12 walking events in Des Moines, Iowa

From big races to Saturday morning group runs—find walking events and connect with the local endurance sports community.

• Iowa Hope Run [iowahoperun.org] [Register at runsignup.com]
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  Sat, May 09, 2026 at 8:30 AM

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  The Iowa Hope Run is a movement that brings together survivors, families, friends, and supporters from Iowa and beyond to raise awareness and funds for brain tumor research, advocacy, and patient...

  The Iowa Hope Run is a movement that brings together survivors, families, friends, and supporters from Iowa and beyond to raise awareness and funds for brain tumor research, advocacy, and patient support.

  This event has spent more than a decade building a strong, compassionate community rooted in Central Iowa. As we grow, our new name reflects what has always been true—hope knows no boundaries. While proudly Iowa-based, the Iowa Hope Run welcomes participants from anywhere who are united by a shared mission: supporting those affected by brain tumors and working toward a future without them.

  Participants of all ages and abilities are invited to join us at Water Works Park in Des Moines for a meaningful and inspiring day. Choose from multiple distances, including a 2K, 5K, or 10.1K, or participate virtually if you’re supporting from afar. Whether you’re running, walking, fundraising, or volunteering, every step makes an impact.

  Proceeds from the Iowa Hope Run benefit Dragon Master Initiative, National Brain Tumor Society, and Children’s Cancer Connection—three organizations doing critical work in brain tumor research, awareness, advocacy, and family support.

  This is more than a race—it’s a day of hope, remembrance, and community. We invite you to join us.

  2k 5k 10k Run Virtual Walk

  2201 George Flagg Pkwy, Des Moines, Iowa, 50321, United States
  OpenStreetMap Google Maps
• Mary's Meals' Race to Feed Kids [runsignup.com]
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  Sat, May 09, 2026 at 9:00 AM

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  Join us in-person or virtually at 9am CDT for the 13th annual Race to Feed Kids in support of Mary’s Meals, an international feeding charity that provides a daily meal to children in their place of...

  Join us in-person or virtually at 9am CDT for the 13th annual Race to Feed Kids in support of Mary’s Meals, an international feeding charity that provides a daily meal to children in their place of education. This isn’t just your average run/walk. Every single race registration will feed one child at Mcheza school in Malawi, Africa for an ENTIRE school year, helping to end hunger and change their story.

  Thank you for your generous support of Mary's Meals and the Race to Feed Kids in Des Moines, Iowa!

  *This race is coordinated by Heartland for Kids, 501(c)(3). "Feeding the world's youth with Mary's Meals."

  5k Kids Run Virtual Walk

  East Side Of Des Moines River, Des Moines, Iowa, 50309, United States
  OpenStreetMap Google Maps
• The Buzz Run + Stylin Paws Downtown Dog Walk [runsignup.com]
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  Sat, May 16, 2026 at 7:30 AM

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  Sixth Annual Buzz Run + Stylin Paws Downtown Dog Walk!

  May 16, 2026 📅 7:30 AM ⏰️

  (Packet pickup details toward the bottom of the page!)

  Join us for the Sixth Annual Buzz Run + Stylin’ Paws Downtown...

  Sixth Annual Buzz Run + Stylin Paws Downtown Dog Walk!

  May 16, 2026 📅 7:30 AM ⏰️

  (Packet pickup details toward the bottom of the page!)

  Join us for the Sixth Annual Buzz Run + Stylin’ Paws Downtown Dog Walk — a fun, laid-back community event celebrating movement, pups, and giving back!

  🏃‍♀️ Event Details

  👉 Distances: 2 miles, 6K, 10K, or Half Marathon

  👉 Choose your distance on race day — no pressure, no stress

  👉 Runners & walkers of all paces (and pups!) welcome

  👉 Social run style — race it or take it easy, your call

  👉 Open course — participants must follow all traffic laws

  👉 Limited course support — please bring your own hydration if needed

  👉 Finish-line snacks & drinks provided

  💛 Registration Details

  $15 Online Registration (closes May 8, 2026)

  $20 Day-of On-Site Registration

  +$25 Event Shirt

  • Available with online registration

  • Limited quantities available on race day

  • First come, first served

  🎉 All proceeds benefit Animal Lifeline of Iowa

  📌 To guarantee a race medal and shirt (if purchased), registrations must be completed online by April 15, 2026.

  📦 Packet Pickup Information*

  Thursday, May 14

  🕘 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM

  📍 Stylin’ Paws Play Place

  3901 121st St, Urbandale, IA 50323

  Friday, May 15

  🕓 4:00 – 6:00 PM

  📍 Fleet Feet Des Moines

  521 E Locust St, Des Moines, IA 50309

  *Packet pickup details may change – please refer back to this page or the Facebook event page for details!

  🚫 No Race Day Packet Pickup

  Please plan to pick up your packet in advance to help ensure a smooth event morning — and more time for dog snuggles, socializing, and fun! 🐶🎉

  Run Walk

  521 E Locust St., Des Moines, Iowa, 50309, United States
  OpenStreetMap Google Maps
• Stars Stripes Spirit 5K [starsstripesspirit.com] [Register at runsignup.com]
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  Sat, May 16, 2026 at 9:00 AM

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  Hey Iowa! Show your spirit for America and our men and women in uniform by participating in the Stars Stripes Spirit 5K Walk/Run. The event supports the veterans, youth and our communities of Iowa...

  Hey Iowa! Show your spirit for America and our men and women in uniform by participating in the Stars Stripes Spirit 5K Walk/Run. The event supports the veterans, youth and our communities of Iowa through the programs of the Iowa American Legion.

  Get your most patriotic costume to show off your patriotism or simply walk or run as you join others in celebrating the men and women who defend America.

  Enjoy food, drinks and music as we celebrate with the Stars Stripes Spirit 5K on Armed Forces Day - May 16, 2026.

  5k Run Walk

  Des Moines, Iowa, 50321, United States
  OpenStreetMap Google Maps
• Girls on the Run 5K Presented by EMC Insurance [gotrcentraliowa.org] [Register at runsignup.com]
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  Sun, May 17, 2026 at 2:00 PM

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  This registration is NOT for Girls on the Run Participants or Coaches. GOTR Participants and coaches are already registered for the event.

  Join us for the 5K – open to all! Whether you run or walk,...

  This registration is NOT for Girls on the Run Participants or Coaches. GOTR Participants and coaches are already registered for the event.

  Join us for the 5K – open to all! Whether you run or walk, you're welcome as a community runner. Your participation supports girls throughout central Iowa, helping them be joyful, healthy, and confident. Let's shine together with our Star Power!

  Each season comes to an end with a celebratory 5K. This closing event gives program participants of all abilities a tangible sense of accomplishment. Crossing the finish line instills confidence through completion and is a joyful moment program participants always remember!

  Anyone is welcome to participate in the end-of-season 5K celebration.

  Packet Pick-Up

  Friday, May 15 from 4-6 PM at Walnut Creek Y

  Sunday, May 17 starting at 12:30 PM at Principal Park

  Race start time is 2:00 PM

  3.1 Miles 5k Run Walk

  Des Moines, Iowa, 50309, United States
  OpenStreetMap Google Maps
• Espresso Mile p/b Chain & Spoke [runsignup.com]
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  Sun, May 31, 2026 at 3:00 PM

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  New event date for 2026!

  See you May 31st in the afternoon☕️

  2025 Results

  2025 Race Photos

  This event is taking place in conjunction with the Rip the Aves bike races taking place throughout the day....

  New event date for 2026!

  See you May 31st in the afternoon☕️

  2025 Results

  2025 Race Photos

  This event is taking place in conjunction with the Rip the Aves bike races taking place throughout the day. Packet pickup will be over at our race at corner of 28th and Ingersoll, and then it will be short walk to High Street where you'll find the start line. At roughly 1:30PM, the run will take off down hill to 24th street where it will take two right turns and take the field onto Ingersoll Avenue. After the long flat straight it will be a right turn up 28th street hill, this uphill will give you your next downhill down High street once again. Finally, it will be 2 right turns once again and a sprint to the line. Exact time to be finalized as we get closer to the event.

  1st M/F - $200

  2nd M/F - $100

  3rd M/F - $50

  Post-race you'll want to stick around and enjoy everything Ingersoll Avenue has to offer including some exciting bike races throughout the day!

  This race is also a part of the Central Iowa Race League! https://runcirl.com/

  1 Miles Run Walk

  515 28th St., Des Moines, Iowa, 50312, United States
  OpenStreetMap Google Maps
• Capital City Pride Stride 5K [capitalcitypride.org] [Register at runsignup.com]
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  Sat, Jun 13, 2026 at 8:00 AM

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  Get ready to walk, jog, run and more with Capital City Pride at our annual Pride Stride! Join us for a vibrant and inclusive morning filled with love, unity, and community support.

  Date: Saturday,...

  Get ready to walk, jog, run and more with Capital City Pride at our annual Pride Stride! Join us for a vibrant and inclusive morning filled with love, unity, and community support.

  Date: Saturday, June 13th

  Time: 8:00 A.M.

  Come kick off the second day of PrideFest with us! Pride Stride is more than just a race; it's a celebration of diversity and acceptance. Whether you're a seasoned runner, a casual walker, or somewhere in between, everyone is welcome to participate and show their support for the LGBTQ+ community.

  Packet Pick Up Information:

  Thursday, June 11th - 4:00 PM - 6:30 PM : Single Speed Brewing Location: 303 Scott Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309

  Saturday, June 13th - 6:45 AM - 7:40 AM : East 6th and Locust (Near Mainstage of Pride Festival

  5k Run Walk

  Des Moines, Iowa, 50309, United States
  OpenStreetMap Google Maps
• Run, Walk, and Roll: Women of the ELCA 5K for Raising up Healthy Women and Girls [community.elca.org] [Register at runsignup.com]
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  Sat, Jul 18, 2026 at 7:00 AM

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  Run, Walk, and Roll: Women of the ELCA 5K for Raising up Healthy Women and Girls

  The Women of the ELCA Triennial Gathering takes place every three years and gathers 1000 women leaders, participants,...

  Run, Walk, and Roll: Women of the ELCA 5K for Raising up Healthy Women and Girls

  The Women of the ELCA Triennial Gathering takes place every three years and gathers 1000 women leaders, participants, and newcomers for four days of worship, inspiring speakers, workshops, service projects, and more! The theme for the 2026 Triennial Gathering is "I am Worthy" focusing on Psalm 139:14 “I am fearfully and wonderfully made.” Psalm 139:14

  The 5K Run, Walk and Roll is a fundraiser to support the work of the Women of the ELCA health initiative, Raising Up Healthy Women and Girls.

  EVERYONE is welcome to register and participate!

  5k Run Walk

  Principal River Walk, Des Moines, Iowa, 50309, United States
  OpenStreetMap Google Maps
• WWY 5K (no one walks alone) [walkwithyounonprofit.org] [Register at runsignup.com]
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  Sat, Sep 19, 2026 at 9:00 AM

  Description

  WWY 5K (no one walks alone) is a family-friendly event complete with a 5K Walk/Run, a Kid's 1/2 mile run, coffee, food, face painting, and more! This event is hosted by Walk With You, a nonprofit organization that exists to walk with families as they experience the loss of a child. All money raised will be used to further our mission.

  5k Run Walk

  2201 George Flagg Pkwy, Des Moines, Iowa, 50321, United States
  OpenStreetMap Google Maps
• Blue Believers [runsignup.com]
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  Sun, Sep 20, 2026 at 8:45 AM

  Description

  Prostate Cancer Awareness of Central Iowa is proud to present its fourth run/walk event. 100% of all proceeds stay right here in Iowa to help Iowans affected by prostate cancer. Since our inaugural event, we have donated back nearly $270,000 to the Iowa prostate cancer community. With your help, we can help even more Iowa men and their families. Thank you for being part of Team Blue Iowa!

  1 Miles 3.1 Miles 5k Run Walk

  1 Line Drive, Des Moines, Iowa, 50309, United States
  OpenStreetMap Google Maps
• To Grandmother's House We Go [runsignup.com]
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  Sat, Oct 24, 2026 at 9:00 AM

  Description

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  2026 date is not finalized, but the current planned date is listed.

  2025 RESULTS

  2025 Race Photos

  This is a fall race that runs on both single and double track dirt. Participants have 5K/10K/15K...

  2026 date is not finalized, but the current planned date is listed.

  2025 RESULTS

  2025 Race Photos

  This is a fall race that runs on both single and double track dirt. Participants have 5K/10K/15K options on a trail loop that takes you deep into the woods.

  • Races will begin promptly at 9:00 AM

  • Walkers may participate and are encouraged to register for one of the shorter races.

  • The course will remain open for 3 hours.

  • Proceeds from this race will be used to support Des Moines' dirt trail systems, the Stewards of Browns Woods, and the Capital Striders

  • Click here to view the map of Brown's Woods (in PDF format). TGHWG will be completed on the outermost trail loop, which totals a 5K distance; 10K participants will be doing 2 loops, 15K participants will be doing 3 loops.

  • While we love dogs, sadly our insurance does not permit them on the course during the event.

  • Packet Pickup will be Friday October 23rd from 4:00-6:00PM

  Registration

  5k 10k 15k Run Trail Walk

  195 SE Brown'S Woods Ct., Des Moines, Iowa, 50265, United States
  OpenStreetMap Google Maps

Local Clubs & Organizations