Iowa might have some amazing metropolitan areas and natural destinations, but getting to one from the other can be quite the drive. You know what they say, though - some things in life are worth it. One of those things is definitely seeing the Loess Hills, one of the most geographically unique landscapes in the United States. Iowa's sprawling, windblown prairie is full of hidden gems, and you'll have to travel all the way to the western side of the state to explore West Oak Forest. This small natural area is home to the Loess Hills and West Oak Outlook Trail, an easy 1.9-mile out-and-back hike that provides a beautiful landscape and a big surprise at the end. It might be a journey to get here, but we guarantee you'll be glad you did when you take this remote hike in Iowa.

West Oak Forest is a laid-back and rustic area, so taking a hike here can feel like a trip into the unknown. Fear not, though - the area is smooth and easy to navigate, and all you'll need is a map and a good pair of hiking boots.

This is an ideal trail for beginners who want a less-crowded area to explore. You won't find any challenging terrain, and the elevation gain of 321 feet isn't too bad. Dogs are welcome to explore with you, as long as they're on a leash.

The trail is pretty straightforward, and you'll keep ascending up a grassy, but clearly marked trail, until you reach an impressive clearing. Get ready for a stunning view.

The outlook on this trail is well worth the journey, as the flat terrain surrounding the area makes it easy to see for what looks like miles around. The only thing better than a daytime view of this beauty?

A sunset view! You'll definitely want to stick around here until the sun goes down, because the colors over the Loess Hills make the entire area even more stunning.

Have you taken the Loess Hills and West Oak Outlook Trail? Let us know about your experience on this beautiful and remote hike in Iowa in the comments section! You can see more pictures on the AllTrails trail listing, and we highly recommend a subscription to AllTrails + when you're exploring more remote areas - the downloadable trail maps are a great security net when cell service can be spotty. This trail, of course, is just the beginning of your adventures in the area - head a little west to Council Bluffs and you'll find the beautiful Bayliss Park, a great family-friendly destination.