Iowa Confluence Water Trails

Inspired to reconnect Iowans with their river roots, the Des Moines Area Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) and other stakeholder groups set out to transform 150 miles of Central Iowa waterways into a recreational destination. Through a multi-year collaboration, the Des Moines MPO, ISG, and project stakeholders created the Greater Des Moines Water Trails and Greenways Master Plan to restore water quality and reconnect people with nature through over 80 new amenities and access points.

The plan integrates innovative designs, water access, green infrastructure, connectivity, and public art along nine rivers and creeks—using conservation as a vehicle to drive economic growth. Community engagement was key, blending small group meetings with broader outreach efforts to create a shared vision for enhanced recreational opportunities.

ISG completed a Regional Engineering Feasibility Study to assess site conditions, permitting needs, and develop conceptual renderings, cost estimates, and schedules. To date, ISG has completed design and implementation for seven access points, ranging from urban parks to rural portages. Design considerations took a trilateral approach around safe water access, diverse onsite features and recreational amenities, and sustainability practices to improve water quality.

Birdland Marina‍

The Birdland Marina Masterplan buildout includes motorized boat access, restrooms, park facilities, and hospitality options. Once fully constructed, the site will serve as the primary outfitter for ICON Water Trails operations and tie into the economic revitalization plan for the surrounding Des Moines neighborhood and its overarching City park programming.

Prospect Park‍

Prospect Park enhancements complement existing programs and support future fishing and hiking opportunities, while adhering to U.S. Army Corps of Engineers standards. Motorized and non-motorized ADA access is available to the Des Moines River. Turf grass was replaced with native pollinator species, promoting wildlife habitat. Streambank restoration and instream stability measures improve water quality.

Harriet Street Corridor‍

Located on the east end of Des Moines, Harriet Street is the main take-out point for Des Moines and Raccoon River paddlers. It features an ADA accessible launch, fishing pools, boat access, parking, restrooms, trails, a viewing plaza, and bike racks. Enhancements include 1,200 feet of streambank stabilization, wetland restoration, native plantings, and storm sewer daylighting to treat and filter water before it enters the Des Moines River.

Beaver Creek Access – Johnston, IA‍

Design improvements for Beaver Creek access, a key launch point in the Beaver Creek Trail System, included a hard trail, an updated parking area, a concrete access ramp, creek bank armoring, and wayfinding signage.

Lew Clarkson Park – Johnston, IA‍

Lew Clarkson Park provides a relaxing, natural setting with soft trails and limestone stairs for easy access to Beaver Creek. Interpretive signage guides visitors through the water trails and park networks. An erosion and sediment control plan was developed to stabilize natural landscapes and protect water quality.

Mally’s Park Water Access – Polk County, IA‍

The 37-acre Mally's Weh-Weh-Neh-Kee Park features wooded soft trails, a picnic shelter, and a playground. It serves as a major trailhead for the Gay Lea Wilson and Chichaqua Valley Trails. Enhancements include a new water access area, creekbank protection, native plantings, improved trails, interpretive signage, and a bike rack.

Raccoon River Portage at Raccoon River Park – City of Van Meter, IA‍

A new portage access allows for paddling opportunities to Blue Heron Lake, benefiting park visitors, trail users, anglers, and boaters.