Easter Lake Park

Park Overview

Located on the south side of Des Moines, Easter Lake Park spreads across 178 acres of natural beauty. Established in 1967, there's a bit of Iowa history here - the park sits on what was once Polk County's last operating coal mine, which closed its doors in 1959.

At the heart of this green escape lies the 165-acre Easter Lake, formed by damming Yeader Creek. The tranquil setting provides a peaceful retreat not far from the city.

Trails and Historic Touches

A 4.1-mile paved trail circles the lake, ideal for your morning jog, a leisurely walk, or a family bike ride. The eastern and northern sections are mostly flat and smooth, while the western and southern portions offer some hills for those looking for a bit more challenge.

On hot summer days, you'll appreciate the southwest section of the trail, where trees create a completely shaded canopy. The entire trail is handicap accessible and well-maintained, making outdoor recreation available to visitors of all abilities.

As you explore, you'll cross several bridges, including the historic Owens Covered Bridge - a charming piece of history relocated to the park in 1968 and now the only covered bridge remaining in Polk County. A recently added bridge spans across the lake, making it easier to navigate the entire park.

Amenities for Everyone

Planning a family gathering or celebration? The park offers multiple picnic areas with shelters overlooking the lake, providing shaded spots with tables and benches for a comfortable outdoor meal.

There are modern playgrounds scattered within the park, including an all-inclusive playground near the beach area with accessible play structures. When temperatures rise, the nearby splash pad becomes a favorite spot, although be prepared for chilly water in spring!

The park has a boat ramp for lake access, including specialized kayak launches with stabilizing features that help with getting in and out of the water. During summer months, you can rent boats, kayaks, and other watercraft at the concession stand if you don't have your own.

Fishing enthusiasts, take note: Easter Lake is stocked with walleye, bass, crappie, bluegill, and catfish. The multiple fishing docks provide good spots for fishing, including teaching children, and catches are fairly common.

In summer, you can cool off at the swimming beach with its floating dock. The beach area has recently been renovated and expanded, but you should know there are no lifeguards on duty.

Recent Refreshes

If you haven't visited in a few years, you'll notice some significant changes. The Easter Lake Watershed Project has transformed the park, focusing on improving water quality, reducing sedimentation, and creating better recreational spaces.

The lake has been dredged, shorelines restored, and watershed management practices implemented to cut down on pollution from urban runoff. Long-time visitors often comment on how impressive these improvements have been.

What's New for 2024

The park continues to evolve with the addition of the Athene North Shore Recreation Area, designed to be one of the country's most universally accessible parks - a welcome enhancement to Easter Lake's already inclusive atmosphere.

The updated beach area now features modern facilities, a concession stand, and water sport rentals. You'll also find clean, accessible restroom facilities conveniently located around the grounds.

Wildlife and Natural Beauty

Keep your eyes open for the diverse wildlife that calls this park home. You might spot turtles sunning themselves by the water, duck families paddling along, or various bird species flitting through the trees. The dedicated pollinator garden not only explains the pollination process but attracts bees and small yellow birds.

Dog owners will feel right at home here. The paths are dog-friendly, with waste bag dispensers along the trails and even a dog fountain for your thirsty companions. For even more canine fun, the nearby Ewing Dog Park offers additional space for your four-legged friends to run and play.