Exploring at Ledges State Park

Ledges State Park is located approximately 4 miles south of the city of Boone, Iowa. Its lime and sandstone cliffs make up the beautifully unique walls of Pea's Creek Canyon. Motorists can expect a scenic drive along Canyon Road into and through the gorge making this a popular cruising route among motorcyclists in addition to others seeking a beautiful drive. In the summertime, children beg for these passing motorists to create big squeal evoking splashes while they enjoy wading through the creek beds at locations near where the water runs over the road making this one of Ledges Park's trademark must-dos.  Also a favorite with visitors is a stone bridge which creates for a unique photo opportunity.

 Within the Canyon there is ample open space to grill or picnic with family or hang a travel hammock for relaxation while absorbing the view.  Hikers enjoy hopping on one of the park's trails to the top of the cliffs to view the valley from above or to discover wildlife or observe the Des Moines River from a bird's eye view. A 2.2 mile loop trail provides for a moderate hike while wildlife including deer, geese, ducks and eagles can be viewed along the 1.1 mile Lost Lake Trail. Overlooks such as the one at Crow's Nest are remarkable, especially in the fall. As if the experiences the trails offer don't provide enough to feed even the most starved for adventure spirit, there are also many creek beds winding away from the popular canyon that tempt exploration while leading towards a more serene space. 

Other hikers choose to follow these creek beds as they navigate away from the canyon and civilization to explore more secluded locations within the park. While navigating through the water trails, hikers can expect to see traces of times long ago along with evidence of recent visits by the area's wildlife such as animal tracks and slides from the banks into the water. The curiosity the winding creek beds create, sets a mood of excited anticipation keeping hikers pushing just a little further to discover what natural wonder is awaiting around the next bend of the creek. In addition to drawing hikers, motorists and explorers, the various types of vegetation present throughout the park from prairie grasses and flowers to a forest of diverse trees and plants, make this outdoor oasis a photographer's dream. The Des Moines River bordering on the west side of the park is icing on the cake for paddling and fishing enthusiasts. For those seeking an extended adventure within the park, accommodations are offered in the form of campsites at electric, non-electric, group and even hike-out sites for those seeking a more remote site. Half of each type of site can be reserved in advance. With all Ledges State Park has to offer, it is no mystery why it has become a favorite and repeat destination for so many.