Byways in Iowa

Journey Through Iconic America: Discovering Iowa’s Diverse Byways

Iowa’s byways offer visitors journeys into iconic America. Diverse and rugged glacier-carved landscapes, shaped over thousands of years, flow seamlessly into vast flat plains and farmsteads sprinkled across rolling hills reminiscent of a Grant Wood painting. Iowa’s cultural heritage plays a major role on all fourteen byways, boasting hundreds of historic sites, state and county parks, national landmarks, and interpretive centers, each telling Iowa’s stories from the first Native Americans through European immigrants to modern times.

Expect the unexpected along Iowa’s byways. Trace the footsteps of Lewis and Clark. Explore six miles through geologic formations at Maquoketa Caves State Park. Ride your bike thirteen stories high. Marvel at mounds built by prehistoric cultures.

Iowa’s scenic drives and byways follow the road less traveled through a beautiful and remote countryside that is interspersed with small historic towns that each boast authentic character, local foods and hidden gems that can’t be found anywhere else.

Iowa has three scenic drives that are part of the America’s Byways collection:

Great River Road

Follow the mighty Mississippi River between Iowa’s southern and northern borders on the Iowa portion of the Great River Road. On this All-American Road, you will find world-class vistas, charming river towns, magnificent limestone bluffs, and a working river. Part of a 3,000-mile-long network of federal, state and county roads, the Great River Road stretches the length of the river from Lake Itasca in Minnesota to the Gulf of Mexico.

The views of the river are ever changing along the 328-mile route in Iowa. You may be looking down from the bluff at a panoramic scene or be right on the riverfront where you can dip your toes in the water. One constant as you travel this world-renowned route is the stories you will hear of the Mighty Mississippi and the nation it helped build.

Here are some of the best features of the Great River Road in Iowa:

1. Prehistoric Native American Mounds: It’s hard to escape discovering history on the Great River Road because people have inhabited the Mississippi River valley for thousands of years. You’ll find the evidence of prehistoric Native Americans at Effigy Mounds National Monument in northeast Iowa and Toolesboro Indian Mounds about seven miles east of Wapello.
2. Living History of European Settlers: You’ll also be following in the footsteps of the first Europeans to visit Iowa, French explorers Jacques Marquette and Louis Joliet. Later, immigrants from Germany, Ireland, France, and Scandinavia settled into the beautiful spaces along the byway. Eighteen national interpretive centers and museums along the byway retell the histories of the people who have lived here.
3. National Riverboat Museums: The river has also changed over the years as people have tried to tame it, mainly for transportation. A stop at one of the 11 lock and dam systems is worth your time. Some offer tours and at others you may see barges carrying their loads of corn, coal, combines, and other equipment. Learn more about transportation at one of the national riverboat museums in Dubuque, LeClaire, and Keokuk.
4. Scenic River Vistas: Pikes Peak State Park overlooks the Mississippi River opposite the confluence of the Wisconsin River, providing spectacular views of the Mississippi River Valley from Iowa and some of the best views in the upper Midwest of the Mississippi River. A spectacular panoramic view of fifty miles of the beautiful Mississippi River valley rewards visitors who take the side trip up the 104-acre Mount Hosmer City Park, situated on a bluff 450 feet above the town of Lansing.
5. Water Recreation: Today, you are as likely to see recreational boats as working vessels. You may spot canoes, kayaks, sailboats, fishing boats and jet skis on the water. If you’ve got a hankering to take a ride yourself, you’ll find a variety of options up and down the river, ranging from pontoon ecotours to a dinner cruise on a replica steamship.
6. Wildlife Viewing at National Wildlife Refuges: As you travel the Great River Road, you are also following the Mississippi River Flyway, a major corridor for migratory birds. (More than 325 bird species make the round trip each year along the flyway, from breeding grounds in Canada and the northern United States to wintering grounds in Central and South America.) Two national wildlife refuges on the Mississippi River in Iowa offer safe resting and feeding habitat to ducks, geese, and other birds making their way to Canada, Mexico and beyond. The refuges and other public lands offer wildlife viewing, as well as opportunities to hunt, fish, paddle, picnic, camp, and dangle your feet in the river.
7. Riverfront Trails: If you like your outdoor adventures a little less on the wild side, many towns have transformed their riverfronts into parks with extensive bicycling and walking trails.
8. Charming River Towns: The tug of the river also affects businesses you’ll find along the byway. Bed and breakfasts, hotels and guest cabins are often situated with a view of the water. Restaurants feature catfish and offer outdoor decks for warm weather dining.
9. Fall Foliage: Some of the state’s most colorful fall foliage can be found along Great River Road, especially in towns such as Marquette and McGregor.
10. Art Galleries & Studios: Local artists are inspired by the natural beauty, and you can visit galleries and studios along the way to purchase works from watercolors and photographs to pottery and jewelry.

Lincoln Highway Heritage Byway

It’s easy to remember you’re on the Lincoln Highway with historic bridges, signs, original 1928 Lincoln Highway markers, Burma-Shave signs, and Lincoln Highway folk art around every corner. The legendary route, America’s first transcontinental improved highway, was established in 1913, beginning at Times Square in New York City and ending in Lincoln Park in San Francisco, with the center being Tama, Iowa and the Lincoln Highway Bridge.

The Byway was eventually named after Abraham Lincoln as a memorial. The highway traverses fourteen states. Today, you can follow much of the original route on Iowa’s Lincoln Highway Heritage Byway, passing through dozens of small towns and some of the state’s largest cities. With so much to offer, it’s easy to see why this route has been designated as one of America’s National Scenic Byways.

Though farmland is a constant feature, the landscape is as diverse as the communities you’ll travel through on the byway’s 460 miles. From the steep bluffs of the Mississippi River to the level plains and undulating river valleys of central Iowa and to the wind-sculpted Loess Hills near the Missouri River, the views are always changing.

Here are some of the best features of the Lincoln Highway Heritage Byway:

1. Lincoln Highway History: History buffs will marvel at nationally known landmarks of the Lincoln Highway, including Preston’s Gas Station in Belle Plaine, Tama’s Lincoln Highway Bridge and the Reed-Niland Corner at Colo. Throughout the byway, towns and cities have committed to preserving the character of this famous road, and travelers will find examples of historic buildings, canopy gas stations and vintage cafes, as well as roadside sculptures, murals and art. Interpretive markers, signs and museums along the route unravel the mysteries and explain the legacy of this historic road. (There are over 200 individual properties and over 340 districts that are listed on the National Register of Historic Places along the Byway corridor in Iowa alone.)
2. Boone & Scenic Valley Railroad and Museum: All aboard the famous Boone & Scenic Valley Railroad for spectacular views of the Des Moines River Valley. For a one-of-a-kind experience, hop on the Rail Explorers‘ rail bikes to experience the tracks up close.
3. National Wildlife Refuges: If you are ready to get out of your vehicle, there are many places for outdoor recreation, providing plenty of choices for where to go and what to do. The Byway has a national wildlife refuge on each end and one in the middle. In addition, numerous state and county parks offer camping, hunting, fishing, swimming and picnicking.
4. High Trestle Trail: You might stretch your legs with a bike ride or hike on more than 700 miles of trails in the Byway corridor. Central Iowa has become a mecca for recreational trails with 670 miles (and counting), including the High Trestle Trail near Madrid. This 25-mile trail includes an artistic 13-story high bridge with an unforgettable view of the Des Moines River valley.
5. College Towns: For a more leisurely stroll, wander through one of the Byway’s striking college campuses, including Iowa State University in Ames or Cornell College in Mount Vernon.
6. Ledges State Park: Ledges State Park in Madrid is a showcase of some of the most unique and inspiring natural resources in the state of Iowa. Distinct geological features, diverse vegetation and abundant wildlife have been enticing people to the area for thousands of years.
7. Meskwaki Tribal Museum, Tama: The Meskwaki Settlement, home to Iowa’s only resident Native American tribe, is located along the Byway. The Tribal Museum, Meskwaki Casino, and Powwow grounds are must-visits to experience just a little of this culture.
8. Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum: The displays in the Presidential Museum in West Branch tell of the life and career of Herbert Hoover. His birthplace cottage is also on site. It is one of thirteen presidential museums operated by the National Archives and Records Administration.
9. Cedar Rapids Museum of Art: Over 2,000 years of temporary and permanent collection exhibitions including Art in Roman Life and works by Grant Wood and Marvin Cone.

Loess Hills National Scenic Byway

Majestic views are the hallmark of a trip on the Loess Hills National Scenic Byway. Formed by deposits of very fine, windblown soil at the end of the last ice age, these are not your average hills. Spanning 15 miles at their widest and nearly 200 miles long from Sioux City, Iowa to St. Joseph, Mo., you’d have to travel to China to see any taller loess formations.

The views include panoramas of the fertile Missouri River valley farmland, forested hills and vast grasslands. Scenic overlooks are strategically placed and offer interpretive signage along with parking. The byway features a 220-mile paved main route, with an additional 185 miles of optional excursion loops that range from interstate highways to gravel roads. These roads lead you from the Missouri border to Akron and are easily accessed from Interstates 29 and 80.

1. Outdoor Wonders: Hundreds of opportunities exist along the byway to get out and experience the Loess Hills. One popular destination is the state’s largest remnant prairie, Broken Kettle Grasslands Preserve near Sioux City. This is a great place to search for the rare flora and fauna found in the Loess Hills. The region’s state forests and preserves are also good bets, but a trip in early June to the annual Loess Hills Prairie Seminar is the best way to learn about the extraordinary natural resources found here.
2. Birding: A must-see for birders is the 45-foot-high observation tower at Hitchcock Nature Center north of Crescent. During fall migration, the tower is staffed during daylight hours with volunteers who count hawks and other raptors on their journey south.
3. Historic Loess Hills: The story of the Loess Hills spans thousands of years and there are plenty of stops along the byway where you can learn more about this fascinating topography. At the northern reaches, the Loess Hills Interpretive Center and Dorothy Pecaut Nature Center have interactive exhibits explaining the geology and natural history of the area. Other sites interpret Native American occupation of the Loess Hills that dates back 6,000 years.
4. Lewis and Clark Monument and Scenic Overlook: The byway traces the route of the Lewis and Clark Corps of Discovery, which made its way through the area in 1804 as the expedition headed northwest towards Oregon. In Sioux City, you can visit the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center or a 100-foot obelisk atop a bluff overlooking the Missouri River that marks the grave of Sgt. Charles Floyd, the only casualty of the Corps’ expedition.
5. Squirrel Cage Jail: This rare 1885 three-story Victorian Gothic-style brick structure is one of only three of this type of rotary cell jails left in existence. It served as a jail between 1885 and 1969.
6. Savor Local Wine: The soil and terrain of the Loess Hills resembles that of the world-renowned wine regions of France and Germany, and in recent years wineries have sprouted up all along the byway. The region was designated the Loess Hills District American Viticultural Area (AVA) as a specific geographic area where grapes are grown for wine and an area where soil type, climate, and elevation is clearly distinguishable from its surroundings. Unique wineries and vineyards provide many spots for wine connoisseurs and beginners alike to enjoy local wines.
7. Loess Hills Lavender Farm: The farm offers a gift shop with handmade lavender products, teas, and luncheon options. The third weekend in July is the annual Lavender Stock where visitors can cut a lavender bundle, attend a craft class, enjoy live music, and browse the many vendor tables throughout the fields.
8. Wabash Trace Nature Trail – Malvern Trailhead: One of Iowa’s premier trails, stretching more than sixty-two miles through southwest Iowa. Converted railroad right-of-way that runs from Council Bluffs on the north to Blanchard on the Iowa/Missouri border.

More great scenic drives in Iowa:

• Covered Bridges Scenic Byway
• Delaware Crossing Scenic Byway
• Driftless Area Scenic Byway
• Glacial Trail Scenic Byway
• Grant Wood Scenic Byway
• Historic Hills Scenic Byway
• Iowa Valley Scenic Byway
• Jefferson Highway Heritage Byway
• River Bluffs Scenic Byway
• Western Skies Scenic Byway
• White Pole Road Scenic Byway

Planning Your Scenic Byway Adventure

Iowa’s scenic and heritage byways offer a diverse range of experiences, from the… to the rich history along the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers. As you plan your journey, be sure to check for current road conditions, accommodations, and dining options along the way. Additionally, take the time to explore the charming towns and historical sites that each byway connects you with.

Whether you’re seeking a leisurely drive, outdoor adventure, or a deep dive into history, Iowa’s byways have something to offer every traveler. So, buckle up, hit the road, and discover the natural beauty and cultural richness of “The Hawkeye State.”

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Iowa depends on your preferences and what you want to experience during your trip. Iowa experiences all four seasons, each offering unique opportunities for outdoor activities and exploration. Here’s a breakdown of the seasons and what you can expect:

Spring (March to May):
Spring in Iowa often has mild temperatures but can also have a lot of precipitation. The countryside is in bloom with wildflowers and tree blossoms. It’s an excellent time for birding and visiting farms to meet baby animals. Iowa’s tulip festivals are not to be missed in May!

Summer (June to August):
Summer is the best time to visit Iowa in terms of viewing its iconic farmland and corn fields. Iowa also has some of the country’s best county fairs and, of course, there’s the Iowa State Fair in August. Summer is the best time to visit Iowa for water recreation including riverboat tours, music festivals, and RAGBRAI (Register’s Annual Great Bicycle Ride Across Iowa), the oldest, largest and longest recreation bicycle touring event in the world. Expect warm to hot temperatures and lots of humidity, plus the occasional spectacular thunderstorm.

 

Fall (September to November):

Autumn is a great time to visit Iowa, as temperatures begin to cool down from the summer. Colorful fall foliage stands out most in the Northwest and Northeast corners of the state. Fall festivals, including the Madison County Covered Bridge Festival, are plentiful and not to be missed. Iowa provides excellent public lands for hunting, and nowhere are corn mazes more spectacular than in Iowa!

Winter (December to February): Temperatures certainly take a dip in Iowa in the winter, especially in terms of wind chill and seasonal snow. That doesn’t stop most adventurers from enjoying the great outdoors. Snowshoeing, sledding, cross-country skiing, and ice fishing are popular activities throughout the state. It’s also an excellent time for wildlife tracking and eagle watching. Don’t miss the Color the Wind Kite Festival in Clear Lake! The holidays are particularly charming in Iowa’s small towns where visitors can cozy up in a Bed and Breakfast when they’re not busy shopping at quaint boutiques or touring art and cultural museums.

Getting There:

Iowa is served by the Des Moines International Airport, seven regional airports, and numerous municipal airports. Iowa borders the states of Minnesota, Wisconsin, Illinois, Missouri, Nebraska, and South Dakota. Des Moines, the state capital, is approximately a five-hour drive from Chicago, three-and-a-half hours from Minneapolis, less than three hours from Kansas City, and two hours from Omaha.

 

Fall Foliage:

Peak fall color occurs in northern Iowa, on average, between October 7-16. Typically, peak fall color occurs progressively later the farther south you go in Iowa. Central Iowa reached peak fall color around October 15-23, with southern portions reaching their peak in the third week of October.

Fall is an especially scenic time on the Driftless Area Scenic Byway as the hardwood timbers blaze with color. One of the most photographed spots in Iowa, Pikes Peak State Park offers even more beautiful views during the fall. Hikers can get a bird’s eye view of the Loess Hills and fall foliage from the top of the 45-foot-tall observation tower at Hitchcock Nature Center in Honey Creek. The 36-mile loop of Glacial Trail Scenic Byway takes some surprising turns through historic oak savannahs, changing prairie grasses, red and golden foliage and crisp blue skies, offering a perfect fall day on the road.

Driving Tips:

Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, here are some driving tips for navigating Iowa safely:

• Buckle Up: Iowa requires all passengers in the front seats of a vehicle to wear seat belts. The law also applies to passengers in the back seats who are under age 18.
• Be Mindful of Wildlife: One of the leading causes of crashes on Iowa roadways is wildlife, typically with deer. October, November and May are the peak months for deer collisions; however, they can occur at any time of the year. Deer travel in groups, so always look for more animals if one is seen. If an animal is encountered, and there isn’t time to stop, don’t swerve or veer as this will likely result in a more severe crash.
• Watch for Farm Equipment: In rural areas, you may encounter slow-moving farm equipment on the road. Exercise patience and pass safely when it’s permitted.
• Avoid Distracted Driving: Iowa’s distracted driving law prohibits the use of mobile phones and other hand-held electronic communication devices to write, send, or view an electronic message while driving. Before writing, sending, or reading a text message, email, or social media post, the vehicle must be brought to a complete stop off the traveled portion of the roadway.
• Iowa’s Move Over or Slow Down Law requires motorists to change lanes when approaching any of the following stopped vehicles displaying flashing lights:
  • Any stopped emergency, tow, recovery, maintenance, construction, solid waste, or recycling collection vehicle that has its flashing lights activated.
  • Any stopped motor vehicle, including a passenger vehicle, that is continually displaying hazard lights.
  • If a lane change is not possible, prohibited by law, or unsafe, you must slow down and be prepared to stop. While no speed is specified, it must be reasonable and proper for the existing conditions.
• Slow-Moving Vehicles: A reflective orange triangle on the rear of a vehicle means it is traveling 35 mph or less. You may see this sign on road maintenance equipment, farm vehicles, or horse-drawn wagons in Amish communities.
• Winter Driving: In the winter months, be prepared for potential ice and snow. Equip your vehicle with snow tires or chains if necessary and drive cautiously on slippery roads.
• Mind the heat: Never leave children, elderly persons, dependent persons, or pets in an enclosed vehicle alone. Depending on the temperature and humidity, the inside of a vehicle can soar above 160 degrees in less than 10 minutes. Even on a mild, 78 degree day, the inside of a parked vehicle can reach 100 degrees in minutes. Long exposure to extreme heat may lead to a heat stroke or death. If you see someone suffering from symptoms of heat stroke, call 911 and seek medical attention immediately. In Iowa it is legal for you to break a vehicle’s window in order to provide medical attention to a person or animal trapped inside.

By following these driving tips and adhering to the rules of the road, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable driving experience in Iowa. Remember that road conditions can change, so stay informed and adapt to the circumstances as needed to maintain safety on your journey.

Read more at www.travelbyways.com.