Golden Hills is excited to announce that Cara Marker-Morgan has been promoted to Executive Director. Cara has been the Watershed Coordinator since 2017 and was Interim Director since Michelle Wodtke Franks left last April. Cara will continue to assist in the Water Resources program as well as the other programs that Golden Hills provides including Community Support. Additionally, Lance Brisbois is now Golden Hills' Deputy Director. This is a new position assisting the Executive Director with day-to-day operations and management for the organization. Lance is still leading and assisting with several of our Land Stewardship and Outdoor recreation projects. He started as a Project Coordinator in 2014. We have also hired new staff members and have new board members. Stay tuned for details on these changes in our next newsletter soon!
Find information about all our team members at goldenhillsrcd.org/staff
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These intrinsic qualities are the essence of the Glacial Trail Scenic Byway. It is “old Iowa” at its best. Below are some places to explore the historical and cultural heritage along the Glacial Trail Scenic Byway. O'Brien County Prairie Heritage Center Prairie Heritage Center is located in the southeastern corner of O’Brien County, near the corners of Buena Vista, Cherokee, and Clay counties. It is the primary contact point for visitors to the Glacial Trail Scenic Byway, providing interpretation of the area’s natural, cultural, and archaeological history. The center, operated by O’Brien County Conservation, opened in 2006 to interpret the prairie landscape of northwestern Iowa. The visitor center is open Wednesdays through Sundays and features exhibits about prairie ecology, the Mill Creek Indian Culture, and O’Brien County’s settlers. Staff naturalists offer environmental education programs for youth and the public. The center’s icon is the bison, and a small herd is fenced on the property. A replica pioneer wagon pulled by oxen statues invites visitors to climb inside and learn about the first settlers in the area. The center overlooks the Little Sioux River Valley and a patchwork of grassland and forested hills and valleys. An access point offers water-based recreation on the Little Sioux River. Walking trails loop through restored grassland and oak savanna. Pear Tree House This historic home in Sutherland is a community museum and houses historical documents and other memorabilia. It is open for special events during the summer. General N.B. Baker Library William Houston Woods and his wife, Roma Wheeler Woods, of Old O’Brien founded the General N.B. Baker Library Association in 1874 in their log cabin. Residents came from miles around to borrow books and magazines to help them pass the long winters. Gen. N.B. Baker, formerly governor of New Hampshire, moved to Iowa in 1856. He was instrumental in the early growth of the library, which is now located in a former school. Heritage Park This historic village in Primghar features a log cabin, historic home, hotel, bank, Philby Church, and Center Township No. 3 School. The buildings feature artifacts, exhibits, and research materials. The O’Brien County Historical Society manages the park. Hannibal Waterman Wildlife Area The wildlife area, across the road from the visitor center, is the site of the first settler in O’Brien County in 1856. Trails circle through the property, passing the Hannibal Waterman family cemetery and a historic marker placed by the O’Brien County Daughters of the American Revolution. In 1857, Santee Sioux Chief Inkpaduta and his band stopped at Hannibal Waterman’s cabin, gathering food and supplies and then moving upriver. Hanging Valley and Dutch Fred's Grave The section of Waterman Prairie south of Highway 10 offers an accessible prairie experience for byway visitors. A parking lot on Wilson Avenue, 1½ miles south of Highway 10, leads to a trail that meanders through prairie-covered ridges with spectacular vistas of the Little Sioux River valley. The Iowa Department of Natural Resources is restoring the prairie to its original plant community.
Cherokee County Sanford Museum & Planetarium Sanford Museum in Cherokee opened in 1951 to offer exhibits and activities about archaeology, history, geology, astronomy, natural history, and paleontology. Exhibits interpret prehistoric northwestern Iowa, featuring the Mill Creek Culture (using artifacts such as pottery, tools, and artwork), and the history of Cherokee. The museum also offers planetarium shows. The facility is open daily and admission is free. Cherokee Library Cherokee’s public library was established in 1886 by the Cherokee Ladies Library Association and was housed in the YMCA and other shared facilities. In 1903, the Carnegie Foundation awarded $10,000 to the city to build a library. The foundation later awarded an additional $2,000, and by 1905 the building was finished. The community’s library is still in use and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Cherokee Depot Cherokee served as a hub for the Illinois Central rail line. The Illinois Central passenger depot, built in 1896, was used as a passenger station until 1971 and as a freight station until 1982, when the building was vacated. The rail yard complex was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1990. A nonprofit community group purchased the depot complex in 1991 and maintains it. It is open by appointment. Buena Vista County Brooke Creek Bridge This bridge over Brooke Creek, a tributary of the Little Sioux River, was built in 1909. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places because of its historic architecture and construction. The bridge is accessible from an unmaintained gravel road and is closed to traffic. Clay County Jim’s History Barn A collector since childhood, Jim Hass bought a 1928 barn in Spencer and had it moved to Peterson to display his collections. Included are Native American artifacts, war memorabilia, local history items, and curiosities of all kinds. Tours available by appointment.
Jacob Kirchner Memorial Park Peterson Heritage, a nonprofit organization founded in 1971 to preserve and maintain historical sites in Peterson, established this park for that purpose. The park includes a playground, veterans’ memorial, the Machinery Museum, Christian Kirchner House, J.A. (Gust) Kirchner House, and Rock Forest School. The Kirchner Farm Machinery Museum houses antique farm equipment including a covered wagon that trekked to Yellowstone Park and back in 1898, a sheepherder’s wagon, a fence making machine, and more. The museum is open by appointment. J.A. (Gust) Kirchner built his Italianate style, two-story home in 1875. It includes period furniture. Built in 1867, the Christian Kirchner Home was the first frame house in Clay County. It still stands at its original location. Descendants deeded this home of Christian and Magdalene Kirchner, parents of J.A. (Gust) and Jacob Kirchner, to the city in 1971. Peterson Heritage restored and furnished the home. It is open by appointment. Built in 1868, Rock Forest School was one of the first frame schoolhouses in Clay County. It was originally located in the northwest quarter of Peterson Township and was used until 1918. The building was moved to the park in 1963 and restored by the Peterson Lions Club. It is open for school group tours, special occasions, and by request. Kirchner French Memorial Library In 1925, Lena Kirchner French willed a farm west of Peterson to provide funds for the construction of a library. The structure was built in 1937 with assistance from the Works Progress Administration. French, a member of the first family to settle in Peterson, wanted people of all ages to be exposed to the joy of reading. The library is still in use today. Wittrock Indian Village State Preserve
Wittrock Indian Village on Waterman Creek, just northeast of Sutherland, is a model depiction of late prehistoric Mill Creek culture. This 6-acre site features the buried remains of a fortified village occupied by Indians of the Mill Creek Culture between the years 1200 and 1300. Located on a low terrace of Waterman Creek, the site included 20 rectangular earth lodges that archaeologists have identified. A wide ditch and solid stockade wall protected the village from attack. The village has never been affected by construction or cultivation. The Mill Creek people hunted bison and grew corn and other produce in the rich creek bottoms. The site is a National Historic Landmark and an Archaeological State Preserve.
The 964 acre Five Ridge Prairie, a dedicated state preserve in western Plymouth County, exemplifies the northern loess bluffs of western Iowa with a mixture of oak timbered valleys, native prairie ridge tops and west facing slopes. This unique loess landform site is home to several state threatened and endangered plant and animal species. It was also the site of the original wild turkey restoration stocking for Plymouth County. The public is invited to hike and enjoy Five Ridge year round. This is a very large, hilly park, so be sure you let someone know where you will be and when you will be back. Take a map along, and do not cross any fences. Crossing a fence will take you out of our park boundaries and will make it much harder to rescue a lost hiker. Mowed fire breaks offer a number of paths for hikers, snowshoers and cross country skiers alike. Fire breaks are typically mowed in July. Metal sign posts with the exit to the parking lot are clearly marked throughout the fire break system. Public hunting is permitted beginning the 3rd Saturday in September through January 31 according to Iowa DNR regular seasons and hours. Spring wild turkey hunting is permitted all day, each day per Iowa DNR seasons and regulations. It is unlawful to hunt badger, woodchuck, or fox at Five Ridge. No target shooting. text source: Plymouth County Conservation Commonly seen birds: Grasshopper Sparrow, Eastern Kingbird, Rose-breasted Grosbeak Birds to look for: Townsend’s Solitaire, Bobolink, Blue Grosbeak Other Inhabitants: White-tailed Deer, Red Fox, Coyote, Badger wildlife source: Loess Hills Audubon Society
Broken Kettle is a sweeping reminder of nature’s beauty. Not only is it the Nature Conservancy’s largest preserve in Iowa, but it contains the largest remaining prairie in Iowa. In 1999, the Conservancy found the prairie rattlesnake, an extremely rare species, at this site, making Broken Kettle even more important to the region. The Nature Conservancy welcomed a herd of 28 bison at Broken Kettle Grasslands preserve in the fall of 2008—an historic event benefiting the native prairie and the bison herd itself. The extensive prairie ridgetops feature a variety of plants and animals typically found further west in the Great Plains, and also provide a critical habitat for many species of prairie butterflies. This area also hosts the largest tract of contiguous native prairie left in the state. The terrain is steep and rugged in places and predominantly grasslands. Expect to see snakes, insects, grassland birds and breathtaking vistas while you hike. There are no official trails but hiking is permitted south of Butcher Road. text source: The Nature Conservancy Commonly seen birds: Field Sparrow, Bell’s Vireo, Dickcissel, Eastern Meadowlark, Western Meadowlark Birds to look for: Black-billed Magpie, Grasshopper Sparrow, Bobolink, Upland Sandpiper Other Inhabitants: White-tailed Deer; Bison; Coyote; Badger; Great Plains Toad; Plains Spadefoot; Dusted Skipper; Regal Fritillary; Ottoe Skipper; Pawnee Skipper. wildlife source: Loess Hills Audubon Society
The 580-acre Hillview Recreation Area contains a mixture of open grasslands, reconstructed prairie, oak woodlands, and wildlife habitat. The park also manages a herd of elk. Hillview has a series of trails that can be a short loop or can be combined to take a long walk through the park. Trails wind through oak forests, prairies, and around the pond. The trails are great places to observe the abundant wildlife in the park. There is also a mountain bike trail in the park. During the fall and winter, October 15 - January 10, parts of Hillview are open to public hunting. Should you choose to use the trail system during hunting seasons, please make yourself visible by wearing blaze orange and be aware of your surroundings. text source: Plymouth County Conservation
Originally named “Spirit Knoll” (a term coined by the previous owner of the property during the development of a proposed subdivision), the name Heendah Hills was approved by the State Preserves Advisory Board and pays homage to the American Indian identity of the preserve. Heendah is the phonetic pronunciation of “hinda”, meaning Great Horned Owl, in the Ioway/Baxoje language. The Great Horned Owl is a resident species of the region. High quality native prairie is present on approximately 23 acres on a ridge along the south edge of the preserve. An additional 26 acres of formerly grazed prairie with good representation of native plants (“prairie pasture”) is found in the northeast corner of the new preserve. Woodland (with bur oak and other tree species) and thickets form patches scattered on the landscape. Small patches of former cropland now dominated by a variety of volunteer plant species are found below the dam holding a 6-acre pond and in an old bottomland field in the far northeast corner of the preserve. text source: Loess Hills Audubon Society Commonly seen birds: Field Sparrow, Ring-necked pheasant, Dickcissel, Great Horned Owl Birds to look for: Grasshopper Sparrow, Bell’s Vireo, Great Crested Flycatcher Other Inhabitants: White-tailed Deer, Beaver, Badger, Coyote, Ball-nosed Hopper (insect) and Rainbow Grasshopper (first Iowa report of this species) wildlife source: Loess Hills Audubon Society
Knapp Prairie was donated to the Nature Conservancy by Barry and Carolyn Knapp in 1997. It is a rare example of mesic Loess Hills prairie growing on the lower portions of moderate slopes, saved from conversion to row crops or brome pasture by the tradition of cutting prairie hay. This site is an important seed source for the reconstruction of lower slopes and valleys at other nearby preserves. Knapp Prairie Preserve is dominated by tallgrass prairie species adapted to deeper, mesic loess soils. Knapp Prairie is also an important prairie butterfly conservation area. More than 900 regal fritillaries, orange and yellow butterflies, have been observed in a single survey at Knapp prairie, making it one of the largest U.S. populations of this butterfly. The Conservancy harvests seeds from the plants that attract these butterflies for use in restoring other prairies in the area. The terrain is steep and rugged in places and predominantly grasslands. Expect to see snakes, insects, grassland birds and breathtaking vistas while you hike. There are not any official trails but hiking is permitted throughout. text source: The Nature Conservancy
Hiking the Byways is a regular series by Golden Hills RC&D that features publicly accessible lands open to hiking on the three scenic byways in western Iowa that Golden Hills RC&D coordinates: Glacial Trail Scenic Byway, Loess Hills National Scenic Byway, and Western Skies Scenic Byway. Each Friday a blog post covers hiking areas in one county on one of the aforementioned byways. For questions about hiking on the byways, contact Seth Brooks ([email protected]).
Danelle Myer grew up on a conventional rowcrop farm in the rolling hills of southwest Iowa, near Logan in Harrison County. She moved away for college, where she studied public relations, then worked in PR and marketing for more than 15 years. During that time she liked gardening and cooking, but enjoyed her work and wasn’t looking for a career change. Danelle became interested in healthy eating and learned about the benefits of organic agriculture and food. When she realized the opportunity and incredible privilege she had with access to family land, Danelle decided she wanted to grow food for her hometown community. She was accepted into an apprenticeship program at University of California-Santa Cruz Center for Agriculture & Sustainable Food Systems, where she learned about sustainable and healthy food production. She then moved back to Logan and started One Farm. Her first season farming was 2011. One Farm started selling at the Harrison County Welcome Center Farmers Market, which she continued to do through 2021. For several years she did weekly online orders, and also had a One Box (similar to a CSA). In the third season, One Farm built a high tunnel to extend the growing season. This has allowed the farm to continue and expand their Thanksgiving Box every November, and offers greens like spinach outside of the typical seasons in Iowa. Today One Farm continues to grow the foods that have proven to be the most popular and sellable over the past 12 years, including several varieties of heirloom tomatoes, sungold cherry tomatoes, green beans, lettuce, spinach, and herbs. You can find these products when in season at the store. For years, Danelle pondered the possibility of a retail store to sell her products and other local products, but wondered about the feasibility of running both a farm and a store. In February 2020, she attended the Southwest Iowa Community & Economic Development Forum, hosted by TS Bank, Golden Hills, and Western Iowa Development Association. This event reignited her interest and inspired her to dive in and give it a try during One Farm’s 10th year. Two weeks later, the new COVID-19 virus caused unprecedented shutdowns and impacted every facet of daily life. Grocery store shelves were emptied as supply-chain issues lingered for many months. During this time, more and more people looked for places to buy local foods and support their community. On Halloween in 2020, during the height of the pandemic, One Farm had its first pop-up market at a space on Logan’s main street, with a long line out the door. The market had numerous subsequent pop-ups through Christmas that year, selling produce, flours, honey, jams, soaps, and a few other items. Based on the resounding success of the pop-ups, One Farm Market started hosting regular hours and became a full-on retail shop in 2021. Their product listing has continued to diversify over time. Everything at One Farm Market is grown or made in Iowa or the Omaha area. Products include: vegetables, herbs, dairy, meat, eggs, flours, pasta noodles, jams, honey, granola, granola bars, maple syrup, oils, salad dressings, sauces, chocolate treats, soda, bath & body products, charcuterie boards, wooden bowls & utensils, candles, dog treats, handmade home goods, One Farm swag (shirts, mugs, etc.), and much more. For a limited time, they are offering some citrus fruits from a friend of Danelle’s in California. Products are shipped directly from farms, sourced through Farmtable Delivery, and in some instances picked up directly by One Farm. One Farm Market is located at 215 East 7th Street in Logan, right along Highway 30 and three of Iowa's scenic byways: Loess Hills National Scenic Byway, Lincoln Highway Heritage Byway, and Western Skies Scenic Byway.
One Farm Market is currently open Wednesdays from 3:30-6:30 and Saturdays from 10am-1pm, with additional hours coming in 2023. Follow One Farm on Facebook for updated information on their hours, products, and sales. January can be a bleak month in southwest Iowa. Low lying clouds can conjure feelings of claustrophobia, and with minimal snow on the ground muted earth tones are pervasive. However, talking with Jessa Bears who, along with her fiancé, Melissa, owns and operates Sycamore Ridge Small Farm LLC, I am reminded that spring will soon return. When I pulled into Sycamore Ridge Small Farm, located just west of highway 59, south of Shenandoah, I was greeted by her friendly farm dogs. Jessa was outside too, already busy with her morning chores. Jessa walked me around her farmstead, introducing me to her animals. We discussed all the exciting things she has planned for the upcoming season. When many of us are simply surviving the doldrums of winter, waiting for the first glimmer of spring, Jessa is busy planning for her upcoming season. And she has some interesting and new ideas. With the ever-rising cost of food, and concerns about supply chain issues, Jessa has decided that this season she will offer what she is calling Garden Starter Kits. A Garden Starter Kit is a terrific idea for someone who has an area, even a small area, to plant some veggies, but maybe they are intimidated by the process. Her Garden Starter Kits are offered in three sizes, small, medium and large. With the kit you get vegetable and herb starts, the number depending on the kit size you purchase. The kits also come with optional add-ons: rabbit manure fertilizer, flower starts, and additional herb starts. What I like most about her Garden Starter Kits is that with the kit purchase, Jessa is offering her expertise. She is willing to answer questions about the plants and gardening process, hoping to eliminate doubts that may stop someone from planting a garden. However, these kits are not limited to those that are garden newbies, maybe you don’t have the space or time to grow your own starts. If that’s the case, talk to Jessa. She has you covered. Another exciting and colorful idea that Sycamore Ridge is offering for the upcoming season is what Jessa is referring to as a Flower Experience. The Flower Experience gives you a chance to visit Jessa and Melissa’s farm and cut fresh flowers for bouquets. This season they will be growing nine fifty-foot rows of zinnias, sunflowers, cosmos and more. You can pre-purchase the Flower Experience now for yourself, or maybe as a gift to a friend, or loved one. This Valentine’s Day consider giving someone a gift, or an experience, that keeps giving through the growing season. In addition to vegetables and flowers, the ladies at Sycamore Ridge have a diverse group of animals that call the farm home. They raise Flemish Giant rabbits, a large breed historically valued for their fur and meat. They raise Nigerian Dwarf goats and sell the offspring. A flock of laying hens provide eggs for their family, and when there is excess Sycamore Ridge sells them to the public. A pig, named Gir, and Macy, a brown cow, are part of the farm family too, and are considered more pet-like than livestock. Visiting with Jessa was energizing and hopeful. She is enthusiastic about her farm and about helping people realize the benefits of plants and purchasing locally raised vegetables and proteins. When I asked Jessa why she enjoys farming, her answer was simple and understandable, “I like it because it makes me happy”. This happiness is apparent in her creativity and willingness to discuss her farm. If you would like to meet Jessa and swap seeds, talk gardening or flowers, or if you are simply longing for the green to return and the feel of soil on your fingertips, come to the Annual Southwest Iowa Seed Swap this Saturday, January 28th from 11am-2pm at the River Market 190, 2025 190th Street, between Shenandoah and Clarinda. Bring some seeds to swap, or just come and meet the farmer. If you need more information prior to Saturday call or text Jessa at (712) 309-1113. To learn more about what Jessa and Melissa have to offer visit their Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/SycamoreRidgeIA or their easy to navigate and shoppable webpage: https://www.sycamoreridgesmallfarm.com/
In addition, Sycamore Ridge Small Farm LLC products can be found at Shepherds Frock in Sidney, and the Red Oak Farmers Market. Last year (only two weeks ago!), Golden Hills RC&D suggested a host of activities and locations to enjoy the winter wonderland of western Iowa. For those that prefer to keep cozy and warm during winter, those suggestions probably got the cold shoulder. Freeze not, however, as there are plenty of fun and interesting indoor activities to keep you busy (and warm!) deep into winter. Botany and Ecology Virtual Workshops For starters, Golden Hills RC&D is offering another series of botany and ecology virtual workshops. These online classes are a great way to spend an evening learning from experts on topics relevant to western Iowa from the comfort of your couch. All sessions are on Thursdays at 7pm, beginning January 26, and last between one to one and a half hours. Each class costs $10 and pre-registration is required. For more details and registration, visit the Golden Hills RC&D Plant Identification website, which also has recordings and other resources from previous classes. Cottage Foods & Home Baking Laws Informational Meeting Staying in house, Golden Hills RC&D is partnering with Cass County Extension and Cass County Local Food Policy Council to host an informational meeting about the changing cottage food and home baking laws. Food safety expert Kurt Rueber from the Iowa Food Bureau will be there to inform and answer questions. The event, free and open to the public, is on February 4 from 1pm to 4pm at the Cass County Community Center (805 W 10th St, Atlantic, IA 50022). Writing the Loess Hills: Letting Landscape Guide the Pen Kelly Madigan, an author and Loess Hills resident, is leading an online writing workshop sponsored by Larksong Writers Place. Kelly will use a variety of examples, prompts, and exercises to explore the craft of writing and the unique Loess Hills landform. The workshop will meet on Zoom on five Tuesdays in January and February. Register on Larksong to enroll in the class. Thursday Night Trivia at Keg Creek Brewing Company Keep warm with a heated session of trivia at Keg Creek Brewing Company, located just off the Loess Hills National Scenic Byway. Test your knowledge of Netflix, sports, game shows, geography, movies, history, superheroes, and more. Enjoy one of Keg Creek’s delicious brews as you compete for prizes. Held every Thursday at 7pm at the brewery near Glenwood (22381 221st St., Glenwood, IA). Dorothy Pecaut Nature Center If the winter tree identification hike sounds too chilly for you, head inside the Dorothy Pecaut Nature Center for activities focused on conservation and environmental issues. Coffee and Conservation is a monthly series with a presentation and chat about conservation issues; an optional outdoor activity follows the presentation. Participation is limited, so pre-register by calling (712) 258-0838 or emailing [email protected]. The nature center also hosts yoga classes, children’s programming, and other indoor events; check the calendar of events on the Woodbury Parks website. Lewis & Clark Interpretive Center and Betty Strong Encounter Center Also on the Loess Hills National Scenic Byway in Sioux City, the Lewis & Clark Interpretive Center and Betty Strong Encounter Center offers winter programming for all ages. There are activities for kids on Saturdays, from making STEM-inspired snowflakes to learning how to use a compass. Sunday programs offer a diverse course of live events, including a “Winter on the Prairie” presentation by historian Russ Gifford and musical performances by Jill Miller and Bob Bovee. Check the center’s upcoming events for full programming. Council Bluffs UnleashCB has two great articles with recommendations for indoor activities in the Council Bluffs metro area: Indoor Activities in Council Bluffs and Winter Family Activities in Council Bluffs. Read them to check out their suggestions! Art Galleries, Museums, Theaters, and Other Attractions Winter is a great time to explore the art galleries, museums, theaters, and other indoor attractions on the three scenic byways in western Iowa. Below is a sampling of these attractions on the Loess Hills National Scenic Byway, Western Skies Scenic Byway, and Glacial Trail Scenic Byway. Loess Hills National Scenic Byway Orpheum Theatre - 528 Pierce Street , Sioux City, IA 51101 - For showtimes, check their web page - The Sioux City Orpheum was designed by the nationally known Chicago firm of Rapp & Rapp and constructed in 1927 as part of the Orpheum Circuit. The major developer and promoter for the theatre was local Sioux City businessman, Arthur Sanford. It was the largest theatre in the State of Iowa at its time. This beautifully restored 1927 theatre offers a variety of entertainment events, including the symphony, Broadway shows, movies and concerts. Sioux City Art Center - 225 Nebraska Street, Sioux City, Iowa 51101 - Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday 10:00-4:00; Thursday 10:00-9:00, Sunday 1:00-4:00 - The Sioux City Art Center's mission is to bring the excitement of the visual arts to the community and its visitors through education, exhibitions, and permanent collection programming. Its iconic three-storied glass atrium houses permanent collection and traveling exhibitions, the Junior League Hands On! Gallery, and the Grant Wood Corn Room Mural, restored from the Martin Hotel Ballroom. Art Classes for all ages are held in the Art Center's Gilchrist Learning Center. Sioux City Public Museum - 607 4th Street, Sioux City, IA 51101 - Tuesday-Saturday, 10:00–5:00; Sunday, 1:00–5:00 - The Sioux City Public Museum is a museum about the history and culture of Sioux City, Iowa. Displays include a video about the city's history, Native American artifacts, pioneer artifacts, historic transportation vehicles, agriculture, industry, geology and fossils. Sergeant Floyd River Museum & Welcome Center - 1000 Larsen Park Road, Sioux City, IA 51103 - Daily, 10:00–4:00 - Displays feature rare photos, artifacts and dioramas. Lewis & Clark information, tri-state information, and a gift shop. Drop Zone Family Fun Center - 3840 Stadium Dr., Sioux City - Tuesday–Thursday, 4:00–7:00; Friday, 12:00PM–8:00PM; Saturday, 12:00–9:00; Sunday, 12:00–7:00 - Drop Zone Family Fun Center provides amazing fun for the entire family! The 23,300 square foot building features Open Jump Trampolines, Trampoline Dodgeball and Basketball, Ninja Course, Laser Tag, Redemption Games with full redemption prize counter, Toddler Area with a Kangaroo jumper and three-level jungle gym, “Time Out” Lounge with our 4D Virtual Reality, and a Snack Bar with plenty of food and beverage options! There are also party rooms to celebrate a birthday or group event! Tilt Studio Family Fun Center - 4480 Sergeant Road, Sioux City, IA 51106 - Monday–Thursday, 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM; Friday–Saturday, 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM; Sunday, 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM - Tilt Studio Family Fun Center in the Southern Hills Mall is action-packed fun for all ages. Arcade, laser tag, parties, and so much more. Play an exciting game of laser tag, bumper cars, or challenge everyone to a round of mini bowling or mini-golf. Grab a snack before playing your favorite video, ticket, or merchandise games. Pizza Ranch FunZone Arcade - 3116 Floyd Blvd, Sioux City, IA 51108 - Daily, 11:00–8:30 - Play the most exciting games and win sweet prizes at the Sioux City Pizza Ranch FunZone Arcade. And when you’ve worked up an appetite, refuel with pizza and the buffet. RailsWest Railroad Museum - 1512 S Main St, Council Bluffs, IA - Saturdays 11:00–4:00, Sundays 1:00–4:00 - Restored 1899 Rock Island Depot features railroad artifacts, Pottawattamie County artifacts and multiple railcars guests can walk through. The "Freedom with Honor" Eagle of Honor bronze sculpture was installed and dedicated in a public plaza adjacent to the museum in late 2015. Group tours by appointment. Listed on the National Historic Register. Union Pacific Museum - 200 Pearl Street, Council Bluffs, IA 51503 - Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, 10:00–6:00 - Located in historic downtown Council Bluffs, Iowa, this museum is a great place for friends and family to come and learn about the Union Pacific Railroad. The museum is housed in a historic Carnegie Library building. Visitors can explore an extensive compilation of items from 150 years of our nation's western history, including artifacts, photographs, documents and equipment. Mills County Historical Museum - 20 Lake Drive, Glenwood, IA 51534 - Thursday & Friday, 10:00–2:00; Saturday, 10:00–4:00; Sunday, 1:00–4:00 - Journey through 150 years of history when you visit the Mills County Historical Museum in Glenwood, IA. The museum showcases a time when houses, farms, railroads, businesses, and schools were being developed in the area. As you tour the museum, you can see changes in transportation and agriculture along with the progress of family life through home furnishings and clothing displays. You can also discover the histories of multiple communities within the county, including Glenwood, Malvern, Mineola, Pacific Junction, Hastings, Emerson, Henderson, and Silver City. The museum showcases seven historic buildings from the county that you can explore. The main museum has undergone recent remodeling and features two floors of displays, including the largest showcase of Prehistoric Native American artifacts in the state. The other outbuildings include a reconstructed peg barn, community jail, relocated outhouse, rural one-room schoolhouse, large machinery hall, and Burlington caboose. Western Skies Scenic Byway Rialto Movie Theater - 405 E Erie St Missouri Valley, IA 51555 - For opening hours and showtimes, check Facebook - Small-town cinema with small-town prices: $7 adults, $5 seniors 62+, $5 children under 12. Best to call the Rialto and confirm showings and times. Concessions are available. Shelby County Historical Museum - 1805 Morse Avenue, Harlan, IA 51537 - Monday-Friday, 8:00–4:00 - Explore thousands of artifacts in the four building complex and discover the rich history of Shelby County through exhibits, programs, and events. Harlan Community Theatre - 1208 Cyclone Ave Harlan, IA 51537 - For showtimes, check their Facebook page - The Harlan Community Theatre will be putting on four showings of “Boeing, Boeing”: February 3 and 4 in Harlan, February 7 in Manning, and February 10 in Dunlap. Check the Facebook page for updates on ticket availability and showtimes. Harlan Theatre - 621 Court St Harlan, IA 51537 - For opening hours and showtimes, check Facebook - Featuring digital sound & projection on all 4 screens and small-town prices Egg Krate - 2104 Broadway, Elk Horn, IA, United States, 51531 - Monday-Saturday 10:00–5:00, Sunday 12:00–4:00 - Once known as an egg candling business, the Egg Krate has antiques, collectibles, vintage items, furniture, tools, Danish baked goods, local honey, jams, and more! Danish Windmill & Welcome Center - 4038 Main St, Elk Horn, IA - Monday-Saturday 9:00–4:00, Sunday 12:00–4:00 - The Danish Windmill is a working museum, showing visitors the inside workings of a historic mill built in Nørre Snede, Denmark, in 1848. It was brought to America in pieces where it was lovingly rebuilt and restored to working order in the Danish village of Elk Horn by community volunteers in 1976 in honor of their Danish ancestors. Museum of Danish America - 2212 Washington Street, Elk Horn, IA 51531 - Monday-Saturday 10:00–4:00, Sunday 1:00–4:00 - Three floors of exhibits, gift shop, 35-acre prairie restoration park with interpretive signage, walking trail, early 1900s homesteader's cabin, Danish outdoor fitness equipment, and genealogy center. Rose Theater - 318 Broadway Street, Audubon, IA 50025 - For opening hours and showtimes, check their web page or Facebook - Fully renovated movie theater that is open Friday, Saturday and Sunday by volunteers. All movies are $4 (cash only). Concessions are also available. Audubon Recreation Center - 703 Southside Ave, Audubon, IA 50025 - Tuesday–Thursday, 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM; Friday–Saturday, 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM; Sunday, 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM - If you are looking to shed a few pounds or like bowling a few rounds, Audubon Recreation Center provides a unique all-in-one experience. With a half court basketball area, racquetball court, fitness classes, eight-lanes of bowling, soft play area, and arcade you are guaranteed to have a great time! Art on State - 320 State St, Guthrie Center, IA 50115 - Tuesday-Friday 10:00–5:00, Saturday 10:00–2:00 - Artisan gallery and gift shop with artwork on display and for sale made by Guthrie County Arts Council member artists. Pottery, painting, photography, jewelry, woodworking and metalwork, as well as local honey and Iowa wines are all available in the store. Various classes scheduled throughout the year. The Stuart Fremont Theatre - 124 N Fremont Street, Stuart, IA 50220 - Daily from 6pm-9pm, as well as 1pm-4pm on weekends - The Stuart Fremont Theatre shows first-run movies in Stuart. Stop in for a big theater experience in a small-town atmosphere. The theater features one full-size screen and seats 90 people with top-of-the-line digital projection and 7.1 surround sound. For showtimes, check their website. Glacial Trail Scenic Byway Prairie Heritage Center - 4931 Yellow Ave., Peterson, IA 51047 - Tuesday-Friday 9:00–4:00, Saturday 1:00–4:00 - Indoor archery is back this winter. Located in the basement at the Prairie Heritage Center from 6-8pm starting January 31. All materials will be provided for this free activity. Wonderland Theater
- 110 S Main St, Paullina, IA 51046 - For opening hours and showtimes, check their web page or Facebook page - The Wonderland Theater is a non-profit, volunteer-operated movie theater seating 186. The theater was built in 1910. Come experience a movie in this retro building! Admission is just $5 for adults and $3 for kids. Plus, bargain deals on pop and popcorn. Movies show Friday, Saturday, and Sunday nights at 7:30 p.m. Sanford Museum and Planetarium - 117 E Willow St., Cherokee, IA 51012 - Monday–Friday 9:00–5:00, Saturday–Sunday 12:00–5:00 - The Sanford Museum and Planetarium has exhibits and activities on a variety of subjects including: archaeology, art, astronomy, geology, history, natural nistory, and paleontology. There is a planetarium and a variety of public programs, which are held every Sunday and Wednesday at 4:00 p.m. Admission is free. American 3 Theatre - 108 East Main Street, Cherokee, IA - For opening hours and showtimes, check their web page or Facebook page
While winter weather arrived to western Iowa weeks ago, the first day of winter is officially here. In the Northern Hemisphere, December 21 is marked by the winter solstice, when the Earth is at its maximum tilt away from the sun resulting in the least amount of sunlight during the year. While the days get longer from now until the summer solstice, temperatures will remain cold (and colder!) until spring thaws the frozen soil, ponds, and creeks of western Iowa. For those that relish the winter wonderland of western Iowa, the next few months are a delight. If you shudder at the thought of Old Man Winter, however, get cozy with a cup of cocoa and give winter a chance as there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy the snowy season along western Iowa’s three scenic byways.
Mount Crescent Ski Area
Perhaps the epicenter of winter outdoor recreation on the Loess Hills National Scenic Byway, the Mount Crescent Ski Area is ready for a historic season. Pottawattamie County Conservation recently acquired the property as part of its plan to create one of the largest nature areas in the state. The 2022-23 winter season marks 61 years since Mount Crescent first opened and new snowmaking machines guarantee a 100% chance of snow from December through March. Pottawattamie County has committed to increasing snow-making and grooming frequency throughout the season as well as reducing wait times to improve the customer experience. Opening day for the 2022-23 season is December 21st. With the exception of Christmas Day, Mount Crescent will be open every day over the holidays beginning on December 21st from 10am until 5pm (9am to 3pm on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve). After the new year, the ski area will be open for night skiing on Wednesdays and Thursdays from 4pm to 9pm, in addition to extended hours on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays (check the winter hours calendar).
Season passes are available for purchase on Mount Crescent’s website; Pottawattamie County residents receive a 25% discount on season passes and lift tickets. You can also pre-purchase single-day lift tickets, equipment rentals, ski and snowboard lessons, and reserve sledding passes (zibob sledding every other Saturday from 6pm - 9pm beginning in January) on the website.
Hitchcock Nature Center
Pottawattamie County Conservation has long-term plans to connect Mount Crescent Ski Area with Hitchcock Nature Center, where more winter activities await visitors. Hiking is popular at Hitchcock, and the ten-mile trail system creates a variety of options for hikers to explore the rugged terrain of the Loess Hills in winter. There are several guided hikes scheduled throughout winter at Hitchcock Nature Center. Naturalist Dustin Clayton will lead the annual Winter Solstice Night Hike on December 21st at 6:30pm. The hike is free with valid park entry or membership. Another hike on New Year’s Eve, starting at 6pm, offers the chance to ring in 2023 by viewing Omaha’s fireworks display far away from the crowds. Check Hitchcock’s calendar for more winter hikes.
Hiking isn’t the only activity on the trails at Hitchcock. The rugged topography and steep ridges make the park a sledding paradise. One of the trails in particular, The Chute, is notoriously steep but perfect for sledding in winter. All sledding at Hitchcock is at your own risk, so bring your own sled and please be mindful of other people on the trails.
While you must bring your own sled to Hitchcock, snowshoes are available for guest rental at the park’s Loess Hills Lodge. There must be at least four to six inches of snow on the ground to rent snowshoes. If you are new to snowshoeing, the environmental education team at Hitchcock has planned four “pop-up” classes in January and February to teach you the basics of snowshoeing. The classes are weather-dependent, so check the park’s calendar and social media for confirmation of dates.
Cone Park Sioux City
One hour north of Hitchcock Nature Center on the Loess Hills National Scenic Byway, Cone Park is the place for winter fun in Sioux City. The centerpiece of the park is the 83-foot tall tubing hill with a 700-foot run. There is also an ice skating rink, outdoor fire pit, and lodge to warm up with a hot drink before heading back up the carpet lift to the top of the hill for more tubing fun. Tubes are provided by Cone Park (outside tubes are not allowed) and ice skates are available to rent if you don’t have your own pair. Tubing sessions of three hours cost $10 and can be reserved, as some sessions do occasionally sell out. For a complete list of operating dates, hours, and rates, check out Cone Park’s website and Facebook page.
Winter Hiking
Start 2023 off on the right foot by joining one of several First Day Hikes in western Iowa. First Day Hikes are part of a nationwide initiative led by state parks around the United States to encourage people to get outdoors. There are several official First Day Hikes scheduled on or near western Iowa’s scenic byways. ​Friends Of The Loess Hills State Forest And Preparation Canyon State Park, Iowa DNR, and Golden Hills RC&D are partnering to host a First Day 5K Hike at the Pisgah Unit of the Loess Hills State Forest. The hike begins at 1pm on January 1, 2023, and will conclude with snacks and drinks at the Brent Olson Memorial Visitor Center (206 Polk Street in Pisgah). To participate in the hike, meet at 2047 145th Street south of Pisgah and park along the road.
The First Day Hike at Waubonsie State Park begins at 1pm at the Wa-Shawtee Lodge (2585 Waubonsie Park Rd, Hamburg IA 51640). The 2-mile hike will begin at Wa-Shawtee Lodge and wind off-trail through the woods of Waubonsie State Park and the Militia Hollow Wildlife Management Area. The Friends of Waubonsie will be supplying food and beverages before and after the hike.
At the northern end of the Loess Hills National Scenic Byway, Stone State Park in Sioux City will be hosting a First Day Hike at 10am on January 1st. Meet at the parking lot across from the park office (5001 Talbot Rd, Sioux City IA 51103) to join park staff for a short 45-minute moderate hike through the woods. Dress for weather and contact the park office (712-255-4698; [email protected]) with any questions.
​Two state parks along the Western Skies Scenic Byway will also be hosting First Day Hikes. Prairie Rose State Park near Harlan will hike around the east side of the lake, taking hikers through wooded areas, prairie, and across the hidden bridge. Meet at 4pm at the park office (680 Road M47, Harlan IA 51537). Springbrook State Park, near Guthrie Center, will hike to the highest point in the park, stopping at geologically and historically significant sites along the way and looking for signs of wildlife activity. Hot chocolate will be provided after the hike. The hike begins at 1pm and meets at the park house/office (2437 160th Rd, Guthrie Center IA 50115).
Continue hiking throughout winter in western Iowa by using the Loess Hills hiking guide developed by Golden Hills RC&D. Hiking in cold weather can be fun as long as you dress and pack accordingly. Dress in layers so that you can peel off a layer if you get overheated, then put it back on if you get chilled. Your base layer should be a wicking material to keep sweat off of your skin, while the second layer should be insulating to retain heat. The outer layer should protect you from wind and precipitation. Don’t forget to wear a hat to keep your head warm. Winter is also hunting season, so wear at least one item of clothing that is blaze orange (don’t forget blaze orange for your dog!).
Sledding
Locals know their area best and each community has its own popular sledding hill. The steep ridges of the Loess Hills and the rolling swells on the Western Skies Scenic Byway and Glacial Trail Scenic Byway make for great sledding. Some great spots for sledding include, but are not limited to, Vincent Bluff State Preserve in Council Bluffs and Sertoma Park and Grandview Park, both in Sioux City, as well as the aforementioned The Chute at Hitchcock Nature Center in Honey Creek. ​Cross-country Skiing Many of the hiking trails in western Iowa can also be used by cross-country skiers in winter. While most, if not all, of the trails are not groomed for cross-country skiing in the winter, the intrepid explorer can still strap on their ski boots and cut a path through the powder after a fresh snow. The Wabash Trace Nature Trail is an excellent option for cross-country skiing, as the level grade and trailhead accessibility make it easy to get out and explore the trail during the winter. Bird Watching Bird watching might not come to mind as a winter activity, but in fact it is a wonderful winter activity for several reasons. Around 20% of Iowa birds overwinter in the state, so while there aren’t as many birds to watch during other seasons, winter does provide plenty of bird watching opportunities. One of the main reasons bird watching is great in winter is the lack of foliage makes it easier to spot birds in trees and shrubs. Additionally, many birds change their feathers in winter, so you can test your bird identification skills. Northern cardinals, blue jays, juncos, northern flickers, woodpeckers, owls, hawks, and eagles are just some of the common birds that overwinter in Iowa.
Western Skies Scenic Byway connects some of the best birding areas in Iowa and has many places to see birds. Check out our Western Skies Birding Trail page with information about birding the Western Skies Scenic Byway. There are two Bird Conservation Areas on the Loess Hills National Scenic Byway: Loess Hills Bird Conservation Area in Harrison and Monona counties, and Broken Kettle Bird Grasslands in Plymouth County.
​A great way to join a bird watching group is to participate in a Christmas Bird Count. The Audubon Christmas Bird count is the nation's longest-running community science bird project. It is a census performed annually by volunteers between December 14th and January 5th. Each count is performed in a 15-mile “count circle” by at least ten volunteers that break into small groups and follow assigned routes, while some watch bird feeders. The National Audubon Society administers the counts and uses the population data to inform their conservation programs. To learn more about the Audubon Christmas Bird Count, check out the Christmas Bird Count Compiler Resources, where you can search for a Christmas Bird Count in your area via this map.
The nearest Christmas Bird Counts to western Iowa’s scenic byways will be held in Cass County and Ida County, respectively. The Cass County Christmas Bird Count is scheduled for December 28 from 8am to 4:30pm at Cold Spring State Park near Lewis (south of Atlantic). Contact Cass County Conservation for more information.
​ The Loess Hills Audubon Society will host a Christmas Bird Count on December 31 at Moorhead Park in Ida Grove. The count begins at 8am and will conclude at 3:30pm. Chili will be provided for lunch, while pie and ice cream will be available after the count has concluded. For more information, contact Don Poggensee (712-369-3454; [email protected]). Ida Grove is a half-hour drive east of the Loess Hills National Scenic Byway and one hour south of Glacial Trail Scenic Byway. ![]() The Western Skies Scenic Byway, dedicated in 1998, is among the first state-designated scenic byways in Iowa. Western Skies offers travelers several easy opportunities to venture off the beaten path. The Byway is 142 miles long, traveling through Harrison, Shelby, Audubon and Guthrie Counties, including 14 rural towns. It is easily accessible to travelers from both Interstates 80 and 29. The byway allows visitors to explore and take in a scenic journey along Iowa’s landscapes of rolling hills, working farmsteads, and tranquil small town life. Below are several unique places to stay for visitors exploring Western Skies. Willow Lake Recreation Area cabins, Woodbine (Harrison County) The Willow Lake Recreation Area near Woodbine has 6 beautiful rental cabins that sleep from 4-14 people. The cabins get fully booked on summer weekends, so move fast to reserve a cabin or visit during the week or shoulder season. A new nature center is under construction at Willow Lake, which is a popular fishing spot that also has more than six miles of hiking trails. Plan your visit to coincide with Woodbine’s Applefest on the last Saturday in September. Mitzi's Place, Woodbine (Harrison County) If the cabins at Willow Lake Recreation Area are booked, or if you simply want to experience the simple life in small-town western Iowa, book a stay at Mitzi’s Place. Just steps from downtown Woodbine, this cottage has been impeccably renovated while keeping its Victorian charm. The rocking chairs on the beautiful front porch are excellent choices to spend a summer or fall evening. Check the Airbnb listing for more information and availability. Seeley Creek Cabin Getaway and Hunting Lodge, Guthrie Center (Guthrie County) Nestled on 40 acres complete with a fully stocked fishing pond and walking trail, the Seeley Creek Cabin Getaway is perfect for a romantic weekend or a hunting trip with family and friends. Located just south of the Western Skies Scenic Byway, the cabin is near Seely Creek Timber and Sutcliff Woodland. Visit in fall and pick your own apples from the surrounding woods or enjoy a cozy weekend next to the fireplace with a good book while snow falls outside. Check Navey’s listing on Airbnb for more information and availability. Schafer Century Barn, Adair (Guthrie County) The Schafer Century Barn is an immaculately restored 1915 barn located on a seventh-generation family farm. Guests can rent the barn when it is not being used as a wedding venue. Its location is less than ten minutes from Highway 44, making it a perfect base to explore the Western Skies Scenic Byway as well as the White Pole Road Scenic Byway. Hackberry Bend Primitive Woodland Tent Site, Stuart (Guthrie County) Hang hammocks around the fire pit at Hackberry Bend, a private camping site just minutes from Interstate 80. You won’t have to hike your supplies in to this primitive woodland campsite, as parking is only fifty feet away from the leveled mulch tent pad. The tent pad can fit a four-person tent, while the surrounding trees can accommodate three to four hammocks. Pets are welcome (on leash)! Check the Airbnb listing for available dates. The Rookery Cottage, Coon Rapids (Carroll County) Like nearby Whiterock Conservancy, the Rookery Cottage is within a short drive of the Western Skies Scenic Byway. The rustic cottage hosts up the six guests. The proximity to the byway, Whiterock Conservancy, and the Middle Raccoon River Valley provides visitors with plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities. Check the Airbnb listing for more information, photos, and availability. Taylor Hill Lodge, Audubon (Audubon County) Taylor Hill Lodge welcomes guests to stay in an English barn built in the 1890s by Grandpa Taylor. Six guest rooms are available in the rolling hills just three miles north of Audubon. The lodge has been transformed into a modern bed and breakfast while maintaining the barn’s Midwestern charm. Local artist Clint Hansen designed the stained-glass windows. The lodge is ideally located for travelers from Omaha or Des Moines, as it sits halfway between the two cities. Check the website for more information and reservations. Garst Historic Farmhouse and other properties, Coon Rapids (Carroll County) Whiterock Conservancy is not on the Western Skies Scenic Byway, however, the short fifteen-minute drive makes it an ideal place to stay while you explore the byway’s attractions and communities. There are several places to stay at Whiterock, including the Garst Farmhouse, which hosted Soviet Premier Nikita Khrushchev in 1959. Other options include a log cabin and several quaint cottages and farmhouses. Check the website for more information. Rock N Ranch Events & Campground, Menlo (Guthrie County) Travelers need to follow five miles of gravel roads to reach Rock N Ranch, a rustic ranch just south of Beaver Creek. The ranch is a retirement dream and has grown from a few tent sites to include cabins ranging from a barebones cabin for hunters to heated and air conditioned cabins. Choose from four cabins and several tent sites that are available on the Hipcamp listing. Firefly Creek Ranch, Guthrie Center (Guthrie County) A former county health facility, this property sat vacant until the current owners came up with a plan to turn it into a non-profit art, community, and retreat center. There are only dispersed RV and tent sites available at Firefly Creek Ranch, but pitching your tent on a farm is a unique experience. Farm animals and friendly folks will make your stay at Firefly Creek Ranch warm and welcoming. Check the listing on Hipcamp for more information.
Dog Creek Park grain bins, Sutherland (O’Brien County) There are two grain bins at Dog Creek Park, aptly named Beans and Corn, where up to twelve guests can enjoy the park located directly on the Glacial Trail Scenic Byway. The grain bins are available to rent, with a two-night minimum, from May through December. Each grain bin has a spiral staircase that gives access to the deck on the second floor, offering breathtaking views of the lake and Little Sioux River Valley. Uncle Tom's Cabin at River Road Conservation Area, Cherokee (Cherokee County) Although not on the Glacial Trail Scenic Byway, this cabin south of Cherokee is a short drive away. The cabin is named after Tom Nelson, whose wife donated the cabin surrounding acreage to Cherokee County after he passed away, creating River Road Conservation Area. Hiking and cross-country skiing trails, fishing ponds, river access, and hunting make Uncle Tom’s Cabin a perfect getaway during any time of year—it’s also pet-friendly! Contact Cherokee County Conservation and the cabin’s website for information and reservations. Winery Loft at Inspiration Vines & Wines, Linn Grove (Buena Vista County) InnSpiration Vines & Wines started as a bed and breakfast in 2005 and expanded into a winery in 2011. The Winery Loft hosts up to four guests in the second-floor space above the wine tasting room. Floor-to-ceiling windows look out on splendid views of the pond and timber. Hiking trails connect to several vineyards in the area and the nearby Little Sioux River offers more outdoor recreation opportunities. Enjoy the fire pit and patio as you sample InnSpiration wines. Generations Bed & Breakfast, Sutherland (O’Brien County) Just minutes from Glacial Trail Scenic Byway, Generations Bed & Breakfast offers a slice of life in rural western Iowa. This cozy cottage has multiple bedrooms to choose and large deck to enjoy those famous Iowa sunsets. Make sure you check out Bogenrief Studios during your stay in Sutherland. The Morning Glory B&B, Cherokee (Cherokee County) Cherokee is the largest town near the Glacial Trail Scenic Byway and there are several lodging options in town. The Morning Glory B&B is a beautifully restored Victorian mansion near Main Street. After a busy day exploring Glacial Trail, relax in a rocking chair on the spacious front porch. Check the Airbnb listing for more picture and availability. Library Loft Apartment - Left Wing & Right Wing, Cherokee (Cherokee County) What would bookstore owners call the apartment above their shop? The Library Loft, of course! Stay in one (or both) of the wings, each beautifully renovated and designed. High ceilings, large windows, and original hardwood give the lofts plenty of character. After driving the Byway all day, the ability to walk to shops and restaurants will be much appreciated. Check the hosts’ Airbnb profile for more information on each loft. Lovely Loft in Cherokee on Historic Main Street, Cherokee (Cherokee County) Another loft on Main Street in Cherokee, this one just as lovely as the previous. If you need more space, the host has another Airbnb listing that can accommodate six guests. Check their profile for more information. Buffalo Ridge Barn, Cherokee (Cherokee County) Another option in Cherokee is the Buffalo Ridge Barn, located on the north edge of town. A former horse barn, it has been converted into a lovely guest house that is available to rent on Airbnb. Games, puzzles, and a small library make this an ideal option for families or groups that are exploring Glacial Trail together. Dude and Lori Ganger, the owners, have decorated the barn with horse memorabilia and antiques as a reminder of days gone by. Check their listing for availability. If we've missed a unique lodging option on Western Skies Scenic Byway or Glacial Trail Scenic Byway that should be added to this list, please contact Seth Brooks at [email protected].
![]() Named after one of the most unique landforms in North America, the Loess Hills National Scenic Byway spans 220 miles of paved roads with an additional 185 miles of optional excursion loops. With so much ground to cover, travelers will need places to stay in order to fully appreciate the natural and cultural heritage the Byway offers. There are numerous lodging options along the Byway; below are some of the most unique places to stay to make your trip on the Loess Hills National Scenic Byway an unforgettable experience. Start planning a trip for next year or escape cabin fever with a winter weekend getaway! Five Ridge Prairie Camping Cabin, Westfield (Plymouth County) Perched atop a ridge overlooking the Missouri River Valley, the camping cabin at Five Ridge Prairie State Preserve is available year-round, weather permitting. The one-room cabin sleeps four and can only be reached on foot, requiring guests to hike in with their supplies, including water. The cabin has a primitive bathroom, propane heat, and a solar power system for indoor lighting. Enjoy the cozy cabin in winter, come in early spring for blooming pasque flowers, or visit in fall as the prairie grasses turn rusty red. The sweeping views and solitude are worth the strenuous hike up the ridge. For more information or to make a reservation, visit the Five Ridge Prairie website or call Plymouth County Conservation at (712) 947-4270. Chocolate Mansion and Linda Sue Manor, Sioux City (Woodbury County) Two neighboring boutique hotels, Chocolate Mansion and Linda Sue Manor, offer travelers on the Loess Hills National Scenic Byway the opportunity to spend the night in beautiful Victorian-style mansions in the heart of Sioux City. Both are filled with antiques and furniture honoring their history. Sit on the porch on a balmy summer evening, stroll the garden, and take a walk in the historic neighborhood. For more information, refer to each hotel's website. RT Reese Homestead Cabin, Turin (Monona County) In order to ensure the land would be properly cared for and available to the public, the Reese family donated part of their homestead to Monona County. Guests of up to eight can stay at the ADA-accessible cabin on the homestead, which features restored prairie and wetlands and is surrounded by 713 acres of public land owned by Monona County Conservation and the Iowa DNR. Contact Monona County Conservation at (712) 433-2400 for more information or to reserve the cabin. LoHi Bells: Loess Hills Basecamp Tent and Scout’s Point, Onawa (Monona County) Airbnb hosts Kelly and Doug have set up two double-walled canvas tents on their property east of Onawa. Their property borders the Turin Wildlife Management Area, giving guests access to over 1,000 acres of wilderness to explore. The tents are not available during the winter; instead, book a stay during warmer months to hike the surrounding hills during the day, then gaze at the starry night sky after sitting around a toasty campfire. Check their Airbnb listings for more information and pictures. Jordan Creek Aronia Berry Farm and Jordan Creek Farms, Soldier (Monona County) Two Airbnb listings near Soldier, just ten minutes from the Loess Hills National Scenic Byway, offer visitors the chance to unplug and unwind along Jordan Creek. Both properties are on the family farm of Terry and Shirley Weldon. Their daughters Vicki, Cyndy, and Patti have all been involved in building houses on the property, two of which are open to guests. The artwork of their late son Jeffrey adorns the properties. Vicki has opened her house to guests, where she has grown Aronia berries for five years. Vicki’s house is typically booked, and if that is the case, Patti welcomes visitors to stay at another house on the farm. Both listings have earned glowing reviews from previous guests. There is no WiFi or TV, but the surrounding countryside and pristine night sky offer plenty of entertainment. Loess Hills Hideaway Cabins & Campground, Moorhead (Monona County) Nestled in the woods surrounding Savery Pond, the Loess Hills Hideaway Cabins & Campground offer an ideal escape to explore the nearby units of the Loess Hills State Forest as well as Preparation Canyon State Park. Seven cabins, which sleep between four and seven guests, and six RV/tent sites are available year-round for individuals, couples, hunting groups, retreats, reunions, and families (including your house-trained dogs!). WiFi is not available, so if you are looking to disconnect, this beautiful and quiet slice of western Iowa is the perfect destination. For more information, check the Loess Hills Hideaway website or call (402) 660-3267. Grain Bin Getaway, Missouri Valley (Harrison County) Grain bins are not an uncommon sight on the Loess Hill National Scenic Byway, but have you ever considered staying in one? Architect Brent Nie and his wife Christy have repurposed an existing grain bin into a unique getaway. The property sits at the foot of the Loess Hills with the broad floodplain of the Missouri river to the west. Sunsets are spectacular and the hosts recommend hiking up the ridge behind the bins for breath taking views. Google “Grain Bin Getaway Missouri Valley Iowa” or check their Airbnb listing for more information and photos. Cheese Cave Apartment, Honey Creek (Pottawattamie County) Cows aren’t the only ungulates that graze the Loess Hills, as you will learn first-hand after a stay at this Airbnb listing. Janna has converted part of this working farm into a “cheese cave” apartment to allow guests a pastoral experience less than a half hour from the Omaha/Council Bluffs metropolitan area. Help milk the sheep in the morning (depending on the season), hike the nearby trails in the afternoon, then enjoy a relaxing evening with a bottle of wine and fresh cheese. Contact Janna through her Airbnb listing for more information. The Arrowhead Lodge, Council Bluffs (Pottawattamie County) The "quirky and clean" Arrowhead Lodge offers guests a unique resting stop as they explore the Loess Hills National Scenic Byway. The lodge is located in a suburban neighborhood on the outskirts of Council Bluffs, but you'd never notice it with the forested surroundings and the two goats that call the backyard home. Dogs are welcome but need approval and an additional fee. Check the Hipcamp listing for availability. Art Church, Malvern (Mills County) Your dreams will be divine during a stay at the Art Church, a former place of worship turned into an art studio by a native artist. Zach Jones purchased the desanctified church in 2012 and turned the space into his working art studio. The former downstairs studio is now available on Airbnb, which has garnered rapturous reviews. Guests are welcome to visit the current studio on the main floor, where Zach has painted a mural on the former church’s ceiling. Check out Zach’s other listings on Airbnb in Malvern, including Studio 414 and Art House, which is scheduled to open in 2023. Malvern Depot, Malvern (Mills County) Whether you are driving the Loess Hills National Scenic Byway or riding the Wabash Trace Nature Trail, make a stop in Malvern to stay at this former railroad depot. The bunkhouse can host up to five people in the charming and vibrant town of Malvern. The depot’s location right on the trail is perfect for bike enthusiasts or travelers looking for small-town Iowa hospitality. Check the Depot's Airbnb listing for availability. Former Sugar Clay Winery, Thurman (Fremont County) The devastating floods of 2019 affected many communities and businesses along the Missouri River Valley. Due to decreased traffic as a result of closed interstate exits, the owners of Sugar Clay Winery unfortunately decided to shutter their business. The former winery and vineyard, however, is open to guests as an Airbnb property. The modern cabin has a spacious deck and wooden walkway underneath the forest canopy, making it the perfect secluded sanctuary as you explore the southwestern section of the Loess Hills National Scenic Byway. Check the Airbnb listing for availability. Horse Creek Adventures, Sidney (Fremont County) Disconnect for a weekend, or longer, at Horse Creek Adventures near Sidney. The 170-acre ranch offers RV sites and off-the-grid cabins; you can also pitch a tent anywhere on the ranch, "by the pond, on top of the hill, or in a valley." Check the ranch's listing on Hipcamp. If you want to bring your dogs, make sure you inquire first with Horse Creek Adventures to get the okay. If we've missed a unique lodging option on the Loess Hills Scenic Byway that should be added to this list, please contact Seth Brooks at [email protected].
Mary Lou's retirement, Giving Tuesday, and more...
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Address712 South Highway Street
P.O. Box 189 Oakland, IA 51560 |
ContactPhone: 712-482-3029
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