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Clive Greenbelt Trail route in Clive, IA
Photo: SimpleLife90
View of Clive Greenbelt Trail in Clive, IA
Photo: SimpleLife90
View of Clive Greenbelt Trail in Clive, IA
Photo: Jonathan Schulz

Clive Greenbelt Trail

FreePark
🕑 1-3 hours depending on route length and stops at parks👶 Best for all ages. The smooth, paved surface is ideal for toddlers in strollers, preschoolers on training wheels, and older kids ready to cover more distance on bikes or scooters. Teens enjoy rollerblading or longer bike rides between park destinations.

About

The Clive Greenbelt Trail offers families an accessible, paved pathway perfect for bike rides, scooter adventures, and leisurely stroller walks through one of Iowa's most family-friendly communities. This scenic multi-use trail connects various parks throughout Clive, allowing families to customize their outdoor adventure based on energy levels and interests while enjoying beautiful views along the way.

Highlights

  • Smooth, well-maintained paved surface perfect for all wheeled devices
  • Multiple connected parks offering playground breaks along the route
  • Scenic views of natural areas and green spaces throughout Clive
  • Safe, traffic-free paths ideal for teaching kids to ride bikes
  • Flexibility to create short or long routes based on family needs

Pro Tips

  1. 1.Park at Linnan Park or Campbell Recreation Area for easy trail access with restrooms and playgrounds nearby for breaks
  2. 2.Bring sidewalk chalk to mark your progress or decorate rest stops along the way,kids love tracking how far they've gone
  3. 3.Download an offline map of the trail system beforehand, as the connections between parks can be confusing for first-timers
  4. 4.Pack extra snacks and water bottles since the trail covers significant distance between amenities
  5. 5.Visit on weekday mornings for the quietest experience,weekends can get busy with cyclists and runners

Best Time to Visit

Spring and fall mornings (8-10 AM) or early evenings offer the most comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds. Weekdays are ideal for families with younger children who prefer a calmer environment, while weekends bring a lively community atmosphere.

What to Know

The trail is completely free to use and features multiple access points throughout Clive with parking available at connected parks. While there are no food vendors directly on the trail, restrooms and water fountains are available at major park connections.

Seasonal Notes

The trail is open year-round, with spring and fall offering the most comfortable weather. Summer visits are best done early morning or evening to avoid heat. Winter walking is possible when the trail is cleared, but biking may be limited during snow and ice.

Nearby Eats

Stop by Zombie Burger + Drink Lab in nearby West Des Moines for creative burgers that kids find fun and delicious, or visit Smashville for family-friendly smash burgers and shakes just a short drive from most trail access points.

More Activities Near Clive

Park

Campbell Recreation Area

4.7Free

Campbell Recreation Area is a sprawling family favorite in Clive that delivers everything active families need for a full day of outdoor fun. With expansive playground equipment, wide-open fields perfect for running and playing, well-maintained walking paths, and quality sports facilities, this park has something for every energy level and interest. The picnic shelters make it ideal for birthday parties or casual family gatherings while kids explore the various play areas.

Park

Briarwood Park

4.2Free

Briarwood Park in Clive offers families a well-rounded community park experience with something for everyone. The combination of an engaging playground, sports facilities including baseball fields and tennis courts, plus scenic walking paths makes it perfect for families who want both active play and leisurely outdoor time together.

Museum

Clive Historical Society

$

The Clive Historical Society offers young learners a cozy introduction to local history through hands-on artifacts and vintage photographs that tell the story of Iowa farming and community life. This small, intimate museum is perfect for a quick educational stop that won't overwhelm younger children, with exhibits that help kids connect to how people lived and worked in early Iowa.

Playground

Thornton City Park

5.0Free

Thornton City Park is a charming neighborhood gem that punches above its weight with modern playground equipment, classic swings, and plenty of open space for kids to run wild. The covered picnic areas make it perfect for birthday parties or casual family gatherings, while the well-maintained facilities and 5-star rating reflect the community's pride in this local treasure.