Glow Trail Coming to Ankeny: A First-of-Its-Kind Experience in Central Iowa

The City of Ankeny is excited to announce the glow trail, a 425-foot trail feature that will be part of the new High Trestle Trail Experience Park. Scheduled to be completed in the spring of 2025, this trail will be the first glow trail in Greater Des Moines (DSM), serving as the foundation for future projects and amenities in the Experience Park.

What is a Glow Trail?

The glow trail uses phosphorescent materials that absorb sunlight during the day and emit a soft glow at night, creating a visually unique experience without electric lighting. It offers a different way to enjoy and experience the trail after dark. Over 1,500 residents helped shape the glow trail through surveys and meetings. Continued community input will help guide future projects as funding becomes available.

Experience Park

After several years of planning and input from residents and trail users, the City has started construction on the first phase of the Experience Park. This new park will run along both sides of the existing High Trestle Trail from West First Street to the underpass at South Ankeny Boulevard. The approximately three quarters of a mile, 14-acre park will be built out in multiple phases over the next several years and eventually include fun and interactive amenities, public art and unique places for visitors. The glow trail is the first planned attraction in the park. When completed, the Experience Park will provide both residents and visitors with a new recreational experience.

Phase One

Construction is underway for Phase one of the park's design. Phase one includes the construction of the glow trail, installation of new lighting and power, planting 147 shade trees, adding turf, native seeding and landscaping and building low mounds integrated with new trail segments for future art installations. This phase, estimated to cost $1 million, will integrate seamlessly with existing trail infrastructure. The City received a $20,000 public art grant from Bravo Greater Des Moines for the glow trail.

Economic and Community Impact

The introduction of the glow trail and Experience Park is a significant milestone for Ankeny, with wide-ranging benefits for our community and local economy. By offering something unique in DSM, we anticipate increased visitor traffic to Ankeny. This increase in visitor traffic will contribute to Ankeny’s economic growth and placemaking initiatives. Beyond its economic benefits, the glow trail will serve as a new venue for evening walks, bike rides and community events, enhancing residents' quality of life.

Construction Updates

Follow the City of Ankeny on social media where we will provide regular updates on the progress of the glow trail and Experience Park construction. The High Trestle Trail will remain open during construction of the Experience Park.

Looking Forward

The glow trail at the High Trestle Trail Experience Park is a unique addition to Ankeny’s recreation. Opening in spring 2025, it promises to enhance the city’s appeal, drive economic growth, and foster community engagement. Stay tuned for updates as the project progresses.

Whether it’s a morning on the lake or an evening spent exploring Greater Des Moines’ (DSM’s) 800 miles of connected recreational trails, the region has many outdoor options. Don’t miss seeing the High Trestle Bridge, Terra Park or Principal Riverwalk — with attractions like Lauridsen Skatepark or the Robert D. Ray Asian Garden — all along walkways throughout the region.