The Hawkeye State is a great place for nature lovers to explore. If you’re looking for a breath of fresh air, head to these nine natural wonders in Iowa and discover something incredible hiding right here in our little slice of paradise.

Exploring our state is always an adventure, but there’s so much to see beyond its borders! Sign up for our Bucket List Newsletter to see must-visit destinations throughout the nation and inspire your travels, both near and far.

1. West Lake Okoboji
West Okoboji Lake, Iowa, USA
Flickr / Mary Fairchild
If you have been searching for "natural wonders near me," then you are in the right place! Did you know that Iowa only has about 35 natural lakes? Most of them are up in the Iowa Great Lakes region, and the rest of the state is dotted by man-made bogs and reservoirs. West Lake Okoboji is the gem of the Iowa Great Lakes region, and when you visit, you'll see this Iowa natural wonder shine in the sun.
2. The Bluffs Of The Upper Iowa River
Upper Iowa River, Iowa, USA
Flickr / Ellen Macdonald
The Upper Iowa River is part of the Driftless Area, which remained untouched during the last Ice Age. The remarkable cliffs and bluffs can be experienced when you drop in to paddle down the river.
3. The Mississippi River From Pike's Peak
Mississippi River, United States
Flickr / Neal Wellons
The mighty Mississippi River has shaped so much of Iowa's history, and you can get a birds-eye view of this national treasure from the highest point in Iowa - Pike's Peak
4. Maquoketa Caves
Maquoketa Caves State Park, 9688 Caves Rd, Maquoketa, IA 52060, USA
Flickr / Michael Kappel
There's a stunning underground network of caves in Maquoketa that create the most remarkable Iowa natural wonders. You can visit many of them, but be sure you're not afraid of the dark!

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5. Malanaphy Springs
Malanaphy Springs, Iowa 52101, USA
Ellen Macdonald/Flickr
You'll have to walk about a mile from the trailhead to discover Malanaphy Springs Falls, but this is one of the most beautiful cascades in Iowa and it's so worth the effort.
6. The Loess Hills
Loess Hills State Forest, Jackson Township, IA 51564, USA
Flickr / Michael Leland
After miles and miles of flat farmland, suddenly, Western Iowa rises high above the Earth to show off the Loess Hills. The Hills, and the Missouri River Valley, are remarkable geographic wonders. These hills are some of the most beautiful places in Iowa.
7. Crystal Lake Cave
Crystal Lake Cave, 6684 Crystal Lake Cave Rd, Dubuque, IA 52003, USA
Flickr / Soumit Nandi
Visit Crystal Lake Cave to discover another wonder of the Driftless Region. On your tour, you'll learn all about these water-carved cave systems.
8. Decorah's Ice Cave
Ice Cave, 2559-2539 Ice Cave Rd, Decorah, IA 52101, USA
Kelly B/TripAdvisor
Step inside Decorah's Ice Cave in the middle of August and you'll find - ice?! This is a bizarre spot in the Hawkeye State that's sure to leave you scratching your head.
9. Dunning's Spring Falls
Dunning's Spring Park, Ice Cave Rd, Decorah, IA 52101, USA
Google Local / Adam Boggs
Just down the road from the Ice Cave, you'll find Dunning's Spring Falls. You can walk right up to the top of this Iowa waterfall and take in a breathtaking view. It's one of the best picnic spots in the state!

Which of these nine natural wonders of Iowa are you most looking forward to visiting? Have you been to any of them? Please let us know all about your experiences in the comments section. We would love to hear from you! And if you are looking for some great outdoor clothing to make sure you stay warm and comfortable on your walk, check out LL Bean.

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