Hillside Elementary School

Hillside Elementary School in West Des Moines features a community walking trail system that's perfect for introducing kids to healthy outdoor habits. The trails connect neighborhoods and provide a safe, accessible space for family walks, teaching little ones about fitness while exploring the local community together.

• ✓Connected neighborhood trail system perfect for teaching kids about their community
• ✓Safe, flat paths ideal for beginner walkers, runners, and cyclists
• ✓Free outdoor fitness opportunity for the whole family
• ✓Scenic route through residential areas with plenty of nature to observe

1. 1.Visit after school hours (after 4 PM on weekdays) or on weekends when trails are less busy and school activities won't interrupt your walk
2. 2.Bring bikes, scooters, or strollers - the connected trail system is perfect for wheels and lets kids explore at their own pace
3. 3.Use this as a teaching opportunity - bring a nature journal for kids to document plants, birds, and wildlife they spot along the way
4. 4.Pack water and snacks since this is a school property with limited amenities available to public visitors
5. 5.Make it a scavenger hunt by challenging kids to find specific landmarks or count different types of trees along the route

Weekends or weekday evenings after 4 PM are ideal when school is not in session. Spring and fall offer the most comfortable temperatures for walking, with beautiful seasonal changes that make nature observation more engaging for kids.

This is a public school property, so trail access is best during non-school hours to avoid disrupting classes. Parking is available in the school lot, and the trails are free to use. Restroom access may be limited when school is not in session.

Trails are accessible year-round, but best enjoyed spring through fall. Winter walks are possible but may require snow gear. School is closed summers, making it a quieter time for trail use, though summer break hours may differ.

Stop by Fong's Pizza (1800 Grand Ave) about 2 miles away for their unique Asian-fusion pizza that kids find fun and adventurous, or grab classic kid-friendly fare at Culver's (1731 22nd St) just a short drive away for frozen custard treats after your walk.