
Clive Greenbelt Trail
A surprising urban oasis offering paved trails, abundant wildlife, and unique art installations, perfect for a peaceful escape.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Ideal for wildlife viewing

Clive Greenbelt Trail
Best Time
Ideal for wildlife viewing

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A surprising urban oasis offering paved trails, abundant wildlife, and unique art installations, perfect for a peaceful escape.
"Absolutely love this trail! So surprised there's such an amazing slice of nature deep in the city."

👟 Wear comfy shoes!
The paved trail is great for walking, running, or biking.
🦌 Be quiet for wildlife
Increase your chances of seeing deer and birds by moving quietly.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Wildlife Spotting
Discover deer, birds, chipmunks, and more in this urban nature escape. Listen for frogs and watch for herons!

Paved Path Perfection
Enjoy a smooth, wide, paved trail perfect for biking, running, or a leisurely stroll.

Goat Grazing
See the unique sight of goats helping to maintain the trail's greenery.

Art Installations
Discover sculptures like 'Lair' integrated into the natural landscape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Wildlife Encounters
Trail Connectivity is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear comfy shoes!
The paved trail is great for walking, running, or biking.
🦌 Be quiet for wildlife
Increase your chances of seeing deer and birds by moving quietly.
🗺️ Check trail connections
Connects to Raccoon River Valley Trail for longer adventures.
🐐 See the trail goats!
These furry friends help keep the Greenbelt tidy.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear comfy shoes!
The paved trail is great for walking, running, or biking.
🦌 Be quiet for wildlife
Increase your chances of seeing deer and birds by moving quietly.
🗺️ Check trail connections
Connects to Raccoon River Valley Trail for longer adventures.
🐐 See the trail goats!
These furry friends help keep the Greenbelt tidy.
☀️ Enjoy the tree cover
Gorgeous shade makes it pleasant even on warmer days.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Clive Greenbelt Trail's surprising natural beauty within an urban setting, praising its well-maintained paved paths and the delightful opportunities to spot wildlife like deer and birds. The trail's connectivity to other systems and unique features like art installations and grazing goats add to its appeal, making it a highly recommended spot for various outdoor activities.
"Absolutely love this trail! I was so surprised there ia such an amazing slice if nature deep in the city. There is gorgeous tree cover and if your quiet you may see some deer or other interesting wildlife!"
SimpleLife90
"I finally had a chance to walk a portion of the Clive Greenbelt Trail. It is nicely paved, and wide enough for bikes and walkers/joggers. There is also a nice stream running alongside it with a few bridges."
Jonathan Schulz
"Really fun trail with lots of fun curves to make it a more exciting time out there... hopefully next time we ride it won't be 33mph winds 🤣"
Jeffery Renken
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Clive Greenbelt Trail is situated in Clive, Iowa, a western suburb of Des Moines. It's easily accessible and central to the surrounding communities.
Access points are available from various parks within Clive, offering convenient entry for walkers, runners, and cyclists.
Yes, there is good parking available at several parks along the trail, making it easy to start your journey.
Public transport options may be limited directly to trailheads. It's generally recommended to drive or cycle to an access point. Check local Des Moines transit schedules for potential routes.
Absolutely! The Clive Greenbelt Trail is well-connected to other major trails, most notably the Raccoon River Valley Trail, allowing for extensive exploration.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Clive Greenbelt Trail is a public park and is free to access. There are no tickets or admission fees required.
As an outdoor trail, it is generally accessible from dawn until dusk. Specific park hours at access points may vary, but the trail itself is open for use during daylight hours.
There is no entrance fee to use the Clive Greenbelt Trail. It's a public amenity for everyone to enjoy.
Dogs are generally welcome on the Clive Greenbelt Trail, but they must be kept on a leash at all times. Please be sure to clean up after your pet.
Restroom facilities are typically available at the parks that serve as access points for the trail. It's advisable to check the specific park amenities before your visit.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The trail is primarily paved and wide, making it suitable for various activities like biking, running, and walking. You'll also find some natural areas alongside the path.
Visitors often report seeing deer, various bird species, chipmunks, frogs, and even goats that help maintain the trail.
Yes, it's an excellent bike trail, especially for road bikes or hybrids, due to its smooth, paved surface and connection to other trail systems.
Yes, the trail features art installations, such as the sculpture 'Lair,' which are integrated into the natural environment.
The paved and wide nature of the trail makes it very suitable for strollers, allowing families to enjoy a comfortable outing.
📸 📸 Photography
Look for areas with good tree cover for dappled light, scenic bridges over the stream, and any of the art installations. Wildlife sightings also make for great shots.
Absolutely! The trail is known for its diverse wildlife. Be patient and quiet, and you might capture some amazing photos of deer, birds, and other creatures.
Early mornings and late afternoons often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. This is also prime time for wildlife activity.
The integrated art sculptures, like 'Lair,' offer unique artistic backdrops. The grazing goats also provide a memorable and photogenic subject.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for general scenery and art. If you're focused on wildlife, a telephoto lens (70-200mm or longer) will be beneficial.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🏃♀️ Runners & Cyclists
📸 Nature Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Clive Greenbelt Trail Network
Beyond its connection to the Raccoon River Valley Trail, the Greenbelt itself offers a dynamic experience. The trail is nicely paved and wide, ensuring a comfortable journey for all users, whether you're on a bike, rollerblades, or simply walking. The presence of a stream running alongside it adds to the scenic beauty, with several bridges offering picturesque crossing points.
What truly sets the Greenbelt apart is its surprising abundance of urban wildlife. Despite being within city limits, visitors frequently encounter deer, various bird species, chipmunks, and even frogs. The presence of goats, used for natural land management, adds a unique and charming element to the trail experience. This blend of accessible infrastructure and natural encounters makes the Clive Greenbelt Trail a standout destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Wildlife and Nature on the Greenbelt
Beyond the larger animals, keep an eye out for smaller inhabitants like chipmunks and frogs, especially near the stream. The natural tree cover provides ample habitat and shade, contributing to the trail's appeal as a serene escape. The soundscape is often filled with the chirping of birds and the gentle flow of water, creating a truly immersive nature experience right in the heart of the suburbs.
Adding to the unique charm are the grazing goats that help manage the vegetation along the trail. This eco-friendly approach not only keeps the path tidy but also provides a memorable sight for visitors. Remember to observe wildlife from a distance and maintain a quiet presence to avoid disturbing them, maximizing your chances for observation and ensuring their well-being.




Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit