Out-of-staters have the impression that Iowa is all flatlands and cornfields - but they're wrong. We may not have mountains, but we have plenty more to show for! From the dazzling 300-foot-tall bluffs of the Upper Iowa River, to the steep and rolling Loess Hills, here are 7 epic cliffs and bluffs in Iowa.
Next time someone argues that everything in Iowa is flat, just show them this. Better yet, tell them to try hiking or climbing up one of these cliffs or bluffs - they will find out very soon just how "flat" Iowa is.
Lots of Iowans have visited Spook Cave or Maquoketa Caves State Park, but have you ever heard of Crystal Lake Cave? This smaller, quieter cave outside of Dubuque is one of the most fascinating destinations and one of the best caves in Iowa. Come along as we show you why you've simply got to plan a visit! And don't forget your camera to get some incredible shots below the surface of the earth.
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Crystal Lake Cave was discovered in the late 1800s, and opened to the public in 1932.
The stalactites and stalagmites here are continually growing. If it's hanging from the ceiling, it's a stalactite. If it's growing from the cave floor, it's a stalagmite.
All it takes is one visit to Crystal Lake Cave to see why Iowans have been coming here since the 1930s to see the wonders of natural science in person.
You can see an aerial view of the hills surrounding Crystal Lake Cave on the cave website, but nothing beats seeing it in person.
Crystal Lake Cave typically opens for weekend tours in early May, and after Labor Day it is open daily. To learn more about taking Crystal Lake Cave tours, their location, and their hours of operation, be sure to check out the Crystal Lake Cave website, as well as the Crystal Lake Cave LLC Facebook page.
Have you ever been to this exciting attraction? If so, what was your favorite part? Do you have any great Crystal Lake Cave photos to share? We'd love to read about your experience in the comments section below!
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After you've spent a few hours exploring these wild caves, stop by Dubuque itself and learn about the oldest, most historic town in Iowa.
Thinking about taking an Iowa vacay soon? Then consider booking your flight via the Dollar Flight Club.
If you’re still in the mood for more Iowa adventures, take a look at this video:
While Iowa has many treasures in plain sight – such as rich soil, beautiful sunsets, wide open spaces, and friendly people – there are many other hidden gems in Iowa that are tucked away out of sight. And not just a little out of sight, either – we’re talking waaaay out of sight, “deep in the bowels of the earth” out of sight. We’re talking about Iowa’s one and only Crystal Lake Cave.
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Crystal Lake Cave near Dubuque is as unexpected as it is remarkable.
Visit the cave on weekends in September and October. The cave is also open by other days of the week by reservation. From November 1st to March 31st, it is open by reservation only.
Keep in mind that you might want to bring a jacket as you explore this underworld kingdom.
Guided tours take visitors deep into the cave, which is brimming with both beauty and history. Walkways and lighting have been installed to make it easier and safer for tourists of all ages to explore the cave.
During the guided tour, you'll learn about the cave’s history, geology, and the various formations found within.
Sturdy shoes are recommended for the tour and access is through a stairway, so no rolling strollers. No frame backpacks and only front-carry baby carriers are allowed.
What are you waiting for? Grab some friends, get group pricing, and make some memories underground. You can learn more about the cave by visiting the Crystal Lake Cave website. And make sure to like the Facebook page for this Iowa cave, so you can stay up to date on hours, specials, and more.
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Looking for accommodations near Crystal Lake Cave? Check out VRBO, which features accommodations for all budgets and tastes.
This cave isn’t the only hidden gem in Iowa tucked away beneath the Earth. Here are some other secret underground places in Iowa.
