There are hundreds of miles of trails in Iowa’s state parks, but you don’t have to be an experienced backpacker to enjoy some of the best. In fact, one of Iowa’s shortest hikes is the two mile Sunset Ridge trail in Waubonsie State Park, near Hamburg, Iowa. This southwestern state park features some of the best views in the state thanks to its location on the wind-deposited Loess Hills, and an easy stroll will show off a truly mesmerizing view.
Waubonsie State Park is located at 2585 Waubonsie Park Rd., Hamburg, IA 51640
Facebook / Friends Of Waubonsie State Park
If you take a look at the park map, you’ll see that Waubonsie offers several short trails from the park office. The Sunset Ridge trail is the one you don’t want to miss!
Waubonsie State Park
This trail is just two miles long, but with plenty of stunning overlooks from the top of the Loess Hills.
Flickr / Vincent Parsons
The stunning Loess Hills are a rare geological phenomenon that occurs close to the Missouri River. They’re the closest thing Iowa has to a true “front range”.
Flickr / Vincent Parsons
You’ll want to plan at least an hour to enjoy all of the stunning panoramic overlooks you’ll encounter as you walk
Flickr / Vincent Parsons
On any clear day, you can see for miles from the overlooks along the Sunset Ridge Trail.
Alltrails / Sam Schrader
Plan to be at the top of the trail around sunset for a truly unforgettable view.
Facebook / Iowa Through The Lens
The nearby Ridge Trail, Bridge Trail, Valley Trail and Overlook Trail are all less than one mile long, so if you don’t have the time for a full hour or more of hiking, check out either of these short trails. On the other hand, if you can make a day trip out of your visit to the park, you’ll find it’s worth it to explore each of these short side trails that lead to unforgettable views. If Iowa hiking is exciting to you, but you don’t want to overface yourself, start with trying out these 10 Amazing Iowa Hikes Under 3 Miles You’ll Absolutely Love.
Facebook / Friends Of Waubonsie State Park
Waubonsie State Park
Flickr / Vincent Parsons
Alltrails / Sam Schrader
Facebook / Iowa Through The Lens
What’s your favorite hike in Iowa? Tell us in the comments!
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Address: 2585 Waubonsie Park Rd., Hamburg, IA 51640
