Take An Easy Hike Through Iowa's Yellow River State Forest For A Gorgeous Autumn Scene
By Kim Magaraci|Published October 04, 2020
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Kim Magaraci
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Kim Magaraci graduated Rutgers University with a degree in Geography and has spent the last seven years as a freelance travel writer. Contact: kmagaraci@onlyinyourstate.com
Every year, when the cooler weather comes in and the last bits of summer fade away, the hills, bluffs, cliffs, and forests of Iowa begin to brighten up with the gorgeous colors of autumn. To see some of the most impressive fall foliage in Iowa, head to Yellow River State Forest for a camping trip or a day hike.
Iowa's Yellow River State Forest is tucked up in the Driftless region, way up in the northeastern part of the Hawkeye State. There are six units within the forest, and it covers more than 8,500 acres of preserved land.
You'll find miles and miles of trails here, and every step is worth exploring. The Paint Creek Unit alone has more than two dozen miles of maintained trail!
Many of the trails are perfect for a day hike, and others make for good backpacking trips. There are hike-in campgrounds where you can spend a peaceful night in the wilderness.
When autumn rolls around, hikers flock to the forest to see some of the most beautiful fall foliage in Iowa. The views of the river valley are remarkable.
Whether you're planning a day trip for a scenic hike or a longer backpacking or camping excursion, you're in for one-of-a-kind views and memories that will never fade if your destination is Yellow River State Forest.
You can find trail maps and more information about the forest’s most popular trails on AllTrails, right here. For campground information and general park hours, rules, and regulations, visit the Iowa DNR site, here.