The best hikes in Iowa include winter wonderlands, spots that come alive in the spring, places to escape the heat and crowds of summer, and stunning displays of fall foliage. Enjoy a little bit of every season in the Hawkeye State when you embark on these inviting adventures. We truly treasure living in Iowa, and the natural beauty is just one of many reasons we love it here!

Where do you plan to hike in the coming year? Let us know by nominating your favorite trail!

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best hikes in Iowa

What are some of the best hikes in Iowa?

While the list above certainly encompasses some of our favorite scenic hikes in Iowa, there are so many more that you can discover if you look around. Take a look at our list of the best waterfall hikes in Iowa and you'll see that the Hawkeye State has so much natural beauty just waiting to be discovered!

Are there any easy hikes in Iowa?

There certainly are easy, kid-friendly hikes in Iowa! One of our favorites is the short hike to Malanaphy Springs. The hike to the spring waterfall is just under a mile, so it won't tire the kiddos out too much. Splashing and playing in the waterfall is sure to cool anyone off on a hot day. Other easy, kid-friendly hikes in Iowa include just about any trail through Backbone State Park, and the stroll through Reiman Garden.

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