The Creepiest Hike in Iowa Leads to the Abandoned Ruins of a School Bus

Wildcat Cave Trail, located near Eldora, Iowa, might seem like an easy hike. At less than a mile, out and back, it's a perfect beginner's hike for a nice day in the woods. However, those who take this trail experience something unusual, as it takes them past entrances to a complex cave system and eerie ruins. We were blown away by the unusual vibes coming off this trail and the surprises along the way. Pack your hiking supplies, come along with us, and discover why some call this humble trail the creepiest hike in Iowa.

The way to the Wildcat Cave Trail feels peaceful. From the Eldora area, you follow a section of the Iowa River greenbelt, rugged stretches of steep, forested banks that flank the river's course until you come to the Wildcat Cave Access area. It's a 46-acre park that Hardin County Conservation Board and the Iowa Department of Natural Resources cooperatively manage. This is where you'll find the trailhead.

As you make your way along the path, you'll notice the feature that makes this trail notable and gives it its name: steep rock walls rising up from the banks of the river, dotted with entrances to a network of caves. The terrain adds a bit of eeriness to the hike, and the vibe of the environment becomes even more unsettling when you begin to notice the unusual rock formations along the trail.

The eerie feel of the area only increases when you see the odd rock formations lying about. They were most likely put there by other visitors looking to make their mark, but many hikers give them a wide berth, uncertain of their origins. You may be tempted to explore the cave entrances, but use caution when you approach them. Many are too small for a hiker to enter, while others are high up on the cliff face—and climbing is not permitted in the park.

The area where Wildcat Trails is now located was once home to a steel bridge spanning the Iowa River. The bridge is now long gone, but some ruins remain, adding to some of this trail's eeriness—as do the remains of a wrecked school bus. How did it wind up there? How long has it been there? It's possible to get closer and examine it, but this anomaly along the trail has led many to call this one of Iowa's eeriest locations—especially at night.

Have you braved the twists and turns of Wildcat Cave Trail in Iowa? Did you see anything unusual? Make sure to visit the website of Eldora, Iowa, to see what else the area has waiting for you. While you're in the area, check out why Eldora is Iowa's best town for off-the-grid adventure. It's also the site of one of the most famous movies filmed in Iowa. What are some other creepy hikes in Iowa? Be sure to tell us about your favorites.

Feeling inspired? Try planning your own Hawkeye State adventure using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.