Ankeny's trail system just got a lot more interesting — literally, it glows at night.

The city is developing a brand-new, 14-acre High Trestle Trail Experience Park along both sides of the trail, stretching from West First Street to the underpass at South Ankeny Boulevard. It's being built in phases over the next several years, and Phase 1 is already open.

What's there now: This converted railroad bed now has more than 147 newly planted trees, native landscaping, stormwater features, and reshaped terrain give the park a nature-first feel right in the heart of town. New trail lighting supports evening walks and rides, and makes it easier to access nearby Uptown shops and restaurants after dark. This is a great section to ride, then stop at Uptown Dairy for ice cream! 

The star of Phase 1: The Glow Trail — a 425-foot side path just east of SW Walnut Street that lights up at night, just like the stick-on stars you put up in your bedroom as a kid. It was funded through a public art grant from BRAVO and connects directly to the main High Trestle Trail.

What's coming next: Future phases are planned to add more public art and interactive amenities, including a planned "flowline" trail feature, continuing to build out this stretch as a true destination rather than just a pass-through.

Why it matters: With more than 100 miles of trails already crisscrossing Ankeny, this park adds a genuine "there" to the trail experience — a reason to walk or bike there, not just through it. For anyone considering a move to Uptown or nearby neighborhoods, easy trail access keeps climbing the list of what makes Ankeny desirable.