Take Advantage of These 3 Hikes With the Best Sunset Views in Iowa

Iowa is one of my favorite states. I've been all over the Midwest, and for one reason or another, Iowa repeatedly stands out as a beautiful place worth visiting and falling in love with - and I fell in love with it. I'm especially enamored with the great outdoors, especially the hiking and the sunsets. Check out three of my all-time favorite sunset hikes in Iowa that offer views to die for.

1. Lewis and Clark Monument Loop - Lewis and Clark Park

Lovers of shade trees, this one's perfect for you: With incredible views and to-die-for natural beauty along the way, the Lewis and Clark Monument Loop is just under four miles of exquisite wonder. Rated as moderately difficult, hikers can expect some steep parts and, following rain or snowmelt, some muddy spots as well. I strongly recommend packing plenty of water, no matter the time of year, and some bug spray - the warmer months are typically somewhat buggy, so be prepared. I promise, though, that every step is worth it just to watch the sun sink below the horizon from this perspective. And, for the record, Lewis and Clark State Park is also a gem.

2. Kruidenier Trail around Gray's Lake - Des Moines

Kruidenier Trail is a breathtaking urban trail that loops around Gray's Lake just outside of Des Moines. It presents an interesting experience as you wander from natural wonder to urban sprawl and back. You can access the trail from both the north and south entrances to Gray's Lake Park, and you can bring your pup, too - there are even places where you can have them off-leash (follow the signage to know where off-leash is allowed).

3. Mincer Trail and Sunset Ridge Trail Loop - Waubonsie State Park

The breathtaking - and easy - hike at Waubonsie State Park called the Mincer Trail and Sunset Ridge Trail Loop is two miles of wonder and whimsy. Views from the lookout point are second to none, offering an incredible perspective of Iowa's countryside from a unique spot. In my opinion, it's at its most beautiful in the warmer seasons when foliage is full and lush, but the incredible majesty of the region in the fall is also to die for. The Loess Hills are simply sublime, and this hike is a great way to enjoy it.

There you have them: three of the all-time best trails in Iowa for watching the sunset. Of course, the list doesn't begin or end with any single hike; Iowa is awesome, and you'll find countless trails that are sure to thrill you. Any hiking enthusiast should check out a free trial of AllTrails Plus - I don't remember how I ever hiked without it.