Where to find the best parkrun near you

Des Moines parkrun participants logged 187 finishers at the most recent Saturday event at Gray's Lake Park.

The city's wellness scene has pushed more residents toward no-cost group runs on weekends, especially as local parks record higher foot traffic during summer months. Des Moines Parks and Recreation reported a 22 percent rise in organized outdoor fitness registrations between 2024 and 2025, with Saturday mornings seeing the largest share of new sign-ups.

Gray's Lake Park on the south side

The Gray's Lake loop at 2100 SW 12th Street hosts the main Des Moines parkrun each Saturday at 8 a.m. Runners complete two laps around the 1.4-mile paved path that circles the lake and connects to the Bill Riley Trail. The site offers free parking in the main lot off SW 12th and restrooms near the boathouse that open at 7:30 a.m.

Water Works Park alternative

Water Works Park at 2201 George Flagg Parkway provides the second weekly option, with its 5K course winding through the 1,500-acre grounds along the Raccoon River. The event also starts at 8 a.m. and uses the central parking area near the ranger station. Both locations remain open to walkers and slower runners, and volunteers record times for every finisher.

City data from 2025 shows average weekly attendance at the two Des Moines parkrun sites reached 214 participants, up from 168 the prior year. The events cost nothing to join and require only advance registration on the parkrun website. Runners receive a barcode they scan after crossing the finish line, with results posted online the same afternoon.

Participants should arrive 15 minutes early for the pre-event briefing. Bring a reusable water bottle, since neither site provides free hydration after the run. Those new to the format can start with the walking group that finishes in roughly 45 minutes. Check the parkrun Des Moines page each Thursday for any weather-related changes to the schedule.