Carney Marsh Nature Preserve — Attraction in Ankeny

I don't think it's worth a visit on its own. It's mostly just a nice side attraction to the trail. Not a good spot to get close to the water. It's left natural enough for wildlife that there's lots of bugs and overgrowth. Has a small parking lot, so is good if your intentions are to hop on the trail. I think it's good for the wildlife but not people. There's much better parks if you want a destination. Lots of pretty parks with bodies of water that are more intended for humans in the area. No restrooms or...

Part of Polk County trail system; majority of asphalt/paved trail runs north/south. Trail turns east and heads under I 35 towards Bondurant. Marsh area itself is nice for fishing, walking and bird watching--many migrating songbirds stop in area including warblers, Orioles, rose breasted grosbeaks and cat birds. Waterfowl too, of course. Frequently see deer, muskrats, GH owls and turtles. No facilities, 2 park benches. Snow is usually cleared...

Great little watering hole right by the High Trestle Trail. There isn't much in terms of facilities around this location except for a few benches by the water that aren't really maintained. There's a small parking lot to the Southeast side of the water, so you can definitely visit even if you're not stopping from the trail. Otherwise, a really beauty and...