Iowa's terrain changes a lot once you leave the row crops. River valleys, Mississippi bluffs, and sandstone canyons all sit within an easy drive of the population centers. Here is where to hike, paddle, and ride.
The Hiking Heavyweights
Ledges State Park near Boone runs along a narrow valley below sandstone cliffs. A scenic road dips through shallow stream crossings, and the pea-gravel creeks are shallow enough for wading. The overlooks across the Des Moines River valley are among the best in central Iowa.
The Mines of Spain Recreation Area near Dubuque sits on limestone bluffs above the Mississippi, with miles of trails and a history of lead mining and Native American settlement. The Julien Dubuque Monument marks the grave of the city's namesake and overlooks the river.
Water Adventures and Lake Life
Clear Lake in north-central Iowa is a lake town with a public beach, boating, and a walkable downtown. The 3,600-acre lake gives the state park its name.
For paddlers, the Upper Iowa River in the northeast is one of the best-known canoe and kayak runs in the Midwest. It winds beneath limestone bluffs and rock chimneys. Outfitters in the Decorah area rent boats and run shuttles.
Cycling: Iowa's Trail Network
Iowa has an extensive network of paved rail trails and is the home of RAGBRAI, the week-long ride across the state held each July.
The High Trestle Trail near Madrid is anchored by an artistic half-mile bridge that lights up at night. The Raccoon River Valley Trail west of Des Moines forms one of the longest paved loops in the country, at about 89 miles, linking small towns, cafes, and trailside breweries.
Wildlife and Scenic Overlooks
Pikes Peak State Park near McGregor sits on one of the highest bluffs along the Mississippi, with a panoramic overlook of the point where the Wisconsin River joins it. It is a short walk from the parking area to the view. The bluffs turn color in fall.
For something rarer, head to the Loess Hills along the western border, a ridgeline of windblown silt this deep in only one other place on Earth. The prairie overlooks are best at sunset.
More Parks Worth the Drive
Iowa has more than 70 state parks, and a few more belong on the list. Backbone State Park near Dundee was Iowa's first state park, dedicated in 1920, named for the narrow rock ridge running through it and built up with Civilian Conservation Corps stonework. Wildcat Den State Park near Muscatine pairs sandstone formations with the preserved Pine Creek Grist Mill. Stone State Park in Sioux City is a gateway to the Loess Hills, with ridgetop prairie trails and valley views. In the southeast, Lacey-Keosauqua State Park follows a bend in the Des Moines River with woods, a lake, and quiet campsites.
Fresh Air Is Close
Across most of the state, a trail, river, or overlook sits less than an hour away. Want more Iowa outdoor guides like this? Join the free Get Iowa newsletter.
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More from Get Iowa: Iowa's hidden gems, the Iowa bucket list, and Iowa weekend getaways.
