The One Place In Iowa That Looks Like Something From Middle Earth

There are so many beautiful places in Iowa, but most of the state’s landscape doesn’t bring to mind the lush fantasy world of Tolkien’s Middle Earth in Lord of the Rings. However, you’d be surprised that there is a state park right here in Iowa that might fool you into thinking you’ll run into a Hobbit around every corner. Maquoketa Caves State Park will definitely make you think you fell asleep and woke up in Middle Earth.

Flickr/Tom Gill

Flickr/Michael Kappel

Maquoketa Caves State Park is a lush, green, 323-acre park in Jackson County, with majestic trees, winding paths and epic subterranean caves that could literally be used as the set for a scene in Lord of the Rings.

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Flickr/Michael Kappel

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Flickr/Michael Kappel

The steep, winding staircases into the subterranean caverns will lead you into another world. Dancehall cave is the biggest of all the caves. It’s 1100 feet, and it comes equipped with walkways and lighting.

Flickr/Michael Kappel

Flickr/Michael Kappel

The park contains more limestone caves than any other state park in Iowa, including the Dancehall Cave, Hernado's Hideaway, Shinbone Cave, Wye Cave, and an unmarked cave within Dancehall Cave that is locally known as Steelgate Cave.

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Flickr/Michael Kappel

Flickr/Michael Kappel

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There’s a winding trail system throughout the park, linking the caves. There are also impressive formations and scenic overlooks that will take your breath away. If you look closely, you might even see Mordor in the distance.

Flickr/Michael Kappel

The lush forest is literally draped with greenery, and the tall, majestic trees will leave you in awe. The towering cliffs, rock formations and waterfall give the park an otherworldly feel.

Flickr/Tom Gill

Iowa’s Middle Earth wouldn’t be complete without an epic rock formation. The "Natural Bridge" is a sweeping, dramatic natural bridge that stands nearly 50 feet above Raccoon Creek.

Flickr/Michael Kappel

Flickr/Michael Kappel

Your day of adventure at Maquoketa State Park has it all, with forests, streams, caverns and giant rock formations, all coming together to make you feel like you’ve stepped into the magical world of Tolkien’s imagination, Middle Earth.

The park is located at 10970 98th St., Maquoketa, IA. Cave explorers should be aware of some of the park’s regulations. They can be found here.

Have you been to this magical state park? Did you run into any Hobbits or wizards? For more of Iowa’s spectacular natural beauty, Here Are The 10 Most Incredible Natural Wonders In Iowa.