loess hills scenic byway

We stopped at the visitor center of the Loess hills on our way to Fremont NE. We were the only ones there at the time. The lady in charge of the center was from the area so was very informative. The displays were very well done and explained the formation of the hills. Very glad we stopped.

We were driving in western Iowa on the Lincoln highway and saw the visitor center and in a split secon decision thought we would stop. Lots of information about Iowa travel and snacks, drinks and a back area with all sorts of historic farming equipment. Much better to stop here than a gas station to use the facilities and learn about the area.

We decided to go on a road trip to western Iowa's Loess Hills. We are fellow Iowans from eastern Iowa and had heard about the Loess Hills, but had never actually seen them. What a beautiful treat, several times we remarked we needed to pinch ourselves and ask "are we still in Iowa"? Just a beautiful part of our beautiful green state, with spectacular views. We traveled the end of June of 2014 and since we have had ample rainfall this year, the countryside and bypass were absolutely breathtaking. Ireland should not be the only nation that boasts of their beautiful green hills and countryside, Iowa ranks right up there too. Take a trip and see for yourselves, you won't be disappointed, and will appreciate another of God's masterpieces.

I have never hiked this part of Iowa but let me tell you, it was well worth the wait! The hills and surrounding are of the Loess Hills look like they are all folded or crinkled over. Think a giant Shar-pei dog and you see what I mean. The way the land formations are folded are just downright awesome/unique. Although I saw little deer, I did see many hawks; foxes and wild turkey. I started my journey at the platform outside of Pisgah, IA and hiked The Loop then hiked at Preparation Canyon. Both areas are well worth the drive! I will have to return here again.

There is no better way to spend a Sunday afternoon then driving the Loess Hills road. We pick it up on the north end in Sioux City and it takes you right in to council bluffs. From there it's a short hop over the river to Omahas old market and some of the best restaurants anywhere. The drive is packed with epic views and beautiful countryside but better than that are tons of 40 mph corners and rolling hills. I am fortunate to own a V8 converted Miata that makes this road a delight but even in a mini van it is a wonderful trip. People / vehicle watching is also great fun on the road. There are LOTS of motorcycles of course but also lots of restored cars and car club cruises. We have spotted everything from a rat rod to a 427 Cobra and every sort of cool car in between.. It takes a little different mind set because the goal is not the destination, it's the getting there. This is a trip best run with a mind to stop along the way to see the sights and visit with people. We usually go back on the interstate because it's a 2 hour drive just to get to the start of the trail for us. But even with 400 miles round trip in a day it's totally worth the effort!

The Loess Hills area in western Iowa is a beautiful place and a unique geological formation. I think it is especially gorgeous in the fall, but good for hiking (or cross country skiing) in any season. If you want peace and beauty, this is it.

Great Scenery on a not too long ride. You almost forget your in Iowa.Especially in the fall when the leaves are turning colors. Lots of places to stop and just enjoy the view and serenity of your surroundings.

there was great hiking very scenic walks I enjoyed the trails. very good views. I love to hike and this was a good one. we had a nice day there I wish I would have had more time to spend there. I will return again.

Just a nice lazy day drive for you and your loved ones. Lovely scenic drive in and around the Loess hills of Iowa. Stop and have a ice cream sundae at the old Stoner Drug Store in Hamburg while out and about.

It is just a pleasure to drive through these ancient hills. Great activity for a Sunday afternoon. It is wonderful to do this ride in the different seasons and watch the changes.

Beautiful drive-- lots of great scenery and some hiking trails.

road with great friends on motorcycles between Nebraska City and near Coucil Bluffs great scenery

The Loess Hills are gently beautiful with their rolling hills and combination of forest and prairie. The birding is great, especially if you take a drive closer to the Missouri River. We stayed at the Super 8 in Onawa, Iowa and had a great room - clean and with friendly staff. Onawa has it all, including a magnificent Arts & Crafts library which they have treated to a multi-million renovation and expansion. The trip to Onawa is worth a visit to the library alone, so experiencing the Loess Hills is a wonderful bonus. The Sylvan-Runkel Preserve was the highlight of the trip for me as we hiked along the tops of the hills and saw for miles upon miles. The architecture of the hills is never more evident than from the top of them looking for miles in all directions. A must see for natural history buffs.

Nice sweeping curves along the bluffs are great for riding. Most days the road has little traffic and on the busy days with a little luck you can still avoid the obnoxious engine revving bikers.

The winding road goes through some quaint little towns and the trees are pretty in the Fall.