Iowa has no shortage of amazing places to hike but sometimes it can be hard to choose. Do you pick a trail where there’s a good chance you’ll see some Iowa wildlife? Or how about a trail that will will take you to some interesting ruins. Or maybe a hike that will lead to some Indian mounds and spectacular views?

Thanks for the Meadow and Quarry Trail in Iowa’s Bellevue State Park you don’t have to choose. The trail is a relatively easy hike with some great sights along the way. Mile for mile, it’s hard to beat this trail. Here’s a taste of what you can experience on this all-in-one hike.

Bellevue State park is divided into two units. The Meadow and Quarry Trail is located in the Nelson Unit, which is the north side of the park.
Alltrails / Craig Zedwick
An accessible portion of the hike will take you to a butterfly garden. Over the butterfly season, you can see 60 different types of butterflies here. The garden is rich in things that attract butterflies, including ragweed, goldenrod, lambsquarters, daisy fleabane and milkweed. If you have allergies, pop some medicine!
Alltrails / Diann Slater
The trail will take you through tranquil areas of restored prairie.
Alltrails / Lisa Rogers

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You'll also pass through some heavy forest on this hike.
Alltrails / Douglas Rogers
The trail passes some ruins of an old lime kiln - the stones resemble a bee hive. You can also see the remains of an old quarry. At the end of the hike, a short side trip will take you past an Indian mound and some scenic views of the Mississippi River.
Alltrails / Lucas Rorah
The park offers some panoramic views of Bellevue to the north.
Alltrails / Lucas Rorah

The whole hike will cover about 2 miles and is relatively easy to complete. Allow about an hour to do the hike, or a little more time if you want to take in the park’s views. If you’re interested in more short and scenic hikes, here are 12 that are perfect for any adventurer.

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Bellevue State Park - Nelson Unit, 24668 US-52, Bellevue, IA 52031, USA