Stretching for 50 miles across three counties, Saylorville Lake is situated along the Des Moines River just outside the city of Des Moines and is extremely popular for both land and water-based activities. Constructed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in 1977 for flood control, the 5,950-acre reservoir now attracts locals and visitors, who come to enjoy boating, swimming, fishing, and kayaking as well as camping, hiking, and mountain biking. The lake is encircled by a multi-purpose trail that is ideal for jogging, walking, cycling, and in-line skating against a backdrop of beautiful lake views.