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The Waveland Trail runs through the historic neighborhoods of Waveland Park, Waveland Woods and Waterbury in western Des Moines. Along the way, the trail passes a community center, library, golf course and community gardens. The trail also provides a useful connection from Des Moines' west side to much of central Iowa's extensive trail system via the Walnut Creek Trail at its southern end.
The northern portion of the Waveland Trail runs on the western edge of the tranquil grounds of Glendale Cemetery, the site of which was purchased by Des Moines in 1886. There is currently a gap in the trail between University Avenue and Interstate 235 along the Waveland Golf Course. A sidewalk should prove adequate for pedestrians, but cyclists may want to ride on 56th Street for this section. The trail resumes at the bridge over I-235 and continues south through dense woods to the direct connection to the Walnut Creek Trail.
There are no dedicated parking lots for the Waveland Trail, but parking is available at the Northwest Community Center and Franklin Avenue Library. Both are located at the trail's northern endpoint on Franklin Avenue between 48th Street and 55th Street.
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