Brown's Woods: Iowa's Largest Urban Forest

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Discover Iowa's largest urban forest in West Des Moines: Hike scenic trails, observe wildlife, and escape into nature at Brown's Woods.

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Brown's Woods

Escape into nature at Brown's Woods, a 486-acre urban forest in West Des Moines. Explore over four miles of trails beneath a canopy of oak and hickory trees, a haven for hikers and migratory birds alike.

A brief summary to Brown's Woods

465 Brown's Woods Dr, West Des Moines, Iowa, 50265, US
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Monday 6:30 am-10:30 pm
Tuesday 6:30 am-10:30 pm
Wednesday 6:30 am-10:30 pm
Thursday 6:30 am-10:30 pm
Friday 6:30 am-10:30 pm
Saturday 6:30 am-10:30 pm
Sunday 6:30 am-10:30 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Brown's Woods.

Wear appropriate footwear for hiking, as the trails can be uneven and may have gravel or dirt surfaces.
Bring binoculars for birdwatching, especially during the spring and fall migration seasons.
Remember to bring water, especially during warmer months, as there are no water fountains on the trails.
Keep dogs on a six-foot leash and clean up after them to help preserve the park's natural environment.

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Getting There

Driving

Brown's Woods is located at 465 Brown's Woods Dr, West Des Moines. From I-235, take the 60th Street exit south. Continue on 60th Street until you reach Brown's Woods Drive. Turn east onto Brown's Woods Drive, and the entrance to the park will be on your right. Parking is available at the park entrance. Parking is free.
Public Transport

While there isn't a direct bus route to Brown's Woods, you can take a DART (Des Moines Area Regional Transit Authority) bus to a nearby location and then walk or take a short taxi/ride-share to the park. Several local routes service the West Des Moines area. Check the DART website for the most up-to-date route information and schedules. A single ride on DART costs $1. From the nearest bus stop, a taxi or ride-share to Brown's Woods would cost approximately $8-$12.
Walking

If you are nearby in West Des Moines, walking to Brown's Woods is a good option. Use a map app to guide you to 465 Brown's Woods Dr, West Des Moines. From Walnut Woods State Park, head east on Walnut Woods Drive, then turn north onto S 60th St, then east onto Brown's Woods Drive. The park entrance will be on your right. There are no sidewalks on Brown's Woods Drive.

Discover more about Brown's Woods

Brown's Woods, located in West Des Moines, Iowa, stands as the state's largest urban forest, offering a natural escape within the city. This 486-acre preserve features a diverse landscape, including rolling hills, small streams, and a dense canopy of oak and hickory trees.The park boasts over four miles (5 km) of trails perfect for hiking and nature observation. These trails wind through the forest, providing visitors with opportunities to experience the beauty of the Iowa landscape. The trails are designed for foot traffic only; bicycles, horses, and motorized vehicles are prohibited to prevent erosion.Brown's Woods is also an important stopover for migratory birds, particularly during the spring and fall seasons. Birdwatchers can spot a variety of species, including warblers and vireos, as they pass through the area.The land is named after Tallmadge E. Brown, a Des Moines lawyer who acquired large tracts of land in the late 1800s. Polk County Conservation Board acquired the property in 1972.Visitors can enjoy a range of activities at Brown's Woods, including hiking, cross-country skiing (in winter), and nature photography. The park also features picnic tables and restrooms for added convenience. For those interested in contributing to conservation efforts, a Chronolog station allows visitors to document changes in the timber over time.