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Writer's pictureSara Hopkins

Have You Checked Out Easter Lake in Des Moines Recently?

If it has been a while since you've visited Easter Lake in Des Moines, IA or even if you have never been, it is time to add this spot to your summer bucket list! The Polk County Conservation has made a huge investment into this area with the addition of the Athene North Shore Recreation Park. This park has something for all ages and all abilities, in fact it's labeled as one of the most universally accessible parks in the country, and we are lucky to have it right here in Des Moines!

Photo of athene north shore recreation area
Photo courtesy of the Des Moines Register

Whether you are looking for a playground, splash pad, a beach to lounge on, or a lake to enjoy recreational activities in, Easter Lake has it all!


Some of the many amenities you can enjoy include:

  • Full accessible natural playscape

  •  Nature and outdoor recreation programming

  • Zero-entry ramps providing easy access to the water

  • Rain garden and sand play area

  • Bathrooms & water fountains

  • Concessions

  • Swimming beach and diving platform

  • Full inventory of adaptive and accessible equipment for rent including stand-up paddle boards and adaptive kayaks

  • Large parking lot with easy access to the park

What equipment can you rent and how much does it cost?

According to the website, equipment available for rental includes:

  • Single kayaks (standard, adaptive): $25

  • Tandem kayaks (standard, adaptive): $40

  • Pedal-powered kayaks: $35

  • Trolling motor-powered kayaks: $45

  • Stand-up paddleboards: $30

  • Canoes: $35

  • Bikes/trikes (standard bikes available via B-Cycle station): $20

  • Pontoon boat (driver provided): $350

  • Fishing rods: $10

  • Beach/water wheelchairs: free

  • Floatation devices/life jackets: free

The recreation equipment will be available at the concession building at North Shore to rent in two-hour increments. There will be staff on-site to help people in and out of adaptive equipment.


Here are the details so you know exactly where to go: Athene North Shore is at Easter Lake Park in southeast Des Moines. The address of the recreation area is 2816 Shoreline Road, Des Moines, IA 50320.


We hope you get a chance to enjoy the outdoors at this Des Moines spot!

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