Best Destinations for Extreme Sports in Des Moines, Iowa, United States

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Best Destinations for Extreme Sports in Des Moines, Iowa, United States

1. Adventureland Park

Enjoy thrilling roller coasters and family-friendly rides at this popular amusement park.
  • Diverse Ride Options: Offers a mix of heart-pounding roller coasters, gentle rides for young kids, and everything in between.
  • Seasonal Attractions: Features special events and attractions throughout the year, including Halloween Haunt and Christmas Town.
  • Group Discounts: Provides group discounts for parties of 15 or more, making it a great choice for families and large groups.

2. Pleasant Creek Zipline Adventures

Zip through the treetops at this zipline adventure park in the heart of Des Moines.
  • Scenic Views: Offers breathtaking views of the surrounding woodlands and countryside.
  • Safety Measures: Prioritizes safety with experienced guides, top-notch equipment, and thorough training sessions.
  • Team Building Activities: Provides team building activities for corporate groups looking to boost camaraderie and collaboration.

3. Rock Climbing Center of Iowa

Test your limits at this state-of-the-art rock climbing facility in Des Moines.
  • Varied Routes: Features a wide variety of routes for all skill levels, from beginners to experienced climbers.
  • Training Programs: Offers training programs and workshops to help you improve your climbing skills.
  • Youth Programs: Provides youth programs for kids to learn the sport of rock climbing in a fun, safe environment.

4. High Trestle Trail Bike Ride

Cycle along one of the most beautiful bike trails in America with stunning views and unique architecture.
  • Scenic Views: Offers breathtaking views of the Des Moines River Valley, bridges, and surrounding countryside.
  • Length and Difficulty: Spans 25 miles with varying terrain, making it suitable for both beginner and advanced cyclists.
  • Unique Architecture: Features a stunning, illuminated trestle bridge that is a must-see attraction.

5. Wakeboarding at Prairie Creek Lake

Experience the thrill of wakeboarding on the waters of Prairie Creek Lake, perfect for both beginners and experts.
  • Equipment Rental: Offers wakeboards, life jackets, and other necessary equipment for rent.
  • Instructional Programs: Provides instructional programs for those new to the sport of wakeboarding.
  • Clear Waters: Enjoys crystal-clear waters ideal for wakeboarding and other water sports.

6. Kitesurfing at Saylorville Lake

Experience the exhilaration of kitesurfing on the expansive waters of Saylorville Lake.
  • Wind Conditions: Ideal for experienced kitesurfers seeking strong, consistent winds.
  • Equipment Rental: Rents kitesurfing equipment for those who don't have their own gear.
  • Instructional Programs: Offers instructional programs for newcomers to the sport of kitesurfing.

7. Des Moines River Canoeing

Embark on a peaceful canoe trip down the Des Moines River, taking in the sights and sounds of nature.
  • Peaceful Environment: Provides a tranquil environment for a relaxing paddle.
  • Rental Options: Offers canoe rentals for visitors who don't have their own equipment.
  • Scenic Views: Enjoys stunning views of the surrounding woodlands, wildlife, and historic landmarks.

8. Skateboarding at Brenton Skatepark

Shred some gnarly tricks at this world-class skate park in Des Moines.
  • Varied Terrain: Offers a variety of ramps, ledges, and obstacles for all skill levels.
  • Events and Competitions: Hosts skateboarding events and competitions throughout the year.
  • Free Admission: Provides free admission, making it a budget-friendly option for extreme sports enthusiasts.

9. Urban Axe Throwing

Test your accuracy and skill with axe throwing in this urban setting.
  • Indoor/Outdoor Options: Offers both indoor and outdoor axe-throwing lanes for year-round fun.
  • Instructional Programs: Provides instructional sessions to help you improve your axe-throwing skills.
  • Group Events: Ideal for group events, such as birthday parties, team building activities, and corporate outings.

10. Paintball at Battlezone Xtreme

Engage in tactical paintball battles at this state-of-the-art facility.
  • Varied Terrain: Offers varied terrain, including wooded areas and urban environments.
  • Equipment Rental: Rents paintball gear for those who don't have their own equipment.
  • Instructional Programs: Provides instructional programs for newcomers to the sport of paintball.

11. Go-Kart Racing at Karting USA

Rev your engines and race through the twists and turns of this go-kart track.
  • Fast Speeds: Allows for high speeds, reaching up to 50 mph on the adult course.
  • Kid-Friendly Courses: Offers a kid-friendly course with slower speeds and smaller karts.
  • Group Races: Allows for group races, making it a fun activity for families and friends.

12. Bungee Trampoline at Launch Pad Extreme

Defy gravity with bungee trampolines that let you jump to new heights.
  • Diverse Jumping Styles: Offers a variety of jumping styles, such as flips and twists.
  • Safety Measures: Uses safety harnesses and experienced staff to ensure a safe jumping experience.
  • Group Activities: Ideal for group activities, such as birthday parties, team building events, and family outings.

13. Indoor Skydiving at iFly Des Moines

Experience the thrill of skydiving indoors without the need for a plane or parachute.
  • Safe Environment: Uses state-of-the-art technology to ensure a safe, controlled indoor skydiving experience.
  • Instructional Programs: Offers instructional programs for first-timers and more advanced flyers.
  • Group Activities: Ideal for group activities, such as birthday parties, team building events, and family outings.

14. Hot Air Balloon Rides with Balloons Aloft

Drift gently through the skies on a hot air balloon ride, taking in breathtaking views of Des Moines.
  • Scenic Views: Offers stunning views of Des Moines and the surrounding countryside.
  • Group Rides: Allows for group rides, making it a unique experience for friends and family.
  • Sunrise/Sunset Rides: Offers sunrise and sunset rides for unforgettable experiences.

15. Riverboat Cruises at Des Moines River

Cruise down the Des Moines River aboard a historic riverboat for a relaxing and educational experience.
  • Historical Significance: Provides insights into the rich history of the Des Moines area.
  • Scenic Views: Offers stunning views of the city, river, and surrounding countryside.
  • Group Discounts: Provides group discounts for parties of 15 or more, making it a great choice for families and large groups.