Create Your Own Iconic Adventure

Whether you’re a water enthusiast or enthusiastic about relaxing on the shore, ICON offers something for everyone. Learn more about the activities you’ll find along 150-plus miles of water trails.

Camping

Recharge as you sleep under the stars. Find a popular campsite or try one that’s off the beaten path.

ICON badge with a silhouette of a tent and campfire
ICON badge with a silhouette of a cardinal

Bird Watching

Catch a glimpse of a purple martin or goldfinch along the Raccoon River. Learn more about the birds you might spot on ICON’s trails.

Biking

See Central Iowa from two wheels. Discover the hundreds of miles of paved and unpaved trails the region offers.

ICON badge with a silhouette of a dad and son riding bikes
ICON badge with a silhouette of the downtown skyline

Downtown Des Moines

Downtown Des Moines is home to a vibrant arts and culture scene. Find out more about the attractions waiting for you downtown.

Fishing

Cast your line in the heart of the metro. Or find fish in a place where no one can find you.

ICON badge with a silhouette of an adult and child fishing
ICON badge of a silhouette of a kayaker

Kayaking

Start your journey at beginner-friendly Beaver Creek or traverse the advanced rapids at Center Street Dam once improvements are complete. Whatever your skill level, there’s a creek, river or lake for you to explore.

Surfing

Surfing in the Midwest? You betcha. Once complete, you’ll be able to catch waves next to downtown buildings. From whitewater rafting to high-energy kayaking, there will be no shortage of high-energy activities on the Des Moines River.

ICON badge of a river surfer
ICON badge with a silhouette of river otters

Nature

ICON is home to hundreds of wildlife species. Meet playful otters while kayaking. Reel in and pan-fry bluegill at your campsite. See who can spot the most birds while wading or hiking the trails.

Conservation

Preserving natural resources is at the heart of everything we do. ICON is committed to improving water quality and safety along the trails.

ICON badge of a silhouette of a heron walking in the water
Woman standing in the woods with the sun shining through leaves above her

Support This Worthy Cause

Do your part to support the vision of ICON Water Trails, creating a legacy for generations to appreciate. Every donation makes a difference for today, and years to come.

Donate Now

Choose Your Adventure at ICON

ICON offers something for everyone, from water enthusiasts to those who are enthusiastic about relaxing on the shoreline. Learn more about the access points and activities they offer.

Explore Access Points
A nighttime scene of a group of campers sitting next to a fire along the river's shore. The canoe is lit with a small light and the two tents also have lights inside of them