Iowa's Driftless Area Is The Quiet Oasis You'll Want To Discover This Year
By Kim Magaraci|Published February 08, 2020
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Kim Magaraci
Author
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
Iowa’s Driftless Area is one of the most unique geographic wonders in America. The steep cliffs and bluffs, dense forests, valleys, and karst topography is a result of the region surviving the glaciation of the last ice age. You’ll find plants and wildlife here that resembles the Great Lakes and New England, rather than the Plains, and the geographic history is unique to this area of Minnesota, Iowa, and Wisconsin. Make plans to see for yourself!
Iowa's Driftless Area is a place with rollings hills, stunning overlooks, and some of the most charming towns you'll find west of the Mississippi River.
All along Iowa's northeastern border, hills, bluffs, and farmland give way to breathtaking views of the river. Visit Pikes Peak State Park in McGregor for some of the best views in Iowa.
Yellow River State Forest is home to some of the best hiking in the Midwest, so load up your daypack with trail mix and head out to see for yourself. Make time to visit Effigy National Monument while you're here.
There's more to the Driftless Area than state parks and forests. While the region is a hikers paradise, photographers and history buffs love driving by the rolling farm fields and old barns.
The town of Lansing is a great place to visit for that old-time small town feel. Stop in to the General Store and you'll feel like you've stepped back in time.
The Black Hawk Bridge in Lansing opened in 1931 and has been a landmark Mississippi River crossing since. It's at risk of becoming obsolete within the next few years, so be sure to visit now while you have the chance.
Decorah is one of the most popular small towns of the Driftless Area. This relaxed town celebrates its Norwegian heritage with a fantastic museum, the Vesterheim.
If you've ever wanted to try fly fishing, Iowa's Driftless Area will become your paradise. Learn to tie flies, cast, and catch along the many trout streams.
One great way to explore the Driftless Area is to embark on a road trip! Check out the Driftless Area Scenic Byway and hit the road for a beautiful and memorable adventure.
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