Iowa is full of beautiful natural wonders, and many of them are famous throughout the state. After all, I bet you’ve seen the top of Pikes Peak, strolled Backbone State Park, and sailed Lake Okoboji at some point in your life. Part of the fun that comes from living in such a big state, though, is discovering hidden gems and secrets that only locals know. The beautiful, cascading falls of Dunnings Spring Park is one wonder that’s hiding right in an Iowa forest.

Dunnings Spring Park is located in Decorah, at 203 Quarry St (off of Ice Cave Road).
Foursquare / Erik R.
One of Iowa's best hidden gems is right across a stone bridge from the parking lot - you'll hardly walk at all before you see it in the distnace.
Google Local / April Renae Rowe Neal
Dunnings Spring feeds into the Iowa River via a 200' waterfall that is one of the most impressive in the state!
TripAdvisor / Ima P.
This enormous fall is often overlooked, but its proximity to downtown Decorah and the famous Ice Cave makes it a must-see.
Google Local / Manij Shresetha

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Pack a picnic lunch and relax in the shade of the forest with your friends and family. as this impressive fall roars in front of you.
TripAdvisor / JohnBI35
You can hike all around this massive waterfall, but be careful! Stick to marked trails for your safety.
Google Local / Adam Boggs
One boardwalk trail takes you way up to an overlook to provide a panoramic view.
Google Local / Owen Schidel
Hopefully you're not afraid of heights! The view of the falls here is fantastic.
TripAdvisor / BrendaH3
And look up - you can see Decorah from the top!
Flickr / Ellen Macdonald
Dunnings Spring Park is truly one of Iowa's hidden gems, and many people will drive past it dozens of times before even realizing it is there.

Take the time to explore Decorah’s famous ice cave, too, which is right next to Dunnings Spring Park. This geologic wonder is icy and cold for most of the year! That makes it the perfect place to cool off after hiking Dunnings Spring Park in the summer.

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