November 4, 2025

The 5 Best Hiking Trails in Iowa

Iowa’s Top 5 Hikes: The Best Trails Near Des Moines, Sioux City, and Dubuque

By Cap Puckhaber, Reno, Nevada

I’m Cap Puckhaber, a marketing professional, amateur investor, and part-time outdoor blogger. Today, we are breaking down some of the best hiking trails in the great state of Iowa.

Discovering Iowa’s Unexpected Hikes

Iowa is frequently recognized for its rolling farmland and charming small towns. However, the state also offers some truly incredible hiking opportunities. You will find no shortage of beautiful trails to explore, regardless of your location. This guide covers trails near Sioux City, the Cedar Rapids-Waterloo-Dubuque corridor, and the Des Moines-Ames area. We will explore everything from scenic river valleys and wooded bluffs to fascinating limestone caves.

Hikes Near Sioux City

Stone State Park

Located conveniently on the edge of Sioux City, Stone State Park provides a perfect option for those looking to experience nature without straying far from urban comforts. The park features several trails of varying difficulty. For instance, the rugged Dakota Point Trail provides stunning views of the Big Sioux River Valley. These trails range from easy one-mile walks to more strenuous five-mile hikes with challenging hilly terrain. Furthermore, the park welcomes leashed dogs, making it a great outing for you and your pet. Visitors will find the park easily accessible from Sioux City via Highway 12, and it offers ample parking.

Trails in Eastern Iowa (Cedar Rapids-Dubuque Corridor)

Backbone State Park

As Iowa’s first state park, Backbone State Park, located near Strawberry Point, remains one of the state’s most beloved hiking destinations. The park’s main highlight is the namesake Backbone Trail, which features steep, rocky outcroppings and incredible views of the Maquoketa River. While this specific moderate-to-difficult trail is about a mile long, the park offers over 20 miles of additional trails. Consequently, hikers can explore caves, shaded wooded paths, and numerous scenic overlooks. You can bring your leashed dog on the trails. This park is approximately an hour’s drive from the Cedar Rapids and Dubuque area, making it a very accessible day trip.

Mines of Spain Recreation Area

Just outside Dubuque, the Mines of Spain Recreation Area offers a compelling mix of history and natural beauty. Its trails wind through prairies, woodlands, and along high limestone bluffs overlooking the Mississippi River. A local favorite, the Julien Dubuque Monument Trail, leads hikers to a historic monument that provides sweeping river views. The trail systems range from easy half-mile walks to more challenging three-mile routes. This park also welcomes leashed dogs. Because the area is just a short drive from downtown Dubuque, it makes for an easy and rewarding escape into nature.

Central Iowa Hikes (Des Moines-Ames Area)

Ledges State Park

For anyone near the Des Moines-Ames area, Ledges State Park is an absolute must-see. This park has gained renown for its dramatic sandstone cliffs and lush forested trails, offering hikes that range from easy riverside strolls to challenging climbs. The Canyon Road trail is especially popular, featuring stone bridges and picturesque views of Pea’s Creek. In total, trails vary from under a mile to four miles. Additionally, the park is dog-friendly, provided your furry friend remains leashed. You can find this popular park about 45 minutes north of Des Moines and just 20 minutes from Ames.

Jester Park

Jester Park, located just outside Des Moines, is a fantastic family-friendly spot with scenic hiking trails and great opportunities to spot wildlife. For example, the Discovery Trail is perfect for beginners, as it offers a flat, easy loop with informative signs about local flora and fauna. More experienced hikers, on the other hand, might prefer the Lakeshore Trail, which winds along Saylorville Lake and provides beautiful water views. Trails here range from a half-mile to three miles. The park welcomes leashed dogs and is conveniently located about a 30-minute drive from Des Moines.

Lace Up Your Boots

Whether you are looking for a quick afternoon hike or a full day of outdoor adventure, Iowa’s diverse landscapes truly have something to offer every skill level. These trails showcase the state’s surprising natural beauty. You can experience the rugged bluffs of Backbone State Park in the east or the sandstone cliffs of Ledges State Park in the center. With dog-friendly policies at most parks, your four-legged hiking buddy can easily join the adventure. So, lace up your hiking boots, grab your leash, and start exploring the incredible outdoor spaces available all across Iowa. For even more options, you can explore the full directory at the Iowa Department of Natural Resources.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to pay an entrance fee for these Iowa parks?

One of the best benefits of hiking in Iowa is that Iowa state parks do not charge an entrance fee for residents or non-residents. This policy makes parks like Backbone, Ledges, and Stone very accessible. However, fees will still apply for other activities, such as reserving campsites, renting cabins, or using shelters. County parks, like Jester Park, may have their own fee structures, but hiking is generally free.

Are all these hiking trails dog-friendly?

Yes, all five parks featured in this article (Stone, Backbone, Mines of Spain, Ledges, and Jester) permit dogs on their trails. The universal rule is that dogs must be kept on a leash no longer than six feet at all times. This ensures the safety of your pet, other hikers, and the local wildlife. Always be sure to pack out any waste.

What is the best time of year to hike in Iowa?

Spring (April-May) and Autumn (September-October) are typically considered the best seasons for hiking in Iowa. Spring brings pleasant temperatures and blooming wildflowers. Autumn offers cooler, crisp air and stunning fall foliage, especially in the state’s wooded, hilly regions. Summer can be hot and humid with a higher presence of insects, so hikers should carry extra water and bug spray. Winter hiking is also possible and offers a unique, stark beauty, but you must prepare with proper footwear and cold-weather gear.

Can I go camping at these parks?

Most of the parks listed are excellent destinations for camping. Backbone State Park, Ledges State Park, and Jester Park all feature well-maintained campgrounds for both tents and RVs. The Mines of Spain is primarily a day-use area and does not offer camping. It is highly recommended to check the official park websites for availability and to make reservations in advance, as campgrounds fill up quickly, especially on weekends and holidays.

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About the author

Cap Puckhaber is a marketing strategist, finance writer, and outdoor enthusiast. He writes across CapPuckhaber.com, TheHikingAdventures.com, SimpleFinanceBlog.com, and BlackDiamondMarketingSolutions.com. Follow him for honest, real-world advice backed by 20+ years of experience.