Let’s get real out of what we want from summer this year – time spent in the great outdoors, grass (or sand, or water) under our feet and the feeling of the sun on our face. It’s not about the activity; it’s about getting outside. But sometimes just being outside isn’t enough. If you’re looking for an adrenaline-pumping adventure, Iowa’s got the options to get outdoors – with a touch of different, daring, unique (and often, free) added in.
Get Out There This Summer
If it’s a rugged adventure you’re looking for, you’ve come to the right place.
Whitewater excursions, camping under the stars, (literally) breathtaking bike trails and more await.
Whitewater
In the Driftless Area (Northeast Iowa), you’ll find an outdoor oasis that’s home to stunning limestone bluffs, winding scenic byways and flowing rivers. If the rivers sound particularly interesting, let us recommend Iowa River Parks – three whitewater destinations, all within one connected river corridor. Between Cedar Falls, Manchester and Charles City, there’s a thrilling ride to be had for beginners and seasoned paddlers alike.
Rock Climbing
Iowa offers diverse climbing experiences across the state, each with unique characteristics. Basically, it’s a choose-your-own-adventure type deal.
For a challenge, Backbone State Park features rugged dolomite limestone cliffs near the Backbone Trail and requires registration, while Indian Bluffs caters to experienced climbers with nearly 30 taller, more difficult limestone routes. Joinerville Park and the Ozark Wildlife Climbing Area offer excellent bouldering and sport climbing options along the scenic Maquoketa River.
Last but not least, Palisades-Kepler State Park combines top-rope and bouldering opportunities with dramatic river bluffs and thick vegetation for a beautiful climbing experience near Mount Vernon.
For a challenge, Backbone State Park features rugged dolomite limestone cliffs near the Backbone Trail and requires registration, while Indian Bluffs caters to experienced climbers with nearly 30 taller, more difficult limestone routes. Joinerville Park and the Ozark Wildlife Climbing Area offer excellent bouldering and sport climbing options along the scenic Maquoketa River.
Last but not least, Palisades-Kepler State Park combines top-rope and bouldering opportunities with dramatic river bluffs and thick vegetation for a beautiful climbing experience near Mount Vernon.
Spelunking
Spelunkers and those just looking to cool off this summer are sure to love Iowa’s caves. Maquoketa Caves is probably Iowa’s most well-known and unique state park. Here, caves vary from the 1100’ Dancehall Cave with walkways and lighting system to the more diminutive Dugout Cave. Ice Cave State Preserve is famous for its rare ice deposits that last until late summer – to see maximum thickness, plan to visit in June.
Spook Cave (near McGregor) must be explored by boat, and once you’re in, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to see gorgeous natural formations inside the fully lit cave.
Spook Cave (near McGregor) must be explored by boat, and once you’re in, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to see gorgeous natural formations inside the fully lit cave.
Camping
Although Iowa is no stranger to glamping experiences, these locales are for those looking to camp the old-fashioned way (you know, in a tent, on the ground). With rustic camping and beautiful scenery, Yellow River State Forest is an ideal getaway, especially if you love trout fishing. For those looking for hiking before pitching your tent, Wildcat Den State Park near Muscatine is a spot that locals love.
In the Loess Hills and Beyond (Southwest Iowa), check out Preparation Canyon State Park, a remote getaway that’s perfect for getting off the grid. Also in the area, you’ll find Hitchcock Nature Center just north of Council Bluffs. Here, you’ll find trails, tucked away camping spots and a stunning tower with panoramic views of the Hills.
If you’re near Des Moines, less than an hour drive away is Ledges State Park, one of Iowa’s most historic and unique outdoor destinations. With several walk-in sites that are secluded, sandstone ledges and a four-mile trail system, Ledges is a great spot to unplug while staying close to the city.
In the Loess Hills and Beyond (Southwest Iowa), check out Preparation Canyon State Park, a remote getaway that’s perfect for getting off the grid. Also in the area, you’ll find Hitchcock Nature Center just north of Council Bluffs. Here, you’ll find trails, tucked away camping spots and a stunning tower with panoramic views of the Hills.
If you’re near Des Moines, less than an hour drive away is Ledges State Park, one of Iowa’s most historic and unique outdoor destinations. With several walk-in sites that are secluded, sandstone ledges and a four-mile trail system, Ledges is a great spot to unplug while staying close to the city.
Biking
For experienced cyclists, RAGBRAI is likely already on your list, but we’ll reiterate that world’s oldest, largest and longest recreational bicycle touring event is absolutely worth your time. It’s a bucket list experience that attracts cyclists from all over the world for a reason.
Of course, there’s more to biking in Iowa than RAGBRAI. As the World Capital of Trails, you can bet your bottom dollar there’s a biking adventure perfect for you. If RAGBRAI is a bit too lengthy, but you’re still looking for a rugged ride, Decorah and Mason City were just named IMBA Trail Towns – just two of 28 cities across the country honored with that title.
Of course, there’s more to biking in Iowa than RAGBRAI. As the World Capital of Trails, you can bet your bottom dollar there’s a biking adventure perfect for you. If RAGBRAI is a bit too lengthy, but you’re still looking for a rugged ride, Decorah and Mason City were just named IMBA Trail Towns – just two of 28 cities across the country honored with that title.
