As summer turns to fall, it's the perfect time for exploring the great outdoors. The weather is getting cooler, the leaves are changing colors, and it just feels right to spend it in nature. Of course, for me nothing goes better with a hike than a visit to a winery to taste nature's bounty. Iowa is quickly developing its own Napa Valley, and I was surprised to find out that one of the best wineries in Iowa is actually located on the outskirts of Dubuque! Barrelhead Winery is a small craft winery with a tasting room, and it's also near an underrated county park. Swiss Valley Park in nearby Peosta is home to a charming nature center as well as what might be the best Iowa hike near a winery - the Swiss Valley Nature Preserve Loop, a 2.1-mile loop trail with amazing views. It all comes together into one of the best day trips possible in eastern Iowa.

Located only a short drive from Dubuque, Swiss Valley Park, along with the adjacent nature preserve and nature center are a hidden gem.

The park includes a 2.1-mile loop trail. Considered an easy route, it's popular with birders and takes only an hour to complete.

Simply wear comfortable shoes, and you should be fine exploring the straightforward trails and old-fashioned bridges.

While the trail's main attractions are the surrounding flora and fauna, you can also expect to see some interesting rock formations.

Make sure to visit the educational nature center while you're there, but your next destination is less than ten miles away on the outskirts of Dubuque.

Barrelhead Winery is one of Iowa's smaller craft wineries, but this local operation delivers great vintages every year.

The winery has been through a lot of changes, but it's currently open for tours and tastings.

The friendly staff will be happy to take you through the options and set up a tasting that shows you the winery's best.

It's a delicious, relaxing way to spend an early evening after a day of hiking!

Have you visited Barrelhead Winery and taken this underrated Iowa hike near a winery? Tell us all about your trip in the comments section. You can find out more on the Barrelhead Winery Facebook page, and check out the Swiss Valley Nature Preserve Loop page on AllTrails for more information on the hike. If you're an avid hiker, you’ll definitely want to subscribe to AllTrails Plus and gain full access to the site's collection of maps, suggestions, and other helpful features.