Posted in Iowa August 15, 2020 by

Take This Unforgettable Road Trip To Experience Some Of Iowa’s Most Impressive Caves And Waterfalls

If you’re feeling cooped up, you’re not alone! Make time to get out there and see the beauty of the Hawkeye State. Take this road trip to discover the coolest waterfalls and caves in Iowa. You’ll spend a day on the road taking in the sights!

We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. While we’re continuing to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, we don’t expect or encourage you to go check them out immediately. We believe that supporting local attractions is important now more than ever and we hope our articles inspire your future adventures! And on that note, please nominate your favorite local business that could use some love right now: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nominate/
Hit the road to check out the best waterfalls and caves in Iowa and you'll have a great day!
Google Maps
Click HERE for an interactive map!
Start your day with a brisk and brief hike to Malanaphy Springs Falls.
Google Local / Lisa Grouette
The hike is fairly easy and just about two miles round trip, so plan to spend a little over an hour on this part of your day.

Learn more about this short trail here.
Then, head down to Dunning's Spring Park. You won't have to do much walking to see this beautiful cascade!
Tripadvisor / Ima P.
You can see the waterfall just a few steps from the parking lot. Most people choose to walk a little closer, but it won't take you more than five or ten minutes before you're right at the base of the falls.

Learn more about this pretty destination here.
You might be feeling the heat after your short hiking trails, so your next destination is the Decorah Ice Cave.
Google Local / Isaiah54117
Step inside this icy natural wonder to cool off! It's one of the most unique spots in Iowa and has ice inside for much of the year.

Read more about this one of a kind spot here.
Next, take a short drive to Pikes Peak State Park. Not only will you encounter breathtaking views of the Mississippi, but Bridal Veil Falls is calling your name!
AllTrails / Travis Beck
This trickling waterfall is one that many Iowans completely skip over when they visit the park, but it's so worth tracking down.

Read more about this natural wonder here.
There's one more incredible destination on your list - Maquoketa Caves State Park.
Flickr / Phil Roeder
This park is home to several enormous caves, and you can walk a loop to see them all. The largest ones are more than 100 feet beneath the surface of the Earth!

See this impressive destination and learn more here.
Finally, at the end of a long day of exploring, you'll want to treat yourself to a good meal... with a view.
Google Local / Jeremy Murphy
Head to Bluff Lake Catfish Farm around the corner from the Caves and you'll find a waterfront dining spot with a view of a waterfall that serves up classic Midwestern fare.

Plan your dinner out by reading more here

Aren’t we so lucky to live here in the gorgeous Hawkeye State?

Address: Malanaphy Springs, Canoe, IA 52101, USA
Address: Ice Cave Rd, Decorah, IA 52101, USA
Address: Ice Cave Rd, Decorah, IA 52101, USA
Address: 9688 Caves Rd, Maquoketa, IA 52060, USA
Address: 9301 95th Ave, Maquoketa, IA 52060, USA