Your Fall Guide to Outdoor Central Iowa
No matter how you feel about the changing of the seasons, one thing is for certain: fall is just around the corner. Whether you’re waving a sad goodbye to summer or a cheerful hello to autumn, the good news is that your time in the great outdoors is far from over. To help you make the most of the season, we’ve compiled a list of six can’t-miss Central Iowa outdoor spots.
Jump into fall by visiting Iowa’s newest publicly-owned forest! Loess Hills State Forest is nestled in the heart of Loess Hills, an area formed over time by wind-blown soil. Known for its unique terrain and scenic natural spaces, it is a must-see spot for many Midwesterners. Start your trip at the visitors’ center to learn about the geology, flora, and fauna of the area. Next, hike more than 60 scenic miles through the forest units, taking in the majestic views. Finally, camp in one of Iowa’s only hike-in backpacking campgrounds in Preparation Canyon State Park.
Jester Park offers a wide range of outdoor activities, sitting on 1,661 acres of land in Granger, Iowa. Those looking for a day trip can enjoy the picnic facilities, fishing ponds, horseback riding, golf, bison and elk herds, hiking trails, nature center, and superior birding. Modern reservable cabins and spacious campgrounds also make Jester a go-to spot for overnight stays.
The Rail Explorers team brings once-abandoned railroads back to life with railbike tours. Boone, Iowa is one of six locations nationwide, and offers breathtaking views of Iowa’s fall foliage on the Scenic Valley Trail. This unique Iowa experience fills up quickly, so snag your spot now!
An interactive outdoor history museum, Living History Farms has something for the whole family. Historical farm and town tours are available through October 31st, with special events like historic dinners and teas, skills classes, home tours, and more available at designated times. Living History Farms is located in Urbandale and is easily accessed off Interstate 35/80.
Looking for a quintessential fall day? You’ll find it at Wilson’s Orchard. Visit the animals, pick a pumpkin, grab a sweet treat, enjoy a meal, and wrap up the day by purchasing farm market items for later. Wilson’s Orchard is open Wednesday – Sunday.
Walnut Woods offers parkgoers a tranquil wooded destination just outside the city. Home to Iowa’s largest stand of black walnut trees, two miles of meandering trails hug the Raccoon River. Birdwatching is popular at Walnut Woods, with fall months featuring flycatchers, warblers, hawks, owls and several kinds of songbirds. Purple Martins can be spotted in the Purple Martin Water Resource Area, located just West of the main Walnut Woods Lodge. Looking to access more trail? The newly established Athene Pedestrian Bridge connects Walnut Woods Park to Raccoon River Park near the Hidden Valley Soccer Fields.
These are just a few of the many incredible ways to enjoy fall throughout Central Iowa. To discover more outdoor opportunities, we encourage you to visit the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and Catch DSM websites. We’ll see you out there!
