Low to the Ground, Wide on the Smile: Recumbent Trikes Around Easter Lake

DES MOINES BIKE RENTAL FIELD GUIDE

Low to the Ground, Wide on the Smile: Recumbent Trikes Around Easter Lake

A two-hour rental of leg- or arm-powered adult trikes and a pediatric model on Easter Lake’s paved trails — this guide explains the vehicle options, who they suit, and what to bring.

Check availabilitySee guide details

Low to the Ground, Wide on the Smile: Recumbent Trikes Around Easter Lake.

Duration
Contact operator
Location
Des Moines
Operator
Athene North Shore Recreation Area
Category
Bike Rental
Robert Eric Crews
Founder & Editor, The Adventure Collective
Published Verified

At Easter Lake in Des Moines, a different silhouette moves along the paved shoreline: recumbent trikes, offered in leg-powered and arm-powered adult models plus a child-sized option. The setup favors comfort and stability, turning a short, two-hour outing into an accessible way to explore the lake’s trails for riders of all abilities.

Highlights

Outing Highlights

THE GEAR

Three trike choices for different needs

Choose from a leg-powered adult recumbent for traditional pedaling, an arm-powered adult model for riders who prefer or require upper-limb propulsion, or a pediatric recumbent sized for children — each designed to offer a supportive, stable ride.

THE TRAIL

Paved loops at Easter Lake

Rides take place on Easter Lake’s paved bike trails, a smooth surface that makes transfers and steady forward motion straightforward for a wide range of riders.

THE TIMING

A compact, two-hour outing

The rental is offered as a two-hour adventure — long enough to loop the lake and savor the setting, short enough for families or riders trying recumbents for the first time.

What the day feels like

What the ride feels like

Expect a low, stable seating position and an easy, supportive motion as you roll along the paved shore of Easter Lake. Staff at Athene North Shore Recreation Area fit you to a leg- or arm-powered adult model or a pediatric trike, and riders spend two hours exploring the lake’s accessible trails — a measured outing built around comfort and inclusion.

Suitability

Who it's for

Who this rental suits — and who should reconsider.

1
Active familiesA two-hour format and a pediatric recumbent make this an easy family outing — parents can rent adult models while children use the child-sized trike for a shared experience.
2
Riders with limited lower-body mobilityArm-powered adult trikes and adjustable seats are specifically offered for riders who benefit from upper-limb propulsion and easier transfers.
3
Casual explorersThe supportive seating and paved trails suit riders looking for a comfortable, scenic pedal rather than high-performance cycling.
4
Parents of young children or caregiversThe availability of a pediatric recumbent and the short, two-hour session make this a practical option for caregivers introducing children to trikes in a controlled, accessible setting.

Practical planner

Details to review before reserving

Timing & Season

Rentals are sold as a two-hour session; plan for a concise outing that fits into a half-day schedule.

What to Bring

Bring a photo ID for check-in.

Logistics & Meeting

The operator is Athene North Shore Recreation Area, which handles check-in and trike fittings for rides on Easter Lake’s paved trails.

Booking Notice

Review cancellation policies before reserving.

Frequently asked questions

Planning Your Outing

How long is a rental?

Each rental session is two hours.

What types of trikes are available?

Leg-powered adult recumbent trikes, arm-powered adult recumbent trikes, and a pediatric recumbent trike are offered.

Are the trails paved?

Yes — rides use Easter Lake’s paved bike trails.

Do I need to bring anything special?

Bring a photo ID for check-in; no other specific gear is listed.

Where do I check in?

Check-in and rentals are handled by Athene North Shore Recreation Area.

Are the trikes suitable for riders with limited mobility?

Yes — arm-powered adult models and adjustable seats on certain trikes are intended to assist riders who benefit from upper-limb propulsion and easier transfers.