracks and is rough. The cement sections are heaven. I think eventually it will all be cement. Wonderful mostly shaded ride through the country. I give it five stars even with the rough sections. It’s another great long trail away from the death machines.
I rode the trail from Cherry Glen Rec Area into Des Moines for 15 miles. There are some older sections that are a bit rough but there are also some new cement sections that are fabulous. It winds through great scenery and even with rough areas I would rate this trail five stars. I highly recommend checking this trail out! Traveling cyclist Facebook
We were hoping to ride this entire trail this morning but were unsuccessful. We started south out of Cumming and it was SO bumpy that we turned around after about three miles. Riding north of Cumming we encountered the same bumpy patched up trail until we encountered a trail closed sign. I couldn’t really enjoy the scenery as I had to keep a close eye on the trail. The trail at the street crossings was concrete for a few yards on either side which was wonderful. We left the trail after only riding nine miles. We were disappointed in the condition of the Great Western trail and won’t ride it again unless it gets a major facelift.
Beautiful trail, highly recommend! A bit bumpy in spots, but very well maintained!
Super connector trail between Johnston trails and Des Moines trails. Just one of many good trails in the greater Des Moines area. 5 stars Traveling cyclist Facebook
I have ridden this trail on numerous occasions though I have not seen the bridge lit up at night. There is another reason to return to this fantastic trail! 5 stars from this rider. Traveling cyclist Facebook
A friend and I from Virginia stopped to do the High Trestle Trail in mid July on our way to South Dakota and enjoyed it very much. Very unique, beautiful area and the other bicyclists were very friendly. We stopped at the Flat Tire for a snack and my friend had a beer. Trail surface was clean. It was a great way to break up our long drive.
Seb
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