Summertime is the perfect time to embark on the best hikes in Iowa. And those who are looking for new, scenic hikes in Iowa, peaceful trails, and kid-friendly hikes around Iowa will love any of the 11 trails listed below, which make for spectacular summer hikes in Iowa.

1. The High Trestle Trail, Madrid

This hike can be a 25-mile trek from Woodward to Ankeny, but most people just hike or bike the bridge and trails around Madrid. The views of the Des Moines river from this stunning architectural marvel are unlike any other in the state, making for one of the most scenic hikes in Iowa.

2. Ledges State Park, Boone

Also among the most scenic hikes in Iowa, Ledges State Park is home to some of the prettiest scenery in the state, and the stunning cliffs and rock formations that you'll see are breathtaking. Visit this park in any weather to enjoy the well maintained trails.

3. Lake MacBride State Park, Solon

Lake MacBride is the place to go on a hot summer day! Relax by the lake or hike to a waterfall where you can cool off, making for one of the best summer hikes in Iowa.

4. Effigy Mounds National Monument

Home to some of the best hikes in Iowa, Effigy Mounds National Monument is a preserved park that's home to dozens of Native American burial mounds. The 7-mile Eagle Rock Trail will take you past many of them on your way to a stunning overlook of the Mississippi River Valley.

5. Clark Tower, Winterset

Winterset's City Park is hiding a true gem - Clark Tower! Stroll through the park until you see it - it's pretty hard to miss. Kids and adults alike both enjoy climbing to the top of this unique lookout point, making for one of the most excellent kid-friendly hikes around Iowa.

6. Wabash Nature Trail

Pick up any part of the 63-mile Wabash Trace Nature Trail for a great hike between Council Bluffs to Blanchard. If you choose to hike the whole thing (in sections, or in one big weekend hike or bike trip!) you'll cross 70 restored railroad bridges.

7. Pikes Peak State Park

Without a doubt one of the most spectacularly scenic hikes in Iowa, Pikes Peak shows off the best viewpoint in the state. If you're not looking for a strenuous hike but still want to see the sights, you can park near the top and hike around the overlook paths.

8. Hitchcock Nature Area

The Loess Hills show off some of Iowa's most unique landscape, and the Hitchcock Nature Area is one of the most serene places in the state.

9. Waubonsie State Park, Hamburg

Waubonsie State Park is another great spot to explore the Loess Hills. Take the Sunset Ridge Trail, one of the best hikes in Iowa, for an overlook of western Iowa that's hard to beat.

10. Palisades-Kepler State Park, Mt. Vernon

One of the best places for summer hikes in Iowa, Palisades-Kepler is a beautiful state park that features a lake and some very peaceful trails. This is a great park to explore on a breezy summer day.

11. Dunnings Spring Park, Decorah

Dunnings Spring Park is a small park in Decorah, near the Ice Cave. Offering one of the best kid-friendly hikes around Iowa, this family-friendly park features an easy walk to a waterfall, where you can see some of Iowa's natural beauty up close.

What are you waiting for? Lace up your sneakers and take on one (or all) of these summer hikes in Iowa! Hiking is a great way to get up close and personal with the Hawkeye State.

So, what do you think? Are these the best hikes in Iowa? Ever trekked any of the trails listed above? Know of any other incredibly scenic hikes in Iowa? Tell us!

Can't get enough of the best hikes in Iowa? Then you're sure to love this scenic hike in Iowa, which boasts caves, water features, and other lovely sights.