Hiking in Iowa doesn't have to be an all-day adventure under the hot summer sun. If you're looking for some easy, scenic, short Iowa hikes, these kid-friendly trails will be your favorite new discovery! Head out for a quick stroll and pack a picnic lunch to get the most out of your time outdoors. They also happen to be some of the best hikes in Iowa.

1. Wildcat Cave Trail, Wildcat Cave Wildlife Area

The Wildcat Cave Trail is a unique 0.6-mile out and back trail near Eldora. Follow the river and explore the cave with your kids, who will love this exciting adventure. The Wildcat Cave Trail is one of the most scenic hikes in Iowa.

2. Table Rock Loop, Ledges State Park

The Table Rock Loop is another 0.6-mile trail that takes you through the unique geological formations of Ledges State Park. In the spring and summer, this trail comes alive with beautiful wildflowers. Table Rock Loop is one of the best kid-friendly hikes in Iowa.

3. Bridal Veil Trail, Pikes Peak State Park

The Bridal Veil Trail takes you just about one mile out and back through Pikes Peak State Park. Enjoy a great overlook of the Mississippi River and a boardwalk descent towards a waterfall that you can walk behind. Bridal Veil Trail is one of the most scenic and easy hikes in Iowa.

4. Hidden Prairie Nature Trail, Kuehn Conservation Area

This super short, 0.3-mile loop trail is a stunning wildflower paradise. You'll also be able to see birds and wildlife, and this beautiful conservation area is full of short gems like this. Kuehn Conservation Area in Iowa is an amazing park to explore.

5. George Wyth Mine Trail, George Wyth State Park

The scenic George Wyth Mine Trail is a 0.6-mile out and back trail that brings you to beautiful views and perfect birding outposts. The wildflowers that line the well-manicured trails are breathtaking. You can even take a short hike to a beach at George Wyth State Park in Iowa.

6. Yellow Banks Backpacker Trail, Polk County Park

This 0.8-mile loop trail is a great place to spot wildlife, even though you're not far from the big city! Birding and nature walks are common here, and children love to find hidden gems along the trail. This is a great place to go geocaching, too! This is one of the best kid-friendly hikes in Iowa.

7. Wildwood Loop, Ashton-Wildwood County Park

Picnic by the river on the Wildwood Loop! This secluded 0.7-mile trail is one of the most underrated in the state, and you're likely to have the whole place to yourself if you go early in the day. Learn more about Ashton-Wildwood County Park in Iowa on the My County Parks website.

8. Savannah Trail, Neal Smith Wildlife Refuge

The Savannah Trail is just over half a mile of scenic walking through Prairie at the Neal Smith Wildlife Refuge. The wildflowers and wildlife here are so fun to spot! The whole Wildlife Refuge is worth a visit, too, so plan to spend a bit of time checking it out. It's one of the most beautiful kid-friendly hikes in Iowa.

9. Greenbelt Lake Loop

The Greenbelt Lake Loop is just under a mile and you'll be treated to pretty waterfront views the whole way around. This is a great, easy hike for anyone and the perfect place to cool off on a hot day. Visit the Iowa Department of Natural Resources website to learn more.

These are some of the best hikes in Iowa you can take with kids. Each of these short Iowa trails is sure to make your day, and on a summer morning, you'll enjoy the cool air. For more of the best easy trails in Iowa, check out our list of easy, breezy summer hikes in Iowa that will overwhelm you with natural beauty.