Take a free, fun bike ride with the kids on Des Moines' Waukee Trails.
Ten minutes or less is all it takes to begin a memorable biking adventure with grandkids and friends. Aventura’s location is close to the Waukee Trail system, with the Heart of the Warrior bike trail just moments from home. Rally the gang at the trailhead of one of the park’s many trails and create an informal caravan. Trail maps and bike-riders’ rules are available at Trails l Waukee, IA official website, along with locations of bike repair stations on the trail. The Heart of the Warrior Trail starts northeast of Waukee’s Centennial Park and runs through the city. The fascinating “Waukee Railroad Pergola: In the Shadow of the Rails” is a public art installation with open space surroundings with a vast trail map and picnic areas sprinkled throughout. There are 23 miles of winding trails on the Waukee Trails Map so you can explore something new on every trip.
Plan for your picnic and rest stops with simple outdoor games and activities. Folded-up pillowcases can come out of your bike bag to start the fun of a sack race. Everyone knows how to play hide-and-seek and tag. Use a song on your phone for a picnic blanket game of musical chairs. Red Light, Green Light is another favorite game that requires no take-along equipment. You’ll think of more as the fun unfolds.
Keep the picnic lunch simple with as few containers and leftovers as possible. And remember a trash bag for easy cleanup. Here’s an idea for a yummy dessert from Delish.com, where they list 47 different Picnic Recipes.
Strawberry Shortcake Rice Krispies Treats
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt:
- 1 stick of butter
- 12-ounce bag of marshmallows
When melted, stir and add:
- 2 ½ Cups of white chocolate chips
- 2 ½ Cups of dried strawberries
Work the mixture together and press into a buttered pan. When cool, cut into squares and put each in a sandwich bag.
Make new memories you can enjoy today and that your grandkids will remember forever.
