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11 Outdoor Adventures That Prove Iowa Is The Midwest’s Most Underrated Playground
Iowa might not be the first place that pops into your mind when you think “adventure,” but there’s way more going on here than endless cornfields and politely avoiding potholes. In fact, this state has a knack for sneaking up on you with some entertaining outdoor activities that’ll get your heart pumping. Or at least make you step away from your phone for a bit.
From peaceful trails to things that’ll get your adrenaline kicking, there’s something to keep every kind of explorer busy for a day. You might even surprise yourself and leave with a story or two that isn’t about the weather.
Curious? Stick around, and I’ll spill the details about what to check out, regardless of whether you are here for just a day or two or spending a whole week.
Explore Maquoketa Caves State Park
Who knew Iowa was hiding its own underworld? Maquoketa Caves State Park dares you to channel your inner adventurer as you crawl, hike, and marvel your way through its impressive collection of caves; seriously, it’s the largest in the state.
From massive caverns that make you feel puny to tight squeezes that might leave you questioning your lunchtime choices, there’s a cave for every level of enthusiasm (and flexibility). And if spelunking isn’t your thing, there’s a breathtaking 50-foot natural bridge and scenic trails that’ll have you feeling all “one with nature” in no time.
Just don’t forget a flashlight… and maybe an extra pair of pants for anyone in your group who thinks bats are out to get them.
Search For Geodes Around Geode State Park
Geode State Park has rocks worth more than their weight in, well, rocks. These sparkling beauties, known as geodes, might look plain on the outside, but inside? Pure magic.
Sure, park rules say you can’t actually take one home (bummer, I know), but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy hunting for them. Stroll the area and see how many you can spot. It’s like treasure hunting (minus the pirates and gold doubloons).
And if your day’s luckier than mine, you’ll stumble across some rad geode displays in the park that show they’re nature’s way of proving it wins at art every. single. time. Plus, it’s a great conversation starter when you mention you spent the day looking for shiny rocks.
Camp At Lacey-Keosauqua State Park
Lacey-Keosauqua State Park is the ultimate summer camp for grown-ups who still hate chores but love good scenery. Pitch a tent, kick back, and soak in the beauty of Wesley Creek Canyon, where sandstone walls look like something ripped straight out of a fantasy novel.
Paddle along the water, try your luck at fishing (who doesn’t love a good “the fish was this big” story?), or just stretch out under the stars and pretend you’re auditioning for a role in a camping gear ad. It’s all here.
And if you’re a history buff, the park has one of Iowa’s oldest oak-hickory forests, so you can drop that as a fun nugget during any awkward silences around the campfire.
Walk The Swinging Bridge In Columbus Junction
Taking a stroll on the swinging bridge at Columbus Junction is a test of bravery disguised as a scenic walk. This 262-foot pedestrian suspension bridge doesn’t just wobble a little… it’ll make you ponder your life decisions as it sways to and fro underfoot.
It’s been nicknamed “Lover’s Leap,” which will feel ironic if you’re gripping the railings like your life depends on it. Originally built in 1886 and later rebuilt multiple times, the bridge mixes charm with just a hint of terror.
If you do manage to unclench long enough to look down at the valley below, you’ll probably agree it was worth it. Bonus points if you manage to keep a straight face while crossing (or at least wait until the ground is solid again before shaking out those jelly legs).
Climb Sandstone Cliffs At Ledges State Park
If heights don’t scare you (and minor bruises seem like a fair trade for epic views), then Ledges State Park should top your list. Pea’s Creek has spent the last few million years carving a 100-foot gorge into sandstone cliffs, and it’s left behind a playground for adventurers.
Climb the cliffs, wander CCC-built trails (that’s the Civilian Conservation Corps, for the record), and cross some very aesthetic stone bridges. And when you’re ready to catch your breath, you’ll find plenty of spots to just sit and stare at how impressive Iowa can be when it tries.
That’s assuming you’re not too distracted by your inner monologue about gravity halfway up a rock face.
Bike The High Trestle Trail Bridge
Pedaling over the High Trestle Trail Bridge is like starring in your own adventure movie, except the only villain is your legs screaming halfway through. This incredible half-mile bridge soars three stories above the Des Moines River Valley and features LED-lit steel frames designed to mimic the look of a mine shaft.
It’s dramatic, a little dizzying, and a lot cooler than your average bike ride spot. And the lighting at night? Absolutely worth the detour. Just try not to accidentally start narrating it out loud like you’re in a sci-fi epic.
The view might make you pause mid-ride, not because you’re out of breath (okay, probably partly that), but because Iowa’s lesser-known allure is stretching out in front of you. This is how you “elevate” cycling to a new level.
Hike Pilot Knob State Park Tower Trail
If you’re looking for a hike that comes with a built-in prize, the Tower Trail at Pilot Knob State Park is calling your name. The stone tower, built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s, leads you to Iowa’s second-highest point, offering views that scream “majestic”… even if the climb up has you wheezing like an out-of-tune bagpipe.
Reaching the top feels like a small victory, and you’ll probably pat yourself on the back. Then pretend you aren’t winded while admiring the panoramic scenery.
And don’t worry, it’s totally fine if you need to “casually” lean on the tower while you take in a little extra oxygen, err, the view. It’s all part of the charm, and the bragging rights are definitely worth the effort.
Spot Raptors From Hitchcock Nature Center’s Observation Deck
At Hitchcock Nature Center, the observation deck is the perfect place for spotting raptors: hawks, eagles, falcons, and roughly 13,000 of their feathered friends migrating through the Loess Hills every year. And the Hawkwatch here turns bird spotting into a spectator sport.
If you’re lucky, you might even catch one of these majestic creatures soaring close enough to deliver that smug “yes, I’m an apex predator” look. You don’t even have to be a birder to appreciate the experience; the deck offers a spectacular vantage point that reminds you nature occasionally has better special effects than any blockbuster movie.
Be warned, though, you might leave with an irrational urge to buy binoculars or casually drop bird-fact trivia at your next gathering.
Hike The Bluff Trails At Backbone State Park
If scaling 80-foot-high rock ridges sounds like your idea of a casual afternoon, Backbone State Park is calling your name. Iowa’s first state park offers more than just jaw-dropping heights and trails that make your thighs burn; it’s also a historical jackpot.
The Civilian Conservation Corps didn’t just build paths here; they built legacy. You can check out the museum dedicated to their work and marvel at how people managed to accomplish so much without Wi-Fi and online how-to guides.
The bluff trails wind through stunning landscapes, and the views are the kind that make you realize you’ve spent too much time staring at your phone screen. And everyone will be impressed if you manage to hike the whole thing without thinking, “I should’ve stretched first.”
Visit Loess Hills For Incredible Views
Loess Hills isn’t your standard-issue hill range; it’s a geological marvel. After all, these hills were created by windblown silt over thousands of years, which makes them feel both ancient and oddly fancy at the same time.
When you visit, you’re not just walking into woodland, prairie, and savanna ecosystems; you’re walking into a place that decided it didn’t want to choose just one aesthetic. And every view looks ready for its close-up, with sweeping horizons that make you feel like your car’s air freshener with the scent “Mountain Breeze” has been lying to you all along.
Make sure to wear sturdy shoes; you’ll need them if you’re going to make it up the scenic overlooks without having to dramatically stop at every 3rd random tree to “enjoy the view.”
Discover The Fenelon Place Elevator In Dubuque
Calling the Fenelon Place Elevator a “steep railway” is like calling Mount Everest “a tall rock.” This is the steepest railway in the world, and riding it feels like being on the world’s shortest rollercoaster.
At a mere 296 feet long, it might not sound impressive, but the 200-foot vertical rise offers views that will absolutely make you rethink your “beaches only” vacation policy. From the top, you can see three different states… which is perfect for anyone who’s indecisive about boundaries.
Built in 1882 because some banker decided he was over long buggy rides, it’s now a charming blast from the past that delivers both nostalgia and a solid excuse to avoid finding parking up the hill.
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