Loess Hills

Loess Hills National Scenic Byway

The Loess Hills National Scenic Byway is a 220 mile paved route with 185 miles of optional excursions along the way. You will see their signs along our route where our paths cross. Check out their website which includes maps of their routes in Monona and Woodbury county, events in the area as well as 125 things to do in the Loess Hills. Explore some of the byway on your way to the tour or on your way home. It’s absolutely beautiful and a great way to explore the Loess Hills!

https://www.visitloesshills.org/

Golden Hills Resource Conservation and Development

Golden Hills Resource Conservation and Development collaboratively develops and leads community, conservation, and cultural initiatives to improve our quality of life in rural western Iowa. Check out their website for news, events, projects, programs and services in Western Iowa! And if you are headed home towards Council Bluffs on Sunday check out their fundraiser from 3-6 at Full Fledged Brewing in Council Bluffs!

https://www.goldenhillsrcd.org/

Loess Hills Alliance

The mission of the Loess Hills Alliance strives to protect special natural and cultural resources while ensuring the economic viability and promoting awareness. Check out their website and social media for information about the Loess Hills and stunning photography!

https://www.loesshillsalliance.com/

Loess Hills Hospitality Association

The Mission of the Loess Hills Hospitality Assoc. is to be a citizen advocacy group, focused on public education and preservation of Iowa's Loess Hills. Visit their gift shop in Moorhead for unique gifts and more!

Loess Hills Hospitality Association on Facebook

Monona County Conservation

Monona County CCB manages 17 individual parks, natural areas, preserves and water recreation accesses with 1000 acres across Monona County. Hiking, Boating, Camping, Cabin Rentals and More are right here in Monona County. Here are a few near our tour:

Beaver Run Wildlife Area is off Highway L-37 NE of Mapleton - great for birdwatching and hiking.

Gray’s Landing is 5 miles SW of Mapleton on Hwy 175 - great for birdwatching as it hosts an abundance of migrating waterfowl and raptors. Eagles can be spotted in large numbers during the fall and spring. They also have first come - first serve campsites.

Discover Masters Prairie Trail is located West of Mapleton 1 mile along Highway 141. It contains a 2 mile walking trail and 24 acres of an abandoned railroad right of way that have been smoothed and planed with native short grasses and wildflowers.

Oldham Recreation Area is located 1.5 miles NW of Soldier at 38852 245th Street. A popular spot for fishing. camping and having a picnic.

Savery Pond is located 4 miles SE of Moorhead at 33787 Plum Ave. The 25 acre park includes a 15 acre pond. Another great spot for fishing but camping is prohibited.

Schoenjahn Wildlife Area is a greenbelt along the Maple River on the west edge of Mapleton along the Maple River. Wildlife viewing, bird watching, fishing and kayak/canoe are popular activities.

Woodbury County Conservation Area

Woodbury County has numerous parks, conservation areas and access points. Activities include camping, fishing, hiking, boating and more! We will have more information soon. In the mean time click the link above to see all Woodbury County has to offer!