Posted in Iowa Abandoned, Hiking, Nature March 07, 2022 by

The Creepiest Hike In Iowa Takes You To The Ruins Of An Abandoned School Bus

Wildcat Cave Trail in Eldora, Iowa might seem like an easy hike. At less than a mile in and out, it’s a perfect beginner’s hike for a nice day in the woods. Except those who take this trail experience something unusual, as it takes them through complex cave systems and eerie ruins. Come along with us, and discover why some call this humble trail Iowa’s creepiest hike…

The way into Wildcat Cave Trail seems peaceful. Located in the Wildcat Cave Wildlife Management Area, it's an easy trail for beginners.
Ryan Shepherd/AllTrails
But as you get a little deeper, you'll notice the feature that makes this trail notable - a large cave network complete with steep rock walls surrounding you.
Kelly Voss/AllTrails
The eerie feel of the area only increases when you see the odd rock formations lying about. Most likely they were put there by other visitors looking to make their mark - but many hikers give them a wide berth.
Dakota Cox/AllTrails
The area is dotted with entries to many small cave networks. It may be tempting to get closer...
Dakota Cox/AllTrails
However, the entries are small and should be appreciated from a distance. Many of them are already occupied - by bat colonies.
Christin Cordova/AllTrails
And many of the cave openings are higher up on the rock wall. Only the most adventurous climbers are even thinking about getting up there.
Christin Cordova/AllTrails
The Wildcat Cave Trail used to be home to a now-abandoned steel bridge. While the bridge is gone, remnants of it remain - like this fallen school bus.
Ryan Shepherd/AllTrails
How did it wind up there? How long has it been there? It's possible to get closer and examine it, but this landmark in the middle of a peaceful hike has led many to call this one of Iowa's eeriest locations - especially at night.
Dakota Cox/AllTrails

Have you braved the many twists and turns of the Wildcat Cave Trail? If you saw anything unusual, let us know in the comments section. Make sure to visit the website of Eldora, Iowa to see what else the area has waiting for you.

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Address: Wildcat Cave Access, 31504 215th St, Eldora, IA 50627, USA