The Stunning Amana Nature Trail Is A Quiet Escape From One Of Iowa’s Busiest Tourist Towns
The Amana Colonies are one of Iowa’s most visited tourist attractions, but not far from the bustle of the restaurants and shops, you’ll find a trail that is a quiet natural oasis. The Amana Nature Trail is a serene place to connect with nature during any season. The trail is located just outside of the Village of Homestead on a tranquil and historic property owned by the Amana Society. Here are some things to know before exploring the trail.
You'll find the trail near the intersection of Highways 6 and 151. The trail is open all year, except during the Iowa deer shotgun season. The trail is well-marked and easy to follow.
The trail includes three connected loops so you can adjust the hike to your liking. The longest loop is 3.5 miles. Keep a lookout for the 1,000-year-old Native American Mounds, just off of the trail.
A little wooden picnic shelter is the perfect place to rest. You may want to pick up some things in the colonies for a picnic and enjoy a relaxing outdoor meal.
The trail traces a bluff that overlooks the Iowa River, and there are some nice views from the trail. The walking is easy, but on wet days, the trail can get muddy, so boots are a good idea.
Long ago, Native Americans caught fish with a rock structure they built in the river. Archeologists in 2018 uncovered the structure, called a weir, buried under eight feet of silt.
The trail is a nice place for a hike in warmer months. In the winter, it’s open for cross-country skiing, when conditions permit. Looking for other relaxing Iowa trail escapes? Here are eight low-key hikes with amazing payoffs.
Address: Homestead, IA 52236, USA
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