Iowa

Effigy Mounds provides some of the best hiking opportunities in Iowa. It is located in the state’s northeastern most county, Allamakee County, along the Mississippi River. There are several units, the most notable being the north unit, located right next to the visitor center, and the south unit,...

Five Ridge Prairie State Preserve is located in Westfield, Iowa. The trail winds through both wooded areas and open prairie. It spans 4.8 miles and is mainly used for hiking and running. It is free to park at, though to get here, you'll have to drive a gravel road.  The trail has slopes and flat ...

North Bear Creek is a 7.4 mile out and back hike that takes you by a river located near Decorah, Iowa.

Sycamore Trail is a 7 mile loop hike that takes you by a river located near Des Moines, Iowa.

Wildcat Den Trail is a 4 mile loop hike where you may see beautiful wild flowers located near Muscatine, Iowa.

Willow Creek Park Trail is located at Willow Creek County Recreation near Ocheyedan, Iowa. It has a peaceful lake with multiple docks, a .6 mile trail that runs around the lake, a playground, and picnic area. It is easily accessed off IA-9 and is free. The trail travels through prairie grasses an...

Bacon Creek Trail is a 2.8 mile loop hike that is good for all skill levels located in Bacon Creek Park near Sioux City, Iowa. This loop hike is relatively easy with minimal elevation gain and a good one for the whole family. The trail is well-marked and partially paved.Keep an eye out as there a...

Once thought to be the highest point in Iowa, the Ocheyedan Mound stands tall in the middle of prairie grasses and cornfields. Though it was surpassed by Hawkeye Point, it is still one of the highest points in Iowa. The trail is free to public and easy to park at. It is a mowed trail that has a p...

Beeds Lake Trail is a 2 mile loop hike that takes you by a lake located near Hampton, Iowa.

The Ed Winkel Memorial Trail is located in Sibley, Iowa. It spans over 8 miles and includes a paved section that covers the first mile. Along the trail, you'll pass a golf course, cornfields, prairies, and many wildflowers. Dogs are allowed as long as they are leashed. This trail is great for hik...

Hawkeye Point is the highest point in Iowa. Surrounded by cornfields the caretakers for this location have done a great job with some informative displays and marking the point itself. Definitely worth a stop if you are in the area. Directions: From I-90. Go to Worthington, Minnesota and take...