Western Skies Scenic Byway
Image: Farmstead along Western Skies Scenic Byway. Photo by Ken West.
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The Western Skies Scenic Byway, dedicated in 1998, is among the first state-designated scenic byways in Iowa. Western Skies offers travelers several easy opportunities to venture off the beaten path. The Byway is 142 miles long, traveling through Harrison, Shelby, Audubon and Guthrie Counties, including 14 rural towns. It is easily accessible to travelers from both Interstates 80 and 29.
The byway allows visitors to explore and take in a scenic journey along Iowa’s landscapes of rolling hills, working farmsteads, and tranquil small town life. Whether you’re looking for a change of scenery or a change of pace, the Western Skies Scenic Byway offers both while showcasing Iowa’s agricultural past and cultural heritage. |
Explore the Byway
Learn about all the amenities and attractions to visit along the Western Skies Scenic Byway corridor.
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To expand the Google Map, click the bracket icon in the upper right corner.
Explore by County
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Travelers can start their byway journey just off of Exit 75 on I-29 near Missouri Valley. Taking Highway 30 east from Missouri Valley, travelers have the option to turn east onto State Highway 44 or to continue north into Woodbine where the byway forms a loop at County Road F32. Both routes lead travelers to Harlan, where they continue east on Highway 44 into the heart of the Danish countryside: Kimballton and Elk Horn. A spur of the Byway runs south from Kimballton on Highway 173 through Elk Horn and on to Interstate 80.
Back on Highway 44, follow the rolling ridge top through Hamlin and Guthrie Center, and into Panora. Turning south on to P28, the byway ends at Stuart, located along Interstate 80 at exit 93. |
Click a county below to learn about local attractions, businesses, parks, and more.
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Western Skies Birding Trail
Learn about places to go birding in the four Western Skies counties and which species of bird you might find.
Bike the Byway
Click the image below to learn about trails and recommended bicycling routes along Western Skies.
Events on the Byway
If you have an event to add to the calendar, email [email protected]
Contact
The Western Skies Scenic Byway is coordinated by Seth Brooks at Golden Hills RC&D. Seth's email is [email protected] and phone is 712-482-3029. Golden Hills is a nonprofit organization dedicated collaboratively developing and leading community, conservation, and cultural initiatives to improve our quality of life in rural western Iowa.