Loess Hills, Iowa
<< Previous Post | Main Blog Page | Next Post >>
When some hear mention of the state of Iowa, they think of corn fields as far as the eye can see. Others think of "The Music Man", a classic musical turned film starring Robert Preston. An additional group may think of the early political caucuses. When we think of Iowa, though, there's some natural beauty in the western part of the state not to be missed.
The Loess Hills (using the German pronunciation for Löss) is a scenic area of rolling hills and natural features along nearly the entire western side of Iowa. Situated just east of Interstate 29, the Lewis and Clark Trail in the Missouri Valley, a number of byways and road loops span seven counties, allowing visitors wonderful views of the natural area. Experience Preparation Canyon near the Loess Hills State Forest, perhaps stop by Small's Fruit Farm on your way in from the Lincoln Highway, or view from the tower at the Scenic Overlook on what is now Interstate 880, if coming in from Des Moines and points east.
While in the Loess Hills, stop by one of the Visitor Centers to pick up a map booklet to show the locations of the scenic byways and excursion loops. If you prefer something a little more self-discovered, the Western Iowa Tourism Region has placed signage all along the highways to mark each byway and loop in the area. Be ready for dirt and gravel roads along some of the loops, as not everything is paved. Perhaps park in one of the designated areas and go on one of the hiking trails.
The Lewis and Clark Trail and the Loess Hills are bound by two mid-major cities should re-supply be necessary. To the south is Council Bluffs IA, an up-and-coming city sistered on the other side of the Missouri River to Omaha NE. To the north is the tri-state metropolitan area of Sioux City. North Sioux City is in SD, South Sioux City in NE, and Sioux City itself in IA. Beautiful views of the Missouri River may also be found along this corridor, and although there are no trails directly along the river, similar to the Mississippi, several bridges span the wide Missouri to witness this mighty river.
So the next time you drive the country, don't count out Iowa as just another pass-through state. Your internal compass may tell you to stop by the Loess Hills in the Missouri Valley and experience its beauty.