Iowa is full of hidden natural wonders, and one of the best-hidden ones is only about 20 miles outside of the outskirts of Des Moines. Kuehn Conservation Area is a beautiful nature preserve in Iowa, home to hiking trails and quiet havens for reflection. It’s a fully restored prairie, recreating the ecosystem that was here centuries ago, and is a wonderful place for sightseeing and birdwatching. It’s also home to the annual Prairie Awoke Ceremony, a traditional gathering of Native American tribes in the area for prayer, dance, and celebration. These groups transform the conservation era every year into a celebration of their culture and history. If you’re here during this event, you’re in for a one-of-a-kind experience – but Kuehn Conservation Area is worth a visit any time of the year.

Kuehn Conservation Area is a beautiful nature preserve full of trails, prairies, and hidden surprises.
Taylor Lumley/Google Local
The main hiking trail is almost never busy, and is a 3.5-mile out-and-back trail considered easy and suitable for beginners.
Jennifer Benson/Google Local
Along the way, you'll find streams and ancient rock formations to explore, but no major challenging ascents.
Randi Stone/Google Local
Sometimes, the best way to see Kuehn is just to take a hike in the prairie, taking in the local flora for the season.
Taylor Lumley/Google Local

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This is also a top destination for bird-watchers, as the conservation area is used for releasing rehabbed injured birds in a safe environment.
Dallas County Conservation Board/Facebook
Every August, the conservation area is host to the annual Prairie Awoke ceremony - a gathering of Native groups filled with dance and other festivities.
Dallas County Conservation Board/Facebook
Along with drums, storytelling, and release of butterflies, the Native groups erect impressive traditional structures all over the preserve. Guests are welcome to visit, watch, and learn.
Meaghan Pike/Google Local
Kuehn is also a popular spot for tent camping, as the conservation area is a beautiful and peaceful place to spend the night.
Travel Iowa

Have you visited the Kuehn Conservation Center in the tiny town of Earlham? Let us know about your visit to this hidden nature preserve in Iowa in the comments section. You can find out more about the park on the official state website, and you can follow the Dallas County Conservation Board on Facebook for more upcoming events. For another major event in an Iowa nature center, check out this beloved maple syrup festival.

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Featured Addresses
Kuehn Conservation Area, 32849 Houston Trail, Earlham, IA 50072, USA