Posted in Iowa Hiking, Nature July 07, 2022 by

11 Easy, Breezy Summer Hikes In Iowa That Will Overwhelm You With Natural Beauty

Summertime is the perfect time to embark on the best hikes in Iowa. And those who are looking for new, scenic hikes in Iowa, peaceful trails, and kid-friendly hikes around Iowa will love any of the 11 trails listed below, which make for spectacular summer hikes in Iowa.

1. The High Trestle Trail, Madrid
Flickr / Phil Roeder
This hike can be a 25-mile trek from Woodward to Ankeny, but most people just hike or bike the bridge and trails around Madrid. The views of the Des Moines river from this stunning architectural marvel are unlike any other in the state, making for one of the most scenic hikes in Iowa.
High Trestle Trail, Iowa, USA
2. Ledges State Park, Boone
Flickr / Carl Wyckoff
Also among the most scenic hikes in Iowa, Ledges State Park is home to some of the prettiest scenery in the state, and the stunning cliffs and rock formations that you'll see are breathtaking. Visit this park in any weather to enjoy the well maintained trails.
Ledges State Park, P Avenue, Madrid, IA, USA
3. Lake MacBride State Park, Solon
Flickr / Tony Webster
Lake MacBride is the place to go on a hot summer day! Relax by the lake or hike to a waterfall where you can cool off, making for one of the best summer hikes in Iowa.
Lake Macbride State Park, 3525 Hwy 382 NE, Solon, IA 52333, USA
4. Effigy Mounds National Monument
Flickr / Keith Ewing
Home to some of the best hikes in Iowa, Effigy Mounds National Monument is a preserved park that's home to dozens of Native American burial mounds. The 7-mile Eagle Rock Trail will take you past many of them on your way to a stunning overlook of the Mississippi River Valley.
Effigy Mounds National Monument, Iowa 76, Harpers Ferry, IA, USA
5. Clark Tower, Winterset
Tripadvisor / BZimm08
Winterset's City Park is hiding a true gem - Clark Tower! Stroll through the park until you see it - it's pretty hard to miss. Kids and adults alike both enjoy climbing to the top of this unique lookout point, making for one of the most excellent kid-friendly hikes around Iowa.
Clark Tower Road, Clark Tower Rd, Winterset, IA, USA
6. Wabash Nature Trail
Flickr / SC Hargis
Pick up any part of the 63-mile Wabash Trace Nature Trail for a great hike between Council Bluffs to Blanchard. If you choose to hike the whole thing (in sections, or in one big weekend hike or bike trip!) you'll cross 70 restored railroad bridges.
Wabash Trace Nature Trail, Mineola, IA, USA
7. Pikes Peak State Park
Flickr / Jason Mrachina
Without a doubt one of the most spectacularly scenic hikes in Iowa, Pikes Peak shows off the best viewpoint in the state. If you're not looking for a strenuous hike but still want to see the sights, you can park near the top and hike around the overlook paths.
Pikes Peak State Park, 32264 Pikes Peak Rd, McGregor, IA 52157, USA
8. Hitchcock Nature Area
Flickr / Northern Lights 119
The Loess Hills show off some of Iowa's most unique landscape, and the Hitchcock Nature Area is one of the most serene places in the state.
Hitchcock Nature Center, 27792 Ski Hill Loop, Honey Creek, IA 51542, USA
9. Waubonsie State Park, Hamburg
Google Local / Lisa Grouette
Waubonsie State Park is another great spot to explore the Loess Hills. Take the Sunset Ridge Trail, one of the best hikes in Iowa, for an overlook of western Iowa that's hard to beat.
Waubonsie State Park, 2585 Waubonsie Park Rd, Hamburg, IA 51640, USA
10. Palisades-Kepler State Park, Mt. Vernon
Google Local / Dan McCann
One of the best places for summer hikes in Iowa, Palisades-Kepler is a beautiful state park that features a lake and some very peaceful trails. This is a great park to explore on a breezy summer day.
Palisades-Kepler State Park, 700 Kepler Dr, Mt Vernon, IA 52314, USA
11. Dunnings Spring Park, Decorah
Tripadvisor / Ima P.
Dunnings Spring Park is a small park in Decorah, near the Ice Cave. Offering one of the best kid-friendly hikes around Iowa, this family-friendly park features an easy walk to a waterfall, where you can see some of Iowa's natural beauty up close.
Dunning's Spring Park, Ice Cave Rd, Decorah, IA 52101, USA

What are you waiting for? Lace up your sneakers and take on one (or all) of these summer hikes in Iowa! Hiking is a great way to get up close and personal with the Hawkeye State.

So, what do you think? Are these the best hikes in Iowa? Ever trekked any of the trails listed above? Know of any other incredibly scenic hikes in Iowa? Tell us!

Can’t get enough of the best hikes in Iowa? Then you’re sure to love this scenic hike in Iowa, which boasts caves, water features, and other lovely sights.

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The OIYS Visitor Center

Best Hikes In Iowa

July 12, 2022
Daniella DiRienzo

What are the best beaches in Iowa?

When the summer temperatures start to soar, a visit to one of the best beaches in Iowa is in order. One swim spot that shouldn’t be overlooked is Big Creek Lake Beach. Located in Polk City, the beach is over 1,000 feet long, providing plenty of space for some fun in the sun. In addition to a refreshing lake and stretches of white sand, the beach boasts a playground, volleyball courts, and picnic sites. On-site rentals, which run the gamut from kayaks to bicycles, are also among the perks beachgoers can enjoy.

 What are the best waterfall hikes in Iowa?

There are quite a few waterfall hikes in Iowa, one of which can be found in Union Grove State Park. Located in Gladbrook, the park was established in the 1930s, and has been a go-to destination for outdoor enthusiasts ever since. The grounds include lots of lovely sights, including a waterfall and dam surrounded by towering trees and lush greenery. Miles of trails wind through the park, so visitors can easily explore the park’s waterfall and other picturesque sights. Not up for a hike? No problem; the waterfall can be easily viewed by driving around the park.