You might think you’ve explored all of Iowa’s natural wonders, but the Hawkeye State always finds ways to surprise. Many of Iowa’s smaller state and county parks contain amazing secrets, and one of those can be found in Iowa’s southeastern region. Starr’s Cave Nature Center is a small park and preserve, and it features an amazing cave hike in Burlington, Iowa. This 3.3-mile out-and-back trail not only takes you to one of the state’s best-hidden caves, but it is surrounded by stunning geological formations that have been here for millions of years. Considered an easy route, it shouldn’t take much more than an hour to complete – but getting a look at these rock formations and the cave at their center will leave memories for a lifetime.

Starr's Cave Nature Center is one of Iowa's greatest hidden gems - and not just because of the cave.
Tyler Owen/Google Local
The park contains a 3.3-mile out-and-back trail which is easily navigated, thanks to boardwalks and flat terrain.
Evan Johannson/Google Local
But the terrain you'll pass by is anything but ordinary. This is some of the most interesting terrain in all of Iowa - and it can be found nowhere else in the world.
Chai R/AllTrails
The bluffs are made of dolomite and limestone, and were formed during the earliest days of life on Earth.
Ben Emery/AllTrails

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That means you'll potentially see remnants of some of Earth's earliest inhabitants, including ancient gastropods and cup coral.
Nicole Love/Google Local
Along the way, you'll see many small crevices in the rocks - but there's one cave that attracts more attention than any other.
Megan Fletcher/Google Local
The main Starr's Cave is closed indefinitely to protect the bat population, but the area is still worth a visit to read up on the interesting past of the site and peer inside.
Starr's Cave Nature Center/Google Local
This is a dog-friendly park, as well - as long as your furry best friend is safely leashed!
ExploreSophiasWorld/Google Local

Have you visited Starr’s Cave Nature Center? Let us know what you thought of this cave hike in Burlington, Iowa, as well as anything else you saw at the park, in the comments section! You can find out more about this unique park by visiting the Des Moines County website. While you’re in Burlington, make sure to check out Snake Alley, the world’s twistiest road.

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Starr's Cave Nature Center, 11627 Starrs Cave Park Rd, Burlington, IA 52601, USA