Some of the best views in the upper Midwest area of the country are right here in Iowa. Pikes Peak State Park near McGregor has hiking trails, waterfalls, and an amazing view of the Mississippi river from a 500-foot bluff. Bring a picnic, or stay longer and camp overnight.

Arial view of Pikes Peak State Park

Pikes Peak State Park is full of hiking and biking trails, natural landmarks, and full-service campgrounds. The park overlooks the Mississippi River, one of the biggest draws is the lookout over a 500-foot bluff that offers amazing views of the Mississippi River. Pikes Peak State Park is located in northeastern Iowa. Its address is 32264 Pikes Peak Road, McGregor.

Hiking Path

Hiking paths are well-kept. The park covers nearly 1,000 acres and is managed by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources. There are a total of 11.5 miles of hiking trails throughout the park.

Bridal Veil Falls

This waterfall is one of the beautiful things you'll see if you decide to take this 4.1-mile Pikes Peak hike. The trail is out-and-back and is appropriate for inexperienced hikers.

Stairs

Be aware that there are many stairs throughout the Pikes Peak hiking trails. They are wonderfully maintained and nearly all have handrails.

View from one of the staircases

Some of the best views are near PointAnn and the Crow's Nest. There are several trails, so if you want to go a shorter distance, you have options that are just as beautiful as the full 4.1-mile hike.

Paved hiking trail

Most of the trails are wide dirt paths, some are paved, and there are many boardwalks that were installed to help control erosion.

The lookout

The lookout offers breathtaking views of the Mississippi River. On a clear and bright day, you can look across and see Wisconsin. Many visitors bring a picnic and spend some time enjoying the amazing views.

Wedding at the lookout

Pikes Peak is a busy state park, weddings, celebrations, reunions, school trips, and family get-togethers are all common, here.

View of the Mississippi River from the lookout

Wildlife flourishes in this natural setting. Hikers report seeing eagles, owls, and even coyotes. This is a popular place for birdwatchers. If you are interested in seeing wildlife, you may want to bring binoculars.

Fog over the Mississippi

The view from the lookout is epic, even on days when thick fog settles on the Mississippi River.

Barges coming down the Mississippi

Barges on this giant river seem tiny. They are common, though. This section of the Mississippi River offers great transportation opportunities.

Winter sunrise from the lookout

No matter what time of year you visit, Pikes Peak State Park offers some of the most beautiful scenery in the state.

View of the Mississippi River

Camping is an option at this state park. There are over 70 campsites, modern shower and restroom facilities, and 52 of the sites have electrical hookups. Mountain bikes are permitted on certain sections of the trail system. The area is full of sight-seeing opportunities. Effigy Mounds National Monument is just seven miles away. The town of McGregor is a great place to eat and do some shopping.

Is a hike through Pikes Peak State Park going on your to-do list this spring? Are there any other amazingly breathtaking views in Iowa that we should know about?