This Is the Most Claustrophobic Hike in Iowa—Would You Try It?

The Hawkeye State is brimming with natural beauty. From river bluffs to rolling hills and scenic lakes to breathtaking overlooks, Iowa has every kind of hike. For many people, sweeping plains are the first things that come to mind when they think of Iowa. They might be surprised to learn that one of Iowa’s most picturesque and claustrophobic hikes is found underground at Maquoketa Caves State Park.

Located in Jackson County, Iowa, Maquoketa Caves State Park is in the eastern part of the state. The park has an otherworldly beauty featuring lush forests, towering rock formations, and more caves than any other state park in Iowa. These unique natural features have made Maquoketa Caves State Park a popular destination for hikers since the 1860s. Visitors can hike 6 miles of trails on a system that connects scenic overlooks and extraordinary caves.

For those who are willing to get themselves into tight spaces, the Maquoketa Caves Loop Trail is the best way to explore some of the park’s 13 caves. The 1.8-mile trail takes about one hour to complete. While all levels of hikers enjoy the trail, it is considered moderate in difficulty due to its stairs, slippery environments, and some narrow cave passages. 

Some of the caves can be explored by walking, while other caves require crawling or dropping down into a crevice. Hikers can decide how daring they want to be on this spelunking excursion, as the caves can be dangerous. Challenging spaces include the Up-N-Down Cave, which requires a downward drop to enter and a climb to exit, and Hernando’s Hideaway, where you will need to army crawl on your stomach.

Maquoketa Caves State Park also features less harrowing highlights, such as the 50-foot Natural Bridge. The 1,100-foot Dancehall Cave is the most popular in the park because you can walk on a sidewalk that is illuminated by lights instead of crawling in the dark dirt. According to legend, the cave was discovered in the 1800s by hunters following a wounded deer. Temperatures hover around a comfortable 48 degrees in Dancehall Cave. 

While Maquoketa Caves State Park is open to visitors all year, the caves are not. The caves in the park are closed annually from November 15 to April 1, serving as a shelter to protect overwintering bats. During your visit, stop at the interpretive center to learn about the park's history and natural highlights. The park also features picnic shelters, a playground, and campsites.

Before you visit Maquoketa Caves State Park, be sure to pack flashlights or headlamps. Lights were installed in Dancehall Cave by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s, but other caves do not have lights. Wear sturdy hiking boots to tackle the uneven and wet terrain. Although some of the hike will be spent inside the caves, you will want sunscreen for the outdoor portions as well as plenty of water. Just so you know, there is no mobile phone service available in the caves. For a little while at least, you will be off the grid and deep in adventure.

With a unique range of natural wonders to explore and a range of cave experiences, Maquoketa Caves State Park is appealing to hikers of all kinds. If you are planning a trip to Maquoketa Caves State Park, visit the Iowa Department of Natural Resources website for more information. Feeling inspired? Try planning your own trip using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.