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Ada Hayden Heritage Park
4.8 ★★★★★ 1,349 Google reviews · Running trail in Ames, Iowa · Posted hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Not reported
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Posted hours
Confirmed from Ada Hayden Heritage Park's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
Park with a fishing lake, hiking & biking trails, picnic shelter & wetlands for bird-watching.
What runners say about Ada Hayden Heritage Park
“It’s a quiet and picturesque place, ideal for a peaceful walk, jog, or bike ride on well-maintained trails that are suitable for all fitness levels.”
“It’s a beautiful area with great facilities and beautiful trails.”
“It’s a quiet and picturesque place, ideal for a peaceful walk, jog, or bike ride on well-maintained trails that are suitable for all fitness levels.”
“It’s a great place to get some exercise without feeling rushed or crowded, and the overall atmosphere is peaceful and welcoming.”
“I love to walk my dog here in the morning and watch the geese and deer.”
This is my favorite place in all of Ames, Iowa! You have to see the sunrises and sunsets here. Especially when the lake is frozen over. Pure delight. I love to walk my dog here in the morning and watch the geese and deer. The trails are amazing and go on for miles and miles.
I absolutely love this lake! The only reason I'm not giving 5 stars is because with the new construction, for whatever reason, the road noise is so much louder. I come here to fish in peace somewhat frequently and it's not as quiet as it was last year. Other than the noise, the new path is great.
I went to Ada Hayden almost daily this past year. Throughout my time living in Ames, it has been a lovely location year round for running, watching the sun set, sledding, and rollerskating. Lots of dogs, well-maintained trails, and friendly, respectful locals.
Review of ADA Hayden Heritage Park in Ames, Iowa: ADA Hayden Heritage Park in Ames, Iowa, is an incredibly beautiful and peaceful natural destination, perfect for those who enjoy spending time outdoors. Named after Ada Hayden, the first woman to earn a Ph.D.
Trail conditions & character
“It’s a beautiful area with great facilities and beautiful trails.”
“Ada Hayden Heritage Park was on my list of parks to visit while in Ames Iowa.”
“It’s a great place to get some exercise without feeling rushed or crowded, and the overall atmosphere is peaceful and welcoming.”
“Dogs are permitted as long as they are on a leash (not everyone does this though.”
“Pretty nice place to go to, there’s restrooms, picnic areas, and fishing areas.”
Plan your run at Ada Hayden Heritage Park
The practical stuff
- AccessPosted hours — posted hours below; park gates sometimes close earlier than the listing says
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadrestrooms, water — reported by runners
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
- Stroller / wheelchairReported as smooth and step-free enough for a running stroller or a chair.
- Websitecityofames.org
- Phone+1 515-239-5360
Hours
| Monday | 6 am–10:30 pm |
| Tuesday | 6 am–10:30 pm |
| Wednesday | 6 am–10:30 pm |
| Thursday | 6 am–10:30 pm |
| Friday | 6 am–10:30 pm |
| Saturday | 6 am–10:30 pm |
| Sunday | 6 am–10:30 pm |
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