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Terra Lake
4.6 ★★★★★ 321 Google reviews · Running trail in Johnston, Iowa · Posted hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Not reported
- Distance
- 45 mi
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Posted hours
Confirmed from Terra Lake'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.
Playground-equipped, 6-acre lake featuring trails for walking, biking and running, plus fishing.
What runners say about Terra Lake
“Terra Lake is a serene and picturesque destination, perfect for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful getaway.”
Terra Lake is a serene and picturesque destination, perfect for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful getaway. The area features beautiful lakeside views, walking trails, and plenty of spots to relax or have a picnic.
Huge park, over 200 acres. Walking trails nearby, plenty of shelters & picnic tables, as well as a large kids playground area. The lake itself has a very nice dock, where you can catch largemouth bass, bluegill, and the occasional catfish.
Just finished taking family photos here in the wooded area. Once this park is completed I bet it will be an amazing gem of Des Moines metro. Can’t wait to return.
Great park with walking trails, playground for kids, nice shelter houses and fishing deck.
Trail conditions & character
“Terra Lake is a serene and picturesque destination, perfect for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful getaway.”
“There are restrooms on site, and a small playground area as well.”
Plan your run at Terra Lake
The practical stuff
- AccessPosted hours — posted hours below; park gates sometimes close earlier than the listing says
- Distance45 mi as reported — check whether that is one way or a round trip before you commit. Long enough for a real long run.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadrestrooms — reported by runners
- Websitecityofjohnston.com
- Phone+1 515-727-8091
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Hours
| Monday | 7 am–8 pm |
| Tuesday | 7 am–8 pm |
| Wednesday | 7 am–8 pm |
| Thursday | 7 am–8 pm |
| Friday | 7 am–8 pm |
| Saturday | Open 24 hours |
| Sunday | 7 am–8 pm |
Running trails near Johnston
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Terra Park
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Dewey Park
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