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Brookside Park
4.7 ★★★★★ 755 Google reviews · Running trail in Ames, Iowa · Posted hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Paved
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Posted hours
Confirmed from Brookside 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.
Recreational green space featuring volleyball & tennis courts, ball fields & a wading pool.
What runners say about Brookside Park
“The shelter was clean, the restroom were great and having the park right there was perfect!”
“This is a beautiful little park with excellent paved trails as well as some dirt trails near the creek.”
I love going to brookside Park in town. Lots of trees and open grass to do many things. I like the fact that they have a multi use path going through it from South 4th Street all the way to 13th Street (which goes through the park. There is all so plenty of wildlife to hear.
This park is a gem. Walking trails, bathrooms, two shelters, three playgrounds, sand volleyball, a little library, a splash pad for kids under 6 (only during certain hours, cost $1.
A beautiful park to explore and enjoy the many trails it offers. There are plenty of spots to relax and soak in the sounds of nature. The park also has shelters available for gatherings and barbecues. However, more restrooms would be a good idea.
I really enjoy coming here to get my mind off things and go for walks. Also a great spot to play tennis, basketball, and other activities. Tons of space to do whatever you want. I also enjoy taking photos here! It's so beautiful.
Trail conditions & character
“This is a beautiful little park with excellent paved trails as well as some dirt trails near the creek.”
“Walking trails, bathrooms, two shelters, three playgrounds, sand volleyball, a little library, a splash pad for kids under 6 (only during certain hours, cost $1.”
“Brookside is used by everyone: dog walkers, walking groups, moms with young kids, college students, families spreading out on the lawn.”
“Once we’re inside the park, it has this almost storybook charm — especially at dusk when the lanterns along the paved path flick on and the whole place feels a little magical.”
Plan your run at Brookside Park
The practical stuff
- AccessPosted hours — posted hours below; park gates sometimes close earlier than the listing says
- SurfacePaved — asphalt or concrete. Fast and predictable, runnable year-round, and fine with a stroller
- 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.
- Websitecityofames.org
- Phone+1 515-239-5350
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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