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News

Hiking the Glacial Trail Scenic Byway: Clay County

5/31/2023

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Photo of Bertram Reservation by Lynn Graesing
Our last post in the Hiking the Byways series takes us to Clay County on the Glacial Trail Scenic Byway. There are multiple areas open to hiking in the county, some with maintained trails like Bertram Reservation. If you are looking for off-trail exploration, there are 15 wildlife management areas and numerous county properties to explore native prairie, bottomland timber, and the Little Sioux River.
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Bertram Reservation

​​Manager: Clay County Conservation
Location: 
Peterson, IA 51047
Acres: 240
Trails: Yes, for hiking and horseback riding
Camping: No
Amenities: None
Dogs: Yes, on leash
Hunting: Yes

240-acre wildlife area with oak savannah prairie that has hiking trails as well as equestrian trails. Horseback riding is closed from October 1st to May 31st.
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Click to see a larger version

Scharnberg Park
​​
Manager: Clay County Conservation
Location: 
3430 145th Ave, Everly 51338
Acres: 55
Trails: Yes
Camping: Yes
Amenities: Beach, shelters, restrooms, water, playground
Dogs: Yes, on leash
Hunting: No

Enjoy the one-mile trail around the pond and park!
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No map available

Oneota Park

Manager: Clay County Conservation
Location: 
420 10th Ave SE, Spencer 51301
Acres: 223
Trails: Yes, two miles of mowed trails
Camping: No
Amenities: Pit toilets, shelter
Dogs: Yes, on leash
Hunting: No

Oneota Park is home to the Clay County Conservation Board Headquarters and Oneota Lodge.  The park is 223 acres of rolling prairie bordered by the Little Sioux River and bottom ground timber.  The park has mowed trails in a natural prairie grass area.    The combined trail length is over two miles.
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No map available

Other Areas in Clay County

Wanata Park - ​Wanata Park is a 144-acre park situated along the Little Sioux River next to the town of Peterson.  Come enjoy the trails as you hike along the flood plains or hills of the Little Sioux River.

Bob Howe Thunder Bridge Wildlife Refuge - 29.5 Acre wildlife refuge with the Little Sioux River flowing through it. Bike and hiking trail. Home to historic Thunder Bridge, a through truss bridge built in 1905.

Donahoo Wildlife Area - 171 acre wildlife area located in both Clay and Buena Vista counties.  It is located in the Little Sioux flood plain with prairie uplands and Oak Savannah prairie remnants.

Kindlespire Complex - 310-acre wildlife area located along the Little Sioux River with hiking trails.

Mori Prairie - 40 acres of open prairie. Ideal for pheasant hunting using non-toxic shot and bird watching. Outstanding for those who are interested in native plant ecology. One of the very few pristine native prairies in Clay County.

Riverton Wildlife Area - 160-acre wildlife area along the Ocheyedan River open to hiking.

Schmerse Wildlife Area - Hiking trail around the pond.

Stouffer Memorial Wildlife Preserve - 20 acre wildlife reserve located along the Little Sioux River off of Highway 18.

Summit Wildlife Area - Summit Wildlife Area is approximately 132 acres of re-constructed prairie area located on the Little Sioux River.  

Wildlife Management Areas

There are 15 wildlife management areas in Clay County. These areas are managed by the Iowa DNR and are open to hunting. There are no maintained trails, however, some may have maintenance tracks that can be used for hiking. Off-trail hiking is permitted, but take caution during hunting season to not disturb wildlife or hunters. Go to the Iowa DNR's website to search for WMAs in Clay County.

Hiking the Byways is a regular series by Golden Hills RC&D that features publicly accessible lands open to hiking on the three scenic byways in western Iowa that Golden Hills RC&D coordinates: Glacial Trail Scenic Byway, Loess Hills National Scenic Byway, and Western Skies Scenic Byway. Each Friday a blog post covers hiking areas in one county on one of the aforementioned byways. For questions about hiking on the byways, contact Seth Brooks (seth.brooks@goldenhillsrcd.org).

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Hiking the Western Skies Scenic Byway: Guthrie County

5/24/2023

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Whiterock Conservancy (photo by Lance Brisbois)
Guthrie County is the easternmost county on the Western Skies Scenic Byway, and the final county in our Hiking the Byways series for Western Skies.

Two excellent areas for hiking,  Whiterock Conservanc y and Springbrook State Park, are short drives north from the byway. Whiterock is famous for dark, starry skies at night. Fall colors are Springbook are a top attraction for hikers.  Sheeder Prairie State Preserve, Sutcliffe Woodland, and other natural areas make Guthrie County a hidden gem for hiking between Des Moines and Council Bluffs.
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Whiterock Conservancy​

​
Manager: Whiterock Conservancy
Location: 
1436 IA-141, Coon Rapids 50058
Acres: 5,500
Trails: Over 40 miles of multi-use trails
Camping: Yes, modern and tent
Amenities: Restrooms and water
Dogs: Yes. Dogs may be off-leash they are well behaved and stay in close proximity to you while you are hiking. During burn and hunting season all pets must be kept on a leash for their safety. 
Hunting: No

​Whiterock Conservancy is a 5,500 acre, nonprofit land trust dedicated to providing educational and recreational opportunities for the public, improving and protecting the land through conservation, and demonstrating sustainable farming methods.
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Click to download the PDF map
Explore over 40+ miles of hiking, mountain biking, equestrian, and UTV trails; set up camp in our RV or tent camping areas; or enjoy the comforts of home in one of our vacation rentals.

A Whiterock Conservancy trail pass is required for all visitors mountain biking and horseback riding on the trails. A trail pass is not required for walking or hiking, however a suggested donation of $2 is appreciated. The annual pass is good for the calendar year and the daily pass is good for the day of purchase.​
​
Trail fees help cover the cost of maintenance, as well as preserve the landscape. Self-serve kiosks are located with payment envelopes throughout Whiterock Conservancy and can be found at the campgrounds, trailheads, Bur Oak Visitor's Center, and the Historic Garst Farmstead.

(text source: Whiterock Conservancy)
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Source: Whiterock Conservancy

​Springbrook State Park

​Manager: Iowa DNR
Location: 2437 160th Road Guthrie Center 50115
Acres: 930
Trails: 12 miles of hiking and biking trails
Camping: Yes, electric & non-electric
Amenities: Playground, Swimming beach, Shelters, Modern restrooms (ADA accessible), Showers (ADA accessible)
Dogs: Yes, on leash
Hunting: No
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Click to download the PDF map
​Springbrook State Park is a quiet retreat in Guthrie County, encompassing 930 acres of rolling hills and mature timber. Many of the park’s structures were built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in the 1930s, creating a nostalgic setting for park visitors. A multifamily cabin called the Sherburne House is perfect for large families or groups, and the lake is a popular destination for swimming and kayaking.

​Hike or bike
 12 miles of trails at Springbrook, offering leisurely routes through timber and prairie areas or more challenging paths for the seasoned hiker or biker. Trails also lead to small ponds, the Middle Raccoon River, and the park’s 17-acre lake. Snowmobiling is allowed on four miles of designated trails in the winter.

(text source: Iowa DNR)

​Sheeder Prairie State Preserve

​Manager: Iowa DNR
Location: 
Guthrie Center, IA 50115
Acres: 25
Trails: No but hiking is allowed
Camping: No
Amenities: None
Dogs:
Yes, however, no dogs are allowed during nesting season March 15 to July 15.​​
Hunting: Yes

Sheeder Prairie is a 25-acre tallgrass prairie. It is located five miles west of Guthrie Center in Guthrie County. The property was purchased in 1961 by the Iowa Conservation Commission from Oscar and Clara Sheeder, the son and daughter-in-law of the original homesteader. It was dedicated as a biological state preserve in 1968. ​
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Click to download the state preserves guide
This preserve lies within the Southern Iowa Drift Plain, a landform region of gently rolling terrain. Over 200 plant species are found in this preserve, including thirty grasses. The prairie hilltops and slopes contain big bluestem, little bluestem, por­cupine grass, and prairie dropseed along with leadplant, rosinweed, prairie willow, and redroot. Prairie phlox, golden alexanders, flowering spurge, rattlesnake master, purple coneflower, and gray-headed coneflower are also common. The wooded ravines are dominated by box elder, wild plum, and black willow.

In the spring, prairie false dandelion, bird’s-foot violet, prairie violet, lousewort, and hoary puccoon are among the first plants to begin blooming. By May, ground plum, indigo bush, blue-eyed grass, prairie ragwort, tall green milkweed, prairie lark­spur, and yellow stargrass join the display. Prairie loosestrife, butterfly weed, purple prairie clover, compass plant, ironweed, wild bergamot, rough blazing star, and prairie blazing star can be found in June and July. Nodding ladies’-tresses, white sage, silky aster, sky-blue aster, showy goldenrod, Canada goldenrod, smooth goldenrod, and downy gentian bloom during the fall months.

​A total of sixty-nine species of birds can be found here, with twenty-five nesting on a regular basis. Nearly three-fourths of the nesting species are woodland species. Two grassland species, the bobolink and grasshopper sparrow, nest sporadically. Several preferring the woodland edge habitat found here include gray catbird, eastern kingbird, brown thrasher, rosebreasted grosbeak, red-headed woodpecker, downy woodpecker, blackcapped chickadee, Baltimore oriole, northern cardinal, house wren, and American goldfinch.

The Conservation Education Center, located at Springbrook State Park north of Guthrie Center, sponsors workshops and interpretive events that often include field trips to Sheeder Prairie.

(text source: Iowa DNR state preserves guide)

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​Nations Bridge Park

​Manager: Guthrie County Conservation
Location: 2997 Wagon Rd, Stuart 50250
Acres: 81
Trails: Nature trails, including one self-guided
Camping: Yes, primitive and modern
Amenities: Water, restrooms, shelters, picnic area, playground
Dogs: Yes, on leash
Hunting: Hunting in designated areas only.
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​Nations Bridge Park offers a variety of recreational opportunities to the public and is a favorite spot for many.  The park has a total of 81 acres that can be used for camping, picnicking, kayaking, hiking, bird watching fishing, disc golf, and horse shoes. Wildlife is abundant at Nations Bridge Park. Deer, turkeys, squirrels, rabbits, quail, raccoons, coyotes, and a variety of songbirds can be seen at the park. Nature trails can be found throughout the park and a self-guided nature trail is located on the east side of the park, County Highway P28.

(text source: Guthrie County Conservation)

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​Sutcliffe Woodland

v​Manager: Guthrie County Conservation
Location: 2416 Frost Ln, Guthrie Center
Acres: 55
Trails: Yes, including a self-guided interpretive nature trail
Camping: None
Amenities: tbdms
Dogs: Yes, on leash
Hunting: Hunting in designated areas only.
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Download the booklet on the park's website
Sutcliffe Woodland is a beautiful, 55-acre oak-hickory area designated as a wildlife refuge. It offers a 31-post, self-guided interpretive nature trail, as well as picnicking, hiking, and pond fishing. 

​
(text source: Guthrie County Conservation)​
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​Raccoon River Valley Trail

The Raccoon River Valley Trail is an 89-mile, paved, multi-use recreational trail that extends from Clive, in the Des Moines-metropolitan area, to Jefferson. The 33-mile "North Loop" was completed in 2013 making this trail one of the longest in the United States. The trail is built on the former Milwaukee RR track now owned by the Dallas, Greene, and Guthrie County Conservation Boards.​
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Click the map for the trail's main webpage
The trail winds its way through the Middle and North Raccoon River corridors with areas of prairie and canopies of timber that remind us of what Iowa was like in the 1870's. Common uses for the multi-recreational trail are hiking, biking, walking, in-line skating, jogging, bird watching , or cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling in the winter.

Trailheads in Guthrie County:
  • Panora - 600 E Main Street  (Google Map)
  • Yale - Corner of Railroad and South Street (Google Map)
  • Herndon - Herndon Road (Google Map)
  • Jamaica - South Main Street (Google Map)

(text source: Guthrie County Conservation)

The following Guthrie County Conservation properties are open to hiking but have no maintained trails:
  • Bennie Hall Wildlife Area
  • Bundt Prairie
  • Monteith Wildlife Area
  • S.E. Robinson Wildlife Area

Hiking the Byways is a regular series by Golden Hills RC&D that features publicly accessible lands open to hiking on the three scenic byways in western Iowa that Golden Hills RC&D coordinates: Glacial Trail Scenic Byway, Loess Hills National Scenic Byway, and Western Skies Scenic Byway. Each Friday a blog post covers hiking areas in one county on one of the aforementioned byways. For questions about hiking on the byways, contact Seth Brooks (seth.brooks@goldenhillsrcd.org).
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25 Scenic Overlooks on the Loess Hills National Scenic Byway

5/23/2023

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Loess Hills Scenic Overlook (© 2016 Kenneth West)
"I like this place and willingly could waste my time in it."
Shakespeare, As You Like It


To celebrate National Photography Month, we have put together a list of 25 scenic overlooks and viewpoints on or near the Loess Hills National Scenic Byway. Some require no hiking, while other viewpoints, such as Mount Lucia in Stone State Park, can only be reached by hiking to them.

Below is an interactive Google Map to find where the overlooks are located. Also, we have included pictures of the overlooks, but not from each one on the list. Below the photos is a complete list of the 25 overlooks with more information.
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Aalfs Family Preserve
Land status - Broken Kettle Grasslands
Overlook location - Butcher Rd south of Westfield
Access - via a kissing gate on Butcher Rd
Notes - Bench and interpretive panel overlooking the bison enclosure

Five Ridge Prairie Cabin

Land status - Five Ridge Prairie State Preserve
Overlook location - 26616 IA-12, Westfield, IA 51062
Access - Requires a hike up a steep trail
Notes - Cabin is perched on the ridge overlooking the Bix Sioux River and the Missouri River floodplain


Elk Point Overlook
Land status - Stone State Park
Overlook location - Stone State Park Dr, Sioux City, IA 51109
Access - Parking area on the park road
Notes - Overlooks the southern section of the state park


Dakota Point Overlook
Land status - Stone State Park
Overlook location ​- Dakota Point Rd, Sioux City, IA 51109
Access - Parking area on the park road
Notes - Overlooks the Big Sioux River and South Dakota


Kestrel Point
Land status - Dorothy Pecaut Nature Center
Overlook location - Bluestem Trail
Access - Requires hiking the nature center trails
Notes - Overlooks the nature center

Mount Lucia

Land status - Stone State Park
Overlook location ​- Mt. Lucia Trail
Access - Requires hiking the state park trails
​Notes - Views of Sioux City


War Eagle Park
Land status - War Eagle Park
Overlook location - Sioux City, IA 51103
Access - Ample parking lot
Notes - Overlooking I-29, the Missouri River, and Nebraska


Sergeant Floyd Monument
Land status - Sergeant Floyd Monument
Overlook location - 2601 S Lewis Blvd, Sioux City, IA 51103
Access - Ample parking lot
Notes - Views of I-29, Sioux City, Missouri River, and Nebraska

Loess Hills Scenic Overlook
Land status - Loess Hills State Forest - Preparation Canyon Unit
Overlook location - Oak Ave, Moorhead, IA 51558
Access - Wood platform that is wheelchair and stroller accessible
Notes - Interpretive panels and views of prairie ridges and state forest

Preparation Canyon State Park Viewpoint
Land status - Preparation Canyon State Park
Overlook location - Moorhead, IA 51558
Access - Via hiking trail; quickest access via the overnight camping parking lot off Highway 183
Notes - Bench atop a prairie ridge with views of the state park and Soldier River Valley

Murray Hill Scenic Overlook
Land status - Harrison County Conservation
Overlook location - 1634 Co Rd F20, Little Sioux, IA 51545
Access - Requires a short hike from the parking lot
Notes - Interpretive panels, picnic table, bench, and views of the Missouri River floodplain
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Little Sioux Viewpoint
Land status - Loess Hills State Forest - Little Sioux Unit
Overlook location - 41.773667, -96.004111
Access - Requires hiking up a steep trail from the parking lot on 165th Trail
Notes - Bench overlooking the junction of the Soldier River Valley and Missouri River floodplain, and views of the Mondamin unit of the state forest

Mondamin Viewpoint

Land status - Loess Hills State Forest - Mondamin Unit
Overlook location - 41.721694, -95.964556
Access - Requires hiking the state forest trails, including a steep section from the south trailhead on Highway 127
Notes - Bench atop a steep ridge with views west of the Missouri River floodplain

Lincoln Highway Overlook
Land status - Harrison County Iowa Welcome Center
Overlook location - 2931 Monroe Ave, Missouri Valley, IA 51555
Access - Requires walking a paved path from the welcome center
Notes - Overlooking the Lincoln Highway

Loveland Scenic Overlook Tower
Land status - I-880 rest area
Overlook location - 16614 I-880, Honey Creek, IA 51542
Access - Stairs to top of the overlook tower
Notes - Overlooking I-880 and the surrounding Loess Hills

Loess Hills Lodge & HawkWatch Tower
Land status - Hitchcock Nature Center
Overlook location - 27792 Ski Hill Loop, Honey Creek, IA 51542
Access - HawkWatch Tower requires climbing up stairs, while there is a viewing platform around the Lodge
Notes - Views of the nature center​

Badger Ridge Viewpoint

Land status - Hitchcock Nature Center
Overlook location - Badger Ridge Trail
Access - Requires hiking one-half mile from the Badger Ridge Trailhead
Notes - Views of the southern section of the nature center and the Simon Run valley

Lewis & Clark Monument Overlook
Land status - Lewis and Clark Monument Park
Overlook location - 19962 Monument Rd, Council Bluffs, IA 51503
Access - Accessible for wheelchairs and strollers
Notes - Views of planes landing and taking off from Eppley Airfield and the Omaha skyline

Lookout Point
Land status - Fairmount Park
Overlook location - End of Park Rd
Access - Small parking area at the end of Park Rd
Notes - Views west of Council Bluffs and downtown Omaha

West Oak Forest Viewpoint
Land status - West Oak Forest
Overlook location - 41.0742, -95.81053
Access - Requires a steep hike from the parking lot to the ridge, then additional hiking along the ridge
Notes - Views of the Missouri River floodplain

Pony Creek Park Overlook Tower
Land status - Pony Creek Park
Overlook location - 41.06962, -95.78753
Access - Requires hiking the park's trails
Notes - Views of Pony Creek

Mile Hill Lake Scenic Overlook
Land status - Mile Hill Lake
Overlook location - 21193 US, Mile Hill Lake Park, US-34, Pacific Junction, IA 51561
Access - Viewing platform at the parking lot
Notes - Overlooking Mile Hill Lake

Riverton Wildlife Overlook
Land status - Riverton Wildlife Management Area
Overlook location - 40.7181, -95.5658
Access - Wood platform 
Notes - Overlooking the northern section of the wildlife area

Waubonsie State Park Scenic Overlook
Land status - Waubonsie State Park
Overlook location - 40.67549, -95.69093
Access - Near the parking lot near the park office
Notes - Benches and interpretive panels overlooking the state park
​
Sunset Ridge Viewpoint
Land status - Waubonsie State Park
Overlook location ​- 40.67206, -95.70318
Access - Requires hiking Sunset Ridge Trail

Notes - Interpretive panel and view overlooking the Missouri River floodplain

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Hiking the Loess Hills National Scenic Byway: Fremont County

5/19/2023

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© 2016 Kenneth West
This week's Hiking the Byways installment takes us to the southern terminus of the Loess Hills National Scenic Byway. Fremont County is home to Waubonsie State Park, a great place to view fall's vibrant colors from its overlooks and wandering trails. Less than one hour from Omaha, Waubonsie is a popular destination, and as a result, it is only one of two state parks in Iowa that charges an entrance fee to out-of-state visitors, If you'd like a solitary experience, the Blackburn State Unit of Waubonsie offers two miles of trails. Fremont County is also one of the best places to go birding in Iowa. While there are no official trails, hiking is allowed throughout Riverton Wildlife Area, a major stopover for migratory waterfowl during spring and fall migrations. 
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​Waubonsie State Park​

Manager: Iowa DNR
GPS:
40.675612, -95.686675
Acres: 2,000
Trails: 8 miles of hiking trails, 8 more miles of multi-use trails north of Highway 2
Camping: Cabins, modern campground, and non-electric campsites
Amenities: Playground, day-use lodg, shelters, modern restrooms
Dogs: Yes, on leash
Hunting: No

Waubonsie State Park in southwest Iowa is known for its exceptional vistas of Iowa’s unique Loess Hills and the Nebraska plains. Its extensive trail system offers something for the avid mountain biker, equestrians looking for a relaxing ride, or
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Click to download the PDF version
anyone eager to hike amongst the tranquil surroundings of the park’s ridgetop prairies and shaded woodland valleys. With nearly 2,000 acres of recreational opportunity and quiet beauty, Waubonsie State Park is an Iowa gem waiting to be explored.
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© 2016 Kenneth West
Named for Chief Waubonsie of the Native American Pottawattamie tribe, the park is much the same today as it was when it was purchased in 1926. The changing seasons complement the beauty of this countryside. Spring brings the blossoms of dozens of varieties of flowers and shrubs. Summer beckons with cooling breezes on the high places and in shady glens. Nowhere in Iowa are there more brilliant splashes of color than at Waubonsie in the fall, and in the winter the bluffs and ridges are sometimes beautifully blanketed with snow. Several miles of hiking and equestrian trails are available throughout the park.
​
Hike the Sunset Ridge Nature Trail that traverses the heart of the park, offering sweeping views of the Missouri River Valley. The Ridge and Valley trails also provide ample hiking opportunities, taking visitors through quiet and shaded woodland areas. Eight miles of trails are accessible only to hikers. Another eight miles of multi-use trails wind through the northern regions of Waubonsie and are perfect for anyone in search of challenging hikes, mountain biking, horseback riding or snowmobiling opportunities. The trail to the main overlook is accessible for all ages and abilities.

​Blackburn State Park Unit of Waubonsie​

Manager: Iowa DNR
GPS:
40.857939, -95.737358
Acres: 72
Trails: 2 miles
Camping: No
Amenities: Vault toilets, gazebo, overlook
Dogs: Yes, on leash
Hunting: No
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Click for a larger version
Blackburn State Park Unit, managed by Waubonsie State Park, is a 72-acre park formed in 2019 from the donation of over 150 acres by William R. (Bill) and Sara Blackburn. The park is at the center of approximately 1,000 acres of preserved public grounds, including the Blackburn and Green Hollow Wildlife Management Areas, which are managed by the Nishnabotna Wildlife Unit of the Iowa DNR.
​The unit includes an overlook platform and reservable large picnic shelter. Given the site’s remote location, there is no public water supply, and all garbage must be removed by the visitor. A 20-acre restored prairie graces high ground where native flowers bloom, especially in late spring. Three beautiful stone benches positioned on the ridge offer grand views of the sunset over the woods. ​

Blackburn WMA & Green Hollow WMA

​Manager: Iowa DNR
Blackburn:
40.857939, -95.737358
Green Hollow: 40.849565, -95.735873
Acres: 79 (Blackburn), 624 (Green Hollow)
Trails: No official trails but hiking allowed throughout
Camping: No
Amenities: None
Dogs: Yes, on leash, however, no dogs are allowed during the nesting season from March 15 to July 15.​
Hunting: Yes
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Click for a larger version
Bring your camera, as there's been reported Sasquatch sightings at this remote and rugged wildlife area!

​Possum Hollow WMA​

Manager: Iowa DNR
Location:
Sidney, IA 51652
Acres: 173
Trails: No official trails but hiking allowed throughout
Camping: No
Amenities: None
Dogs: Yes, on leash, however, no dogs are allowed during the nesting season from March 15 to July 15.​
Hunting: Yes
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Click for a larger version
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​Riverton WMA​

Manager:
Iowa DNR
Location: Riverton, IA 51650
Acres: 4,071
Trails: No official trails but hiking allowed throughout
Camping: No
Amenities: None
Dogs: Yes, on leash, however, no dogs are allowed during the nesting season from March 15 to July 15.​
Hunting: Yes

Arguably one of the top waterfowl destinations in Iowa, the Riverton marsh covers 2,200 acres. It is popular with hunters, so where appropriate clothing if  you hike during hunting season.
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Click for a larger version
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Photo by Carter Oliver

​Eli Slusher WMA​

Manager:
Iowa DNR
Location: 2826 Bluff Rd, Hamburg 51640
Acres: 517
Trails: No official trails but hiking allowed throughout
Camping: No
Amenities: None
Dogs: Yes, on leash, however, no dogs are allowed during the nesting season from March 15 to July 15.​
Hunting: Yes

With limited access, the only way to get anywhere on this 517-acre public area is to hike. There are no maintained trails. 
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Click for a larger version
Eli Slusher has only been open to the public since 2016, but has attracted bird watchers, hikers, mushroom hunters and a growing number of archery deer hunters. Being adjacent to Waubonsie State Park and its campsites, cabins and modern shower and restroom facilities, visitors can totally immerse themselves in Iowa’s outdoors.  Timbered draws, prairie ridges, steep hills and deep valleys. Eli Slusher WMA is full of wildlife from the hardy — like deer, turkey and badgers — to the more fragile, like zebra swallowtail butterflies and, quite likely, the state endangered Great Plains skink.
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​OS Wing WMA

​Manager: Iowa DNR
Location: Hamburg, IA 51640
Acres: 138
Trails: No official trails but hiking allowed throughout
Camping: No
Amenities: None
Dogs: Yes, on leash, however, no dogs are allowed during the nesting season from March 15 to July 15.​
Hunting: Yes
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Click for a larger version
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© 2016 Kenneth West

Hiking the Byways is a regular series by Golden Hills RC&D that features publicly accessible lands open to hiking on the three scenic byways in western Iowa that Golden Hills RC&D coordinates: Glacial Trail Scenic Byway, Loess Hills National Scenic Byway, and Western Skies Scenic Byway. Each blog post covers hiking areas in one county on one of the aforementioned byways. For questions about hiking on the byways, contact Seth Brooks (seth.brooks@goldenhillsrcd.org).

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Celebrate International Museum Day at 7 Memorable Museums in Western Iowa

5/16/2023

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Every year since 1977, ICOM has organized International Museum Day, which represents a unique moment for the international museum community. On this day, participating museums plan creative events and activities related to the International Museum Day theme, engage with their public and highlight the importance of the role of museums as institutions that serve society and its development.

There are many museums in western Iowa that cover the wealth of cultural and natural history of the region. Check our list below for a sampling of the quality museums that you can visit in western Iowa.

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Sanford Museum & Planetarium

117 E Willow St, Cherokee, IA 51012

Located in Cherokee, Iowa, the Sanford Museum and Planetarium has exhibits and activities on a variety of subjects including: Archaeology, Art, Astronomy, Geology, History, Natural History, and Paleontology. 

Admission is free! The public is always welcome to join any of their events. Everything the museum does is always free and open to the public.
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Sergeant Floyd River Museum

1000 Larsen Park Rd, Sioux City, IA 51103

​​Situated next to the Missouri River, the unique dry docked riverboat is adjacent to the scenic riverfront trails and Chris Larsen Park picnic shelter and playground. The historic riverboat is now home to an Iowa Welcome Center, a local gift shop, and a river museum. Learn about Native American culture, fur trapping, the Lewis & Clark Expedition, and so much more!
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Brent S. Olson Memorial Visitor Center

206 Polk St, Pisgah, IA 51564

This nature center relates to the prairie and woods found in the Loess Hills and also serves as the headquarters for the 11,000-acre Loess Hills State Forest. Displays, diorama and murals showing the formation and landscapes of the Loess Hills. Maps of State Forest properties to explore. Art exhibits depicting the Loess Hills.

The visitor center is named in honor of Brent Olson, the former forester for the area who passed away in 2016 following a long battle with cancer.
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Museum of Danish America

2212 Washington St, Elk Horn, IA 51531

​The Museum of Danish America celebrates Danish roots and American dreams. Discover the story of Danish immigration from the mid-19th Century to the present. Learn about traditions carried on by later generations of Danish-Americans presented in programs, exhibits, and special events. Research family history at our Genealogy & Education Center. 
Celebrate the continuing relationship between Denmark and the United States. ​
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Guthrie County Historical Village & Museum

206 W South St, Panora, IA 50216

The Guthrie County Historical Village, located on a beautiful 4-acre complex on the southwest side of Panora, Iowa, near the Middle Raccoon River and old Lenon Mill Park, features ten buildings, numerous exhibits, and thousands of artifacts that explore the history of Guthrie County from 1850 to the early-20th Century.

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Historic General Dodge House

605 S 3rd St, Council Bluffs, IA 51503
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Built in 1869 for Civil War general and transcontinental railroad builder Grenville Dodge, this National Historic Landmark remains the city's architectural showpiece. The 14-room, 3-story mansion displays architectural features such as parquet floors, cheery, walnut, and bitternut woodwork, and a number of "modern" conveniences quite unusual for the time period.

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Iowa's Championship Rodeo Museum

609 Cass St, Sidney, IA 51652

The state-of-the-art facility in Sidney is packed full of Fremont County history along with fascinating memorabilia from the award-winning Sidney Iowa Championship Rodeo.
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Breweries on the Byways

5/12/2023

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If you are looking for a local craft brew to try as you explore one of western Iowa's scenic byways, you're in luck as there are several located on or near the Loess Hills National Scenic Byway, Western Skies Scenic Byway, and Glacial Trail Scenic Byway. Take a look at our list below, check out each brewery's website for their menu and tap room hours, and then make plans for a weekend trip. And, of course, drink responsibly!

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Carroll Brewing Company
226 East 5th Street, Carroll 51401


Carroll Brewing Company is a production brewery and taproom located in Carroll, with the steadfast values, humble work ethic, and genuine personality of cities like Carroll all over the Midwest.

​The Carroll Red is their most popular beer on Untappd. It's a well-balanced American red ale from the heartland with a deep amber/red hue and hints of caramely-breadiness.

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​Farmhand Brewing Company
101 Main St, Earling 51530

Farmhand Brewing Company is ocated on the corner of Main Street in Earling, just as you turn off the highway. The brewery is a big red building, can't miss it!

Their most popular beer is the Cody Red, a tribute to a friend who passed away too soon. A classic Irish Red, dark with a red hue. As of April 14, 2023, Farmhand has a different red ale on tap, the Rex Red, which is a hopped Irish red ale. The tap room is only open on Friday and Saturday.

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​Full Fledged Brewing Company
40 Arena Way Suite 2, Council Bluffs 51501

Full Fledged became Council Bluffs' first craft brewery when it opened in 2019. The tap room is open every day except Mondays. Their beers have gained the notoriety of judges in international beer competitions. 

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​Jackson Street Brewing
607 5th St, Sioux City 51101

A small, humble, mighty family-owned brewery operating since 2015. Their location in downtown Sioux City is open every day except Mondays. Jackson Street brews several varieties of their own hand-crafted seasonal ales, porters, fruit beers from their orchard harvests, and stouts.

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​Marto Brewing Company
930 4th St, Sioux City 51101

Whether you're looking for thirst-quenching craft beer or mouth watering appetizers, entrées and desserts, Marto Brewing Company has got you covered!  Their tap room is open every day. Check out our outdoor patio area. At Marto, you'll find the classics alongside new modern styles. They are into hazy IPAs, wild fermented sours, and massive barrel-aged stouts. Most beers are available in 4 pack cans

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​Brioux City Brewing
1306 Court St, Sioux City 51105

​Brioux City Brewery began when Marty's Tap owner Kelly Quinn and home brewing friend Matt Hubert decided to take their home brewing hobby to the next level, making use of a 150 square foot kitchen in local neighborhood bar and Sioux City staple Marty's Tap and cramming it with as much brewing equipment as possible.

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​Keg Creek Brewing Company
22381 221st S, Glenwood 51534

Founded in 2011, Keg Creek set up their first brewing operation in the basement of a house that backed up to Keg Creek and called themselves the Keg Creek Homebrewers. ​In 2016, they moved to a new 15-barrel location south of Glenwood that has allowed Keg Creek to increase production dramatically. Keg Creek currently distributes eight canned beer varieties in more than 100 outlets throughout the Midwest! In 2017, the Brewers Association named Keg Creek Brewing #18 among the 50 fastest-growing small and independent craft breweries in the United States.

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The Iowa Project Brewing Company
316 Grand Ave, Spencer 51301

The Iowa Project Brewing Company is a small micro-brewery and taproom located in downtown Spencer, north of the Glacial Trail Scenic Byway in Clay County.
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Wise I Brewing Company
15 2nd St NE, Le Mars, IA 51031

Recognized by the Iowa Brewer’s Guild as the 100th brewery in Iowa and Plymouth County’s first commercial micro-brewery. Wise I Brewing Company was born out of a love of delicious craft beverages and the desire to bring them to the masses.  As for the name, we were inspired by a variety of sources.  From Ida B. Wise, an Iowan directly involved with the temperance and prohibition movement in the early part of the century, to the state of Iowa and paying homage through the golden “I” in our logo, and of course our consortium of Wise followers joining us in our quest for the holy grail.

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Hiking the Glacial Trail Scenic Byway: Buena Vista County

5/10/2023

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Buena Vista County lies in the southeastern corner of the four counties that the Glacial Trail Scenic Byway crosses. Buena Vista County Conservation manages 16 areas containing over 1,145 acres of parks, refuges, historic sites and natural areas. The areas include developed park and wildlife areas where the public can enjoy camping, hiking, picnicking, boating, fishing, hunting, trapping, bird watching, and other outdoors activities. The Nature Conservancy also manages several tracts of land in the county, although Brown's Prairie is the only one open to the public. Continue reading about hiking opportunities in Buena Vista County and start planning a day hike to this quiet, tranquil country of rolling prairie.
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Buena Vista County Conservation Park

Manager: Buena Vista Conservation
Location:
377 440th Street, Petersen
Trails: Yes
Camping: Yes
Amenities: Toilets, showers, picnic shelters, playground, shelter houses, arboretum
Dogs: Yes
Hunting: Bow hunting only during deer bow season
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Click to download the PDF map
This park is just off the Glacial Trails Scenic Byway on 400th Street, 2 miles east of M-27 in the beautiful Little Sioux River Valley of northwest Buena Vista County. Buena Vista Park offers multiple camping areas, cabin and lodge overnight rental facilities, day-use shelter, arboretum, prairie grass plantings, and miles of trails through woodland areas for visitors to explore.
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Sturchler Pit Area

​Manager: Buena Vista Conservation
Location: 620th Street, Newell
Trails: Yes
Camping: No
Amenities: Pit toilet, swimming beach, playground, picnic shelters
Dogs: Yes
Hunting: No.
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No map is available
​The former 120 acre gravel pit area has been developed and contains picnic shelters, pit toilet, and playground equipment. Several plots of prairie grass have been established. The lake provides excellent deep pond fishing.  No firearms or bows and arrows are allowed but deer and pheasants can be driven. ​There is a trail for hiking available around the pit
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Brown's Prairie

​Manager: The Nature Conservancy
Location: Peterson, IA 51047
Trails: No official trails
Camping: No
Amenities: abc
Dogs: No
Hunting: No

​In the Glacial Hills area, north of Storm Lake and southwest of Spencer near the Little Sioux River Valley, Browns’ Prairie is an important tract in one of the largest areas of native grassland left in the state. 
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Located within more then 3,000 contiguous acres of prairie in the Little Sioux Valley region, the property provides habitat for wildflowers, butterflies and grassland nesting birds. This particular tract of land was historically pastured, but much of the native grass has survived. A special feature of the tract is a small, crystal-clear, spring-fed steam that meanders through it.

Browns' Prairie is level to steeply rolling. Care should be exercised by the elderly and children. This area is extremely hot in the summer and cold in the winter without trees to break the wind or sun. Cattle grazing is used to manage native grasses so please exercise caution when visiting the area.


WHAT TO SEE: PLANTS
Grasses on this prairie include: little bluestem grass, porcupine grass and side-oats gramma. Flowers include: pale purple coneflower, prairie violets, pasque flower and grey headed coneflower.

WHAT TO SEE: ANIMALS
Birds on the Browns' Prairie include: bobolinks, grasshopper sparrows, meadowlarks, and kingfishers often fishing in the prairie streams during the summer.
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Photo by The Nature Conservancy

Buena Vista Conservation allows off-trail hiking at all of their properties, including wildlife areas. Below is a list with addresses.

Brooke Wildlife Area
Buena Vista 440th Street, Linn Grove IA 51033

Elk Wildlife Area
60th Avenue, Alta IA 51002

Gabrielson Park
1322 440th Street, Sioux Rapids IA 50585

Gaherty Wildlife Area
580th Street, Storm Lake IA 50588

Gary Christiansen Wildlife Area
30th Avenue, Linn Grove IA 51003

Hankens Wildlife Area
10th Avenue, Alta IA 51002

Pheasant Ridge Wildlife Area
660th Street, Newell IA 50568

Starr-Robbins Wildlife Refuge
Evans Street, Linn Grove IA 51033

Three Waters Wildlife Area
600th Street, Newell IA 50568


Hiking the Byways is a regular series by Golden Hills RC&D that features publicly accessible lands open to hiking on the three scenic byways in western Iowa that Golden Hills RC&D coordinates: Glacial Trail Scenic Byway, Loess Hills National Scenic Byway, and Western Skies Scenic Byway. Each blog post covers hiking areas in one county on one of the aforementioned byways. For questions about hiking on the byways, contact Seth Brooks (seth.brooks@goldenhillsrcd.org).

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Birding the Byways

5/4/2023

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Barred owl at Riverton WMA (photo by Carter Oliver)
May is a big birding month in Iowa. It kicks off with National Bird Day on May 4th, then is followed by the Iowa Ornithologists' Union 100th Anniversary celebration from May 5th to 7th. World Migratory Bird Day on May 13th coincides with the predicted peak migration, which has been forecasted to occur between May 9th and 14th.

We have compiled a list of birding resources to help you explore the wonderful birding opportunities in western Iowa. Read about them below.

Birding Organizations

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Ornithologist is a big word, but the philosophy of the Iowa Ornithologists' Union is by no means elitist. According to the IOU, if you enjoy the wild birds of Iowa then you are an ornithologist! No degrees, no training, no experience required.
The Iowa Ornithologists' Union spring meeting will kick off their celebration of 100 years of birding as an organization. The venue for the weekend is the beautiful Stine Barn and grounds in West Des Moines. Join them for exceptional programs, great birding, and fellowship with like-minded individuals. The keynote speaker is Ted Floyd, of the American Birding Association, who will examine how much birding has changed over the course of one hundred years. Activities are planned for newer birders, families, photographers, and seasoned veterans alike!
If you cannot make the celebration, check out the IOU website. They have a wealth of information to learn about birds and find birds in Iowa, including an Iowa bird list with 433 species, an Iowa breeding bird atlas, birding by county, Iowa hot spots, and more! The  Ann Barker Library  includes issues of Iowa Bird Life dating back to 1931.
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American goldfinch at Loess Hills State Forest Little Sioux Unit (photo by Carter Oliver)
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The mission of Iowa Audubon is to identify, protect and restore Iowa's bird habitats, to educate Iowa's citizens toward a greater level of conservation awareness, and to promote enjoyment and greater pride in Iowa's natural ecosystems, birds, other wildlife.
​Iowa Audubon is an organization of people, corporations and other organizations, including National Audubon Society chapters, all interested in improving bird habitat in Iowa. They are a grass-roots organization that maximizes the use of our collective resources to have the largest impact on habitat issues. Iowa Audubon is a non-profit member organization, with a mission to protect, restore and enjoy Iowa’s natural ecosystems with a focus on birds, other wildlife, and their habitats. Our focus on bird conservation fills a unique niche in Iowa. There is a great opportunity to conserve and improve the habitats most essential to birds across the state.

Iowa Audubon offers small grants for bird conservation research and projects. They also partner with other organizations to manager and monitor Important Bird Areas. If you would like to support Iowa Audubon, consider becoming a member; they have several membership options.
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Loess Hills Audubon Society is one of eleven chapters of Iowa Audubon. LHAS exists to educate individuals and the general public, to enjoy and promote birding, to support ornithology, and to be an advocate for wild areas and environmental issues. They meet at the Dorothy Pecaut Nature Center in Sioux City on the first Thursday of the month during the months of September through May at 7:00 PM.
Loess Hills Audubon Society has a dedicated group of members that offer programming and bird outings in the greater Siouxland area. They are currently seeking Bird Friendly designation for Sioux City. Golden Hills RC&D is partnering with LHAS to revise their Siouxland Bird Guide that was originally published in 2003.

Check their Conservation Notes blog for bird-related news. Also, take a look at their calendar for a birding event in the Siouxland area. LHAS organizes annual Christmas Bird Counts, among other birding excursions.
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Bald eagle at Deer Island WMA (photo by Carter Oliver)
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Founded in 2011 to encourage young Iowans ages 8-18 to study and enjoy birds and birding, Iowa Young Birders has offered nearly 60 field trips all around Iowa.  More than 600 participants have included over 300 young birders, 200 parents and 100 volunteer trip leaders.
Join IAYB at Springbrook State Park on May 20th at 9 AM as they search for the last migrants of spring and pause to appreciate the local breeding birds as they sing and establish territories. May 20th often marks the peak of warbler diversity in Iowa as amazing species such as Connecticut Warbler, Mourning Warbler, and Canada Warbler fill the woods with their beautiful songs. IAYB will search for these fleeting species and learn about the breeding strategies of different birds. This event is free but advanced registration is required. This outing is open to young birders and their parents/guardians/caretakers. No previous knowledge or experience is necessary.
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Bird Friendly Iowa is a statewide bird habitat conservation and educational outreach program created by a partnership of Iowa conservation organizations. The program instills pride in Iowa's communities for maintaining healthy ecosystems for ourselves and our birds. Cities and counties can acquire Bird Friendly designation after meeting several criteria that support bird conservation. Audubon and Clay have been designated as Bird Friendly counties in western Iowa. A REAP grant for 2022 has allowed the organization to contract with a part-time coordinator to help support its growth.
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Red-bellied woodpecker at Schaben Park (photo by Carter Oliver)

Birding the Byways

From the Missouri River to the Raccoon River, Western Skies Scenic Byway traverses four of Iowa's landforms and many unique habitat types. If you're looking for waterfowl, upland birds, woodland birds, Western Skies Birding Trail has you covered. 

​Check out the Western Skies Birding Trail website to learn where you can go birding in the Western Skies corridor (Audubon, Guthrie, Harrison & Shelby counties) and what species you might find. 
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The Broken Kettle Grasslands Bird Conservation Area is located in the northern Loess Hills. Its 24,500 acres contain the largest remaining contiguous prairie tracts in Iowa. Much of the land is managed by The Nature Conservancy and  provides prime habitat for grassland bird species as the bobolink, grasshopper sparrow, western kingbird, and upland sandpiper. This unique region plays host to Iowa’s only population of  Black-billed    Magpies. Recent research has indicated that these birds had a historical association with bison, a captive population of which now roams the Broken Kettle Grasslands.
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The Loess Hills Bird Conservation Area is located in the most unique landform of Iowa. The Loess Hills were created by windblown loess from the Missouri River bottomland and piled 200-300 feet deep. Once near-totally covered by prairie, today the Loess Hills’ land cover is a mixture of native prairie, bur oak savanna, and woodlands. This BCA contains 94,048 acres in Monona and Harrison counties, of which nearly 19,000 acres are protected by conservation easements or publicly owned.
Bird diversity here is exceptional, with 249 species identified, including 80 Iowa Species of Greatest Conservation Need. Currently, 111 species are known to nest in this BCA’s prairies, savannas, woodlands, and wetlands. This same crucial habitat supplies important bird wintering grounds and migratory stopover sites. Special birds of this area include wood thrush, Bell’s vireo,  whip-poor-will,  redheaded woodpecker,  grasshopper and field sparrows, Blue-winged warbler, and both meadowlark species. The BCA’s western Iowa location makes it a good place to see western bird species that are less often seen elsewhere, like  western kingbird, Townsend’s solitaire, and perhaps Lazuli bunting.  
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Click to download the PDF brochure
The Lower Loess Hills Bird Conservation Area was never dedicated and so is not officially recognized. However, the Iowa DNR does have a brochure about the bird conservation area, although much of the information is identical to the aforementioned Loess Hills Bird Conservation Area. The Lower Loess Hills BCA covers Fremont and Mills counties in southwest Iowa.
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Snowy owl near Harlan (photo by Carter Oliver)
There are numerous parks and nature centers in western Iowa that are excellent birding sites. State parks managed by the Iowa DNR, parks managed by county conservation boards, and other publicly accessible lands in western Iowa all offer birding opportunities. Check the park's respective website for organized birding events and tips.

DeSoto National Wildlife Refuge offers great birding year round. The visitor center viewing windows provide great birding of waterfowl and bald eagles during the spring, fall and winter season. Bird feeders are stocked daily at the visitor center and provide good “backyard” birding opportunities.


Hitchcock Nature Center is home to HawkWatch, a citizen science driven research project that monitors raptor migration from September 1st to December 13th, counting an average of 13,000 migrating raptors annually. Anyone can join the Hitchcock HawkWatch volunteer team. All you need is a love of birds and a willingness to learn. On-the-job training is provided by the experienced team of HawkWatch volunteers and park staff. To become a Hitchcock HawkWatch volunteer, please complete and submit a volunteer application on the HawkWatch website. 

The Chris L. Lloyd Swan Restoration Refuge in Buena Vista County is a 10-acre area to promote the restoration of trumpeter swans. A kiosk with information and an observation deck help inform the public about the swans. A five acre lake is surrounded by prairie grasses. The swan refuge is located 10 miles south of Sioux Rapids on Highway 71.


Other notable birding sites include, but are not limited to, Sawmill Hollow Wildlife Area in Harrison County, Riverton Wildlife Management Area in Fremont County,and Prairie Heritage Center in O'Brien County.

Birding Resources

Besides the aforementioned organizations, the following resources are helpful to both novice and experienced birders.
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eBird is among the world’s largest biodiversity-related science projects, with more than 100 million bird sightings contributed annually by eBirders around the world. Discover bird hot spots, track your own bird lists, share sightings, and more.
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The BirdNET research project uses artificial intelligence and neural networks to train computers to identify nearly 3,000 of the most common species of North America and Europe. You can record a file using the internal microphone of your device and see if BirdNET correctly identifies the probable bird species present in your recording.  BirdNET is a citizen science platform as well as an analysis software for extremely large collections of audio. BirdNET aims to provide innovative tools for conservationists, biologists, and birders alike.
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Merlin features community contributed photos, songs, and calls, tips from experts around the world to help you ID the birds you see, and range maps from Birds of the World—all powered by billions of bird observations submitted to eBird.
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The Audubon Bird Guide is a free and complete field guide to over 800 species of North American birds, right in your pocket. Built for all experience levels, it will help you identify the birds around you, keep track of the birds you’ve seen, and get outside to find new birds near you. With over 2 million downloads to date, it is one of the best and most trusted field guides for North American birds.
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Yellow-headed blackbird at Missouri Bottoms Wetland Area (photo by Carter Oliver)

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Hiking the Loess Hills National Scenic Byway: Mills County

5/3/2023

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West Oak Forest (photo by Lance Brisbois)
Mills County is located amongst the Loess Hills and rivers of southwest Iowa. The county is rich in cultural history. Many cultures have resided in the Loess Hills of Mills County. Among these cultures was a prehistoric people whose earth-lodge sites have been documented throughout the Loess Hills. There are roughly 284 known earth lodge sites in Iowa, and the majority (239) of these sites occur around the Glenwood area, hence them being called the "Glenwood Culture". Hike at Glenwood Archaeological State Preserve​ to learn about these cultures or head to Folsom Point Preserve for a hike through a remnant prairie with views of the Omaha skyline. There are several other great hiking areas just a short drive from the Omaha/Council Bluffs metro.
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​Folsom Point Preserve

Manager: The Nature Conservancy
GPS: 
41.15500, -95.80338
Trails: No official trails but hiking allowed
Camping: No
Amenities: None
Dogs: No
Hunting: No
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Click for Folsom Point Preserve on All Trails
​Folsom Point Preserve protects one of the largest remaining contiguous prairie remnants in the southern Loess Hills. Purchased in 1999, the prairie provides a valuable habitat for grassland animals, particularly in an area where the prairie community has largely disappeared. The terrain is quite rugged with steep slopes. The preserve is used for research by local students; visitors should avoid flags and other markers.

There are no official trails at the preserve but there are several well-traveled footpaths that lead up to and along the ridges, allowing sweeping views of the Missouri River floodplain and the Loess Hills. The nearby factories, however, degrade the view from the ridges. A hike at Folsom Point is still enjoyable, as it is much less frequented than Hitchcock Nature Center yet about the same driving distance from the Omaha/Council Bluffs metro.
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Folsom Point Preserve (photo by Seth Brooks)

Green Hill Wildlife Area

​Manager: Iowa DNR
GPS: 
41.152340, -95.786740
Acres: 516
Trails: No official trails but hiking allowed
Camping: No
Amenities: None
Dogs: Yes
Hunting: Yes

Green Hill Wildlife Area is one of Iowa's newest public wildlife areas. The property is located east across the road from Folsom Point Preserve. Iowa DNR is restoring the property to prairie.
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Photo by Lance Brisbois

West Oak Forest

​Manager: Mills County Conservation
GPS: 
41.075377, -95.811997
Acres: 308
Trails: 3 miles of hiking trails
Camping: No
Amenities: None
Dogs: Yes
Hunting: No

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West Oak Forest is located in west central Mills County. The 308-acre area of Loess Hills bluffland is adjacent to and overlooking the broad Missouri River floodplain.
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Click for West Oak Forest on All Trails
This is the second largest park within the Mills County Conservation Board’s park system. It consists of forest, numerous hilltop prairie remnants, 7-acres of restored prairie, and well over 3 miles of hiking trails.

Being nestled in the west side of Iowa’s beautiful Loess Hills, the park provides a spectacular view overlooking the Missouri River floodplain. West Oak Forest is inhabited by many threatened and endangered species of the Loess Hills,  including the Yucca Moth, Western Spadefoot Toad, Ottoe Skipper, Northern Grasshopper Mouse, and various others.. The topography of the property is very steep with corrugated hills and the highest point being 1,100 feet above sea level. Heavily forested with upland hardwoods including bur oak, red oak, ironwood, basswood, scattered black walnut and shagbark hickory.
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Photo by Lance Brisbois

Pony Creek Park​

Manager: Mills County Conservation
GPS: 
41.070669, -95.788706
​Acres: 83
Trails: Yes (trail map posted at kiosk)
Camping: Yes
Amenities: Nature center, restrooms
Dogs: Yes
Hunting: No

​Pony Creek Park 
is the Mills County Conservation headquarters. There are hiking trails within the park as well as a scenic overlook platform. The park also has 1.5 acres of restored prairie as well as 4-acres of native prairie. ​An 82-acre lake is located directly across from the entrance of the park that allows fishing, canoeing, and kayaking. During fall, a wonderful image is painted upon the canvas of treetops across the lake from the park. ​
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Pony Creek is located along the Loess Hills Scenic Byway. Pony Creek Park is a National Historic Landmark. The Davis Oriole earth lodge site is located here. To protect the archaeological integrity of the site, it is not specifically marked. 
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Pony Creek Nature Center

Mile Hill Lake

​Manager: Mills County Conservation
GPS: 41.047265, -95.782418
​Acres: 39
Trails: Yes
Camping: No
Amenities: Boat dock and ramp
Dogs: Yes
Hunting: Yes
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No map is available of Mile Hill Lake
Mile Hill Lake consists of a hardwood forest, which is open to public hunting, and a 10-acre fishing lake with boat dock and ramp. ​When driving into the park you will find an interpretive panel discussing the prehistoric culture that lived in this region, and the handicap accessible Scenic Overlook, which offers an interpretive panel discussing the Loess Hills Scenic Byway. You will also see a2 acre restored prairie, and several flowerbeds which are maintained by the Mills County Co-Horts. There are various hiking trails within the park, including the most recent addition that leads through a marsh area, with a newly installed footbridge.
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Showy orchis at Mile Hill Lake

Glenwood Archaeological
​State Preserve


​Manager: Mills County Conservation
GPS: 41.028771, -95.744359
​Acres: 906
Trails: 3 miles of paved and mowed trails
Camping: No
Amenities: None
Dogs: Yes
Hunting: No

Glenwood Archaeological State Preserve is Iowa’s 96th dedicated preserve.
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Click for All Trails information
The preserve is a low impact recreation area, meaning that no public activity can impair the integrity of the site. The site hosts multi-use trails ready for running, hiking, biking and wildlife observation. Aside from the archaeological sites within the property, one can also find forest, oak savanna, native prairie, restored prairie and agricultural grounds on the site.

There are 107 recorded archaeological sites in the Glenwood Archaeological State Preserve, ranging from about 10,000 years in age to the early Euro-American settlement era, 150 years ago. Most significant are 27 earth lodge sites in the preserve that are related to the Glenwood Culture, also known as the Nebraska phase of the Central Plains tradition. Only a small fraction of the preserve has been archaeologically surveyed, so many more sites probably exist in the preserve.
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Photo by Lance Brisbois

​Hiking the Byways is a regular series by Golden Hills RC&D that features publicly accessible lands open to hiking on the three scenic byways in western Iowa that Golden Hills RC&D coordinates: Glacial Trail Scenic Byway, Loess Hills National Scenic Byway, and Western Skies Scenic Byway. Each blog post covers hiking areas in one county on one of the aforementioned byways. For questions about hiking on the byways, contact Seth Brooks (seth.brooks@goldenhillsrcd.org).
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Hiking the Western Skies Scenic Byway: Audubon County

4/12/2023

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Trail at Littlefield Recreation Area
The hiking opportunities in Audubon County allow you to enjoy a quiet, contemplative hike in Iowa's third-least populated county. Littlefield Recreation has three miles of trails through woodlands and prairie. T-Bone Trail is a paved 21-mile linear trail used by bikers, runners, and walkers. Nathanial Hamlin Park also has hiking trails, as well as a viewing deck to observe the elk that live at the park. If you are looking for a leisurely walk after eating Iowa's original #1 pork tenderloin at Darrell's Place in Hamlin, walk the John James Audubon Birdwalk in Audubon. Keep reading our newest installment in the Hiking the Byways series.
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Littlefield Recreation Area

​Manager: Audubon CCB
Location: 
41.558068, -94.777342
Trails: 3 miles
Camping: Yes
Amenities: Water, restrooms, shelters
Dog-friendly: Yes, on leash
Hunting: 
About 100 acres are provided for public hunting. These areas are clearly marked.
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Littlefield Recreation Area is Audubon County Conservation Board's largest and most popular park.  It began in 1965 with 40 acres of timber and 20 acres that were developed into a recreational area.  In 1975 and 1976 the park's sized increase by 385 acres due to the Troublesome Creek Watershed Project.  Two dams were built along Troublesome Creek forming the lake that is used for recreational purposes and flood control. 

There are roughly 3 miles of maintained hiking trails. The park road is also a great spot to walk or ride a bike. The timber area provides an excellent area to view and photograph wildlife & wildflowers. These trails are available for use as cross country ski trails in the winter.

​Littlefield Park is located six miles east of Exira on County Road F58, just a few miles north of Interstate 80.  It is approximately an hour from Des Moines and an hour and a half from Omaha, Nebraska.
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T-Bone Trail

Manager: Audubon & Cass CCBs
Location: Trailheads in Audubon, Brayton, Exira, and Hamlin

Trails: 21-mile point-to-point
Camping: No, but camping is available near the trail
Amenities: None on the trail
Dog-friendly: Yes, on leash
Hunting: No

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The T-Bone Recreation Trail runs from the city of Audubon into Cass County.  The trail totals 21 miles.  Sixteen of these miles are located in Audubon County.  The trail begins in Audubon and goes south through Hamlin, Exira, Brayton, and into Cass County.  Eventually, the trail will go into Atlantic, Iowa.
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Click to downland the trail brochure
The trail is hard surface making it great for biking, walking, running, and rollerblading.  Most of the trail is asphalt with a few miles in the middle made out of concrete.  The T-Bone Trail is a former railroad right of way; purchased with the help of the Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation.  It is named for the T-Bone event that originated in the 1950s in Audubon when the farmers all loaded up their cattle on to a train and rode with them to market in Chicago.
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T-Bone Trail

Nathanial Hamlin Park

​Manager: Audubon CCB
Location: Highway 71, Audubon, IA 50025
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Trails: Yes
Camping: No
Amenities: Restrooms
Dog-friendly: Check with the park
Hunting: No


Picnic areas, hiking trails, south of Audubon on Highway 71, across from the T-Bone Trail.
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Audubon's old old county home was built in 1890 for indigent persons of the county. In the 1970s the ACHS acquired the house (and other buildings) to create a museum. The facility is collectively called Nathaniel Hamlin Park.

Early members of the historical society created a wonderful museum that tells the story of settlement of the area from 1850 to the present.
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The 2-story brick home has its original floor plan and 1800 sq.ft. of display space including:  large kitchen & pantry, Victorian parlor, and bedrooms. Other room displays: quilt & sewing, military, children's play room, schools, churches, collections (beauty shop), hats & clothing, and the "Audubon" Room -- a collection of birds and animals.The park includes: one room schoolhouse, barns and antique farm machinery. That's not all -- the 10-acre park has live elk & windmill displays, and many picnic tables. Come and spend the day!
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(photo by Nathanial Hamlin Park & Museum)

Hiking the Byways is a regular series by Golden Hills RC&D that features publicly accessible lands open to hiking on the three scenic byways in western Iowa that Golden Hills RC&D coordinates: Glacial Trail Scenic Byway, Loess Hills National Scenic Byway, and Western Skies Scenic Byway. Each blog post covers hiking areas in one county on one of the aforementioned byways. For questions about hiking on the byways, contact Seth Brooks (seth.brooks@goldenhillsrcd.org).
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