Grab the Gloves That Will Make This Hike in Iowa 100% Worth Braving the Cold

We in the Hawkeye State are lucky to experience four distinct seasons most every year, and for those of us who enjoy getting out on the trail, that means just about any weather is hiking weather. Just about. Thunderstorms are never a good idea - especially not the way we get them here in Iowa - and some days, it may just be too cold to hike. On the other hand, there are a few trails that are easier to hike in colder weather than others. Take the two-mile loop at Carlson Park in the historic town of Decorah, for instance. I think this is definitely one Iowa hike worth braving the cold to do - as long as you've got the right gear.

Carlson Park is one of the city's newest parks, and as of 2024, it was still being developed. There are a few benches and some barbecue grills. At this point, the surface of the trails in the 110-acre park is mowed turf. The two-mile Carlson Park loop is groomed for cross-country skiing in winter, but it is also open to hikers, snowshoers, and fat tire bikers along the sides of the groomed track. The trail is moderately challenging, with a modest 124 feet of elevation gain.

But as a relatively undeveloped park, you won't find too many other people on the trails at any time of year, especially in the winter. This means you'll have this wonderful winter wonderland to yourself on some of its most magically beautiful days. What more could you ask for in a hike?

One thing that will ensure you stay warm on the trail, no matter the activity in which you're partaking, is the right pair of gloves. Me? I love my Carhartt Storm Defenders. They've been my go-to gloves for a few years now, and they've kept my hands warm in all kinds of conditions. When walking or snowshoeing, there have been times that I've had to take them off to cool down. I've also stood around outside with a tripod and camera in 10°F. weather for half and hour waiting for an owl to do something interesting; my toes got cold, and my camera shut down, but my hands were fine.

I'm sure you'd appreciate these gloves on your next hike or ski at Carlson Park in Decorah. Have you had a chance to hike in this new park? What are some other great Iowa hikes that are worth braving the cold to do? We'd love to hear about them!