There’s nothing quite like it—spending time in the great outdoors, especially when you’re off the beaten path! Ask anyone who’s made nature a focal point of one (or all) of their Altoona vacations. They’ll tell you the same thing.
Here, you can hop on a trail that leads to Downtown Des Moines and beyond. Bike to a brewery. Roast s’mores on an open fire. Find a quiet place to fish. Kick back in a canoe. Enjoy the kind of quiet you won’t find in the city. All you have to do is get there and explore!
Can’t miss experiences
Prairie Heritage Park
There’s a little something for everyone at Prairie Heritage Park. Kids of all ages can cool off by the splash pad and chill out beneath the nearby shelter, and the path along the pond is perfect for a relaxing walk. There’s also a beautiful war memorial where visitors can pay their respects to those who have served. Learn more about this beloved Altoona park.
Parks & Trails Map
Tons of parks in Altoona, Iowa connect to the legendary Central Iowa trails system, which means you can hike or bike here from pretty much anywhere in the Des Moines metro! Download our Parks & Trails Map to explore what’s right around the bend.
Altoona’s Great(er) Outdoors
Altoona, Iowa parks and recreation opportunities are among the best in the Hawkeye State. Here, the great outdoors are just that much greater. Read more.
Terrace Hills Golf Course
Established in 1964, Terrace Hills is an 18-Hole, Par 71 Championship course designed for golfers of all levels. In addition to the course, it has a state-of-the-art driving range and short game area for all your practice needs. Terrace Hills is a place to play, practice and host your big event at the heart of Iowa’s entertainment capital. Learn more here.
