Kilen Woods State Park
Des Moines River Trail
Trail Overview
Region
Western and Southwestern Minnesota
Difficulty
Easy to Moderate
Trail Distance
2.5 miles round trip
Estimated Hike Duration
About 1 hour
Elevation Gain
Minimal to moderate along river bluffs
Best Season To Visit
Spring through fall
Serene River Valley Hike
Photo of overlook at Kilen Woods State Park is courtesy of McGhiever via Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0 Unported).
Kilen Woods State Park offers quiet hiking trails that follow the Des Moines River, winding through wooded bluffs and open prairie. The Des Moines River Trail provides a blend of shade, scenic river overlooks, and peaceful solitude.
This park is a hidden gem in southwestern Minnesota, far from the crowds — a perfect retreat for birdwatchers, photographers, and anyone seeking calm along the river.
Trails are well-marked and relatively easy, making Kilen Woods a great choice for families or casual hikers exploring the prairie river landscape.
Badge for this hike:
Trailhead location
