The Hawkeye State has so many state parks that are worth exploring, but only a few are known around the world as pinnacles of park design. One of those is Ledges State Park in Iowa, located in the small town of Madrid, which is built on a unique geographical feature. The stunning geography of the park was carved by a sandstone gorge millions of years ago, and the result is one of the most beautiful parks in the entire Hawkeye State. You’ll walk across rustic stone bridges, marvel at massive sandstone cliffs, and explore gorgeous trails that transform with the seasons. So why is this the perfect time to pay a return visit to Ledges State Park? The park is about to celebrate its 100th anniversary on December 21, 2024, and one of Iowa’s first state parks is ready for its moment in the sun.

Ledges State Park is an Iowa institution and one of the first state parks in the state to cross the big century mark.
Becky Acheson/Google Local
The famous sandstone cliffs are its signature feature, and 2024 is a great opportunity to see them for yourself.
Holly Beermann/Google Local
The cliffs and unique stone bridge will be key features when the park celebrates its anniversary on December 21, 2024.
Ledges State Park/Google Local

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The event will include exhibits on the history of the park, and all the park's regular trails will be open.
Eric Severson/Google Local
The park is uniquely beautiful at night, so visitors will definitely want to stick around for the night sky.
Iowa DNR
The anniversary will take place in winter, but the park is anything but shut down - it's so peaceful when covered with a blanket of snow.
David Kloss/Google Local

Have you visited Ledges State Park in Iowa? Tell us all about your visit in the comments section, and take a look at the official Iowa DNR press release for all the details on the upcoming anniversary. While you’re in the Boone/Madrid area, make sure to check out the world-famous recreational railroad. If you’re planning to hike the trails at Ledges, this is the perfect time to subscribe to AllTrails + – the app will make it easy to stay connected with guides and downloadable trail maps.

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Ledges State Park, 1515 P Ave, Madrid, IA 50156, USA