This Natural Wonder in Iowa Is the Definition of a Hidden Gem

I was in third grade when I first laid eyes on Pulpit Rock at Will Baker Park in Decorah, Iowa. I was camping with my family at the nearby namesake campground, and being a flatlander from the southern part of the state, I was in gape-mouthed awe of the towering limestone formation. Other than chasing trout with my Dad in nearby Twin Springs, I spent much of that weekend scrambling around on the Pulpit Rock bluffs. What I didn't know at the time was that those camping trips to Pulpit Rock were actually scouting expeditions, and not too much later, my family relocated from Iowa City to Decorah. So, I got to grow up hiking around the park. And as I got bigger, the trails got shorter, but I was still amazed by this rock formation in my backyard. Even though I moved for college and haven't lived in town for quite some time, I still think it's pretty darn cool, and I like to visit when I go back home.

In the time since I left, my charming hometown of Decorah has emerged as something of a tourist hotspot in the Hawkeye State, but with all the focus on the Upper Iowa River, the singletrack, and the waterfalls, Pulpit Rock is often overlooked as an area attraction. That's why I think it's one of the best natural hidden gems in Iowa.

The hike from the base of the bluff to the lookout over Pulpit Rock is pretty short loop - it comes in at only half a mile. But AllTrails rates it moderately challenging - and my middle-aged body agrees - due to the steep climb, stairs, and rough patches on the trail.

But the little bit of effort that the hike takes earns you a big payoff at the top, with awesome views of the - as you'll see from the overly - aptly named pulpit rock and the bucolic Upper Iowa River valley.

After you've had your fill of exploring Pulpit Rock and Will Baker City Park, keep the groove going with a cold beverage from Pulpit Rock Brewing Co., where you'll find 10 or so revolving brews on tap, as well as cans for sale. It's only a mile or so from its eponymous landmark, on the west side of the College Dr. bridge over the Upper Iowa River.

It's also a great jumping off point if you want to continue exploring the area with a visit to Dunning's Spring and/or Ice Cave State Preserve. These two popular parks are adjacent to each other on Ice Cave Road, just another mile or so downstream from the brewery. Dunning's Spring Park is home to Iowa's tallest waterfall. In the preserve, you'll find Ice Cave, which stays cool enough to preserve ice crystals throughout the year. Along with Pulpit Rock, these are two more reasons to visit the area. If you want to make a weekend of it, I recommend you book a stay at the Historic Hotel Winneshiek, which offers a prime Water St. location in Decorah's charming downtown area, as well as a great lobby bar. I think you'll really like it.