Outdoor Activities in Iowa: These are 23 Fun Things To Do
🌲🚴 Get ready to unleash your adventurous spirit! 🎣🏞️ Dive into our latest blog post about “Outdoor Activities in Iowa” and discover 23 exciting ways to explore the great outdoors of the Hawkeye State. From serene kayaking 🛶 to thrilling snowboarding 🏂, Iowa has it all! Don’t miss out on these hidden gems! 💎 🌟
Quick Summary
Discover the adventurous side of Iowa! This article guides you through 23 thrilling outdoor activities in the Hawkeye State.
- Explore Diverse Landscapes: From fly fishing and ice climbing to scenic bike trails, Iowa offers a range of outdoor adventures. 🎣🚴
- Seasonal Activities: Enjoy year-round activities, including summer sailing and winter snowboarding. ⛵🏂
- Nature and Wildlife: Experience Iowa’s natural beauty through camping, kayaking, and wildlife observation. 🌲⛺
Outdoor Activities in Iowa: Fun Things To Do
Welcome to the wild side of the Hawkeye State. Step outside and let Iowa’s diverse landscapes be your playground. From cycling scenic trails to camping under the stars, Iowa provides an array of outdoor adventures to awaken your spirit of exploration. Embark on adventures that will fuel your passion for the great outdoors.
1. Fly Fishing on Trout Run Creek
Try your hand at fly fishing in the clear, cold waters of Trout Run Creek in Winneshiek County. It’s one of a few streams in Iowa that’s stocked with trout year-round.
2. Volga River State Recreation Area
Enjoy a range of outdoor activities such as horseback riding, hunting, fishing, and hiking in this diverse natural area located at 10225 Ivy Rd, Fayette, IA 52142.
3. Ride the Waverly Rail Trail
The Waverly Rail Trail in Iowa offers a scenic and enjoyable pathway for walking, running, and biking enthusiasts. This converted rail trail spans several miles, providing a picturesque route through beautiful natural landscapes and connecting the community of Waverly with outdoor recreational opportunities.
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4. Ice Climbing at the Silo, Cedar Falls
When winter comes, dare to scale the walls of an iced-over, 80-foot grain silo for a unique ice climbing experience. Silo Ice Climbing can be found at 2524 Jepsen Road, Cedar Falls, IA 50613.
5. Lewis and Clark State Park
Paddle around a beautiful 250-acre lake in a replica of Lewis and Clark’s keelboat or camp on the lakeshore in this historic park located at 2RVQ+C5, 21914 Park Loop, Onawa, IA 51040.
6. Waubonsie State Park
Hit the trails on horseback or hike through the park to enjoy the panoramic views of the unique Loess Hills landscape. Waubonsie State Park is located at 2585 Waubonsie Park Rd, Hamburg, IA 51640.
7. Swim or Sail in West Okoboji Lake
Have a refreshing summer swim or sail in the blue waters of one of Iowa’s largest natural lakes.
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8. Explore a Scenic Escape for Outdoor Enthusiasts
The Clive Greenbelt Trail is a scenic recreational trail nestled in the heart of Clive, Iowa. Spanning approximately eleven miles, this trail offers a picturesque escape for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a refreshing and tranquil experience. As you walk, run, or bike along the trail, you’ll be surrounded by lush greenery, serene waterways, and abundant wildlife, creating a rejuvenating and immersive connection with nature. With its well-maintained paths, rest areas, and stunning natural beauty, the Clive Greenbelt Trail is a beloved destination that invites visitors to embrace the great outdoors and enjoy a peaceful retreat in Clive, Iowa
9. Walnut Creek Regional Park in Urbandale
Mountain bike or hike through miles of wooded trails in this beautiful park. Enjoy birdwatching or catch a glimpse of deer.
10. Shooting the Rapids on the Upper Iowa River
Rent a canoe or kayak and navigate the swift currents of the Upper Iowa River, one of the best white water adventures in the state.
11. Camp at Prairie Rose State Park
Enjoy camping, swimming, boating, and fishing at this park. In winter, the park is open for cross-country skiing and ice fishing. Prairie Rose State Park (680 Rd M47, Harlan, IA 51537) is in beautiful Shelby County.
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12. Great River Road National Scenic Byway
Drive, bike, or motorcycle along the scenic byway, following the path of the mighty Mississippi River.
13. Spook Cave and Campground
Embark on a boat tour through a cave with only the guide’s headlamp lighting the way. Discover stalactites, stalagmites, and other intriguing cave formations. Fun abounds at Spook Cave and Campground (13299 Spook Cave Rd, McGregor, IA 52157).
14. Starr’s Cave Nature Center
Climb the limestone cliffs, explore the caves, or wander the nature trails at this beautiful park. Starr’s Cave Nature Center is located at 11627 Starrs Cave Park Rd, Burlington, IA 52601.
15. Camping at Honey Creek Resort State Park
Experience the outdoors by camping under the stars at this resort park. Enjoy the golf course, water park, and multiple nature trails at Honey Creek State Park (12194 Honey Creek Pl, Moravia, IA 52571).
16. Snowboarding at Seven Oaks Recreation
Hit the slopes for some winter fun at Seven Oaks Recreation (1086 222nd Dr, Boone, IA 50036). The recreation area offers skiing, snowboarding, and snow tubing.
17. Geode Hunting at Geode State Park
Hunt for geodes, the Iowa state rock, known for their crystal-filled interiors. Please remember to follow all park rules and regulations while visiting Geode State Park (3333 Racine Ave, Danville, IA 52623).
18. Sailing on Clear Lake
Rent a sailboat and catch the wind on Clear Lake. Enjoy the sights of the shoreline and the beautiful lake scenery.
19. Horseback Riding at Jester Park Equestrian Center
Take a guided trail ride through the beautiful woodland and prairie landscapes of Polk County during your visit to Jester Park Equestrian Center (11171 NW 103rd Ct, Granger, IA 50109).
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20. A Winter Wonderland for Snow Sports Enthusiasts
Nestled in Honey Creek, Iowa, Mt. Crescent Ski Area (17026 Snowhill Ln, Honey Creek, IA 51542) is a winter wonderland that beckons snow sports enthusiasts of all skill levels. With its well-groomed slopes, diverse terrain, and modern amenities, this ski area offers an exhilarating experience for skiers, snowboarders, and tubers alike. Whether you’re seeking the thrill of speeding down the slopes or looking to enjoy a fun-filled day with family and friends, Mt. Crescent Ski Area is the perfect destination to embrace the snowy season and create lasting memories in Iowa.
21. Snowshoeing at F.W. Kent Park
Rent some snowshoes and explore the winter wonderland of F.W. Kent Park. During the summer, visitors enjoy hiking and camping in the scenic prairies, wetlands and majestic forests that can be found at F.W. Kent Park (2048 US-6 NW, Oxford, IA 52322).
22. Mountain Biking at Sunderbruch Park Trail
Tackle the challenging off-road mountain biking trails at Sunderbruch Park in Davenport. The park and trail can be accessed from Telegraph Road, where visitors will find the trailhead and free parking.
23. Kayaking the Maquoketa River Water Trail
Paddle down the scenic Maquoketa River in Jones County, passing limestone bluffs, forests, and abundant wildlife.
Conclusion: Outdoor Activities in Iowa
Remember, whether you’re chasing an adrenaline rush or seeking quiet contemplation, Iowa’s great outdoors has something for every explorer. Let your journey in nature inspire a deeper connection with the world around you.
