There’s hardly an Iowa adventurer out there who doesn’t know about the Mines of Spain State Recreation Area. One of the most historic sites in Iowa, it’s also home to a museum and fascinating artifacts from the early days of the Hawkeye State. It’s also the place you can find a hidden hiking trail in Iowa that offers a stunning look at unspoiled nature combined with some beautiful ruins of days gone by. The Eagle Scout Trail is a six-mile out-and-back trail ideal for moderately experienced hikers, and it’s the perfect adventure for a full day of hiking when you want to explore a corner of the state seen by only the most in-the-know hikers.

The Mines of Spain State Recreation Area is a sprawling complex home to attractions and trails that you'll want to take at least a full day to explore.
Andy Czyz/AllTrails
One of those trails is the Eagle Scout Trail, a six-mile jaunt through mostly unspoiled Iowa wilderness with some beautiful views of the local foliage.
Matt Yodis/AllTrails
Most of the hike is on flat terrain, with some great close-up looks of local plants - and maybe an animal or two.
Emma Clark/AllTrails
You'll even find a viewing platform to get the best look at the landscape and some amazing photos.
Frank Ruiz/AllTrails

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Keep an eye out for some of the quirky signs placed around the trail as you head into less well-trod grounds.
Frank Ruiz/AllTrails
As you explore the woodsier areas of the trail, you might come across some long-abandoned houses from Iowa's past.
Nehemiah White/AllTrails
Most of the trail is easy to hike for all skill levels, but you should bring good hiking boots for some unconventional terrain.
Nena S/AllTrails
You might even find a structure or two that looks like something out of Middle Earth.
Nena S/AllTrails
As the sun goes down, the Eagle Scout Trail takes on a very different look - the perfect capper to a day of exploring the Mines of Spain.
Nehemiah White/AllTrails

Have you explored the Eagle Scout Trail in the Mines of Spain State Recreation Area? Let us know what you thought of this hidden hiking trail in Iowa and the area’s other popular attractions in the comments section. If you’re planning a visit, make sure to check the state website for more information about the area’s offerings for a day trip. If you’re looking for another adventure into the unknown, why not pay a visit to the largest state forest in Iowa?

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Mines of Spain Road, Mines of Spain Rd, Dubuque, IA 52003, USA