Iowa Scenic Byways
Driftless Area Scenic Byway
As glaciers scraped and smoothed the land that was to become Iowa, this corner of the state was left untouched. Here, the Mighty Mississippi and other rivers cut through limestone to form bluffs and hills, and dense forests spread through the valleys. Look out across the land from a ridge-top road, or pass by historic stone churches built by early settlers. At Mount Hosmer City Park in Lansing, catch a view of three states across the Mississippi River Valley. Prehistoric Indians built burial mounds along high bluffs in this area. Later, settlers farmed the hills, fished the rivers and creeks, and crafted buttons from the river shells. Spectacular scenery awaits you in the “driftless area.”
Find the Driftless Area Scenic Byway in Allamakee County. From Highway 76 near the Minnesota border, travel on Highways A26, 26, 9 and A52. Or from Postville, follow B38 northeast out of town and follow the signs across the Yellow River.
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