Iowa's Loess Hills National Scenic Byway
The distinctive hills on Iowa's western edge support a surprising variety of plants and animals; the 220-mile Loess Hills National Scenic Byway links prairies, parks, forests, communities and overlooks.
Hitchcock Nature Area in Loess Hills, Iowa
Loess Hills Lodge in Council Bluffs, Iowa
Loess Hills in Council Bluffs, Iowa
Loess Hills in Council Bluffs, Iowa
More than 10,000 years ago, glaciers receded and left finely ground silt and sand that wind blew into vast mounds—the Loess Hills. The grass- and tree-covered ridges follow western Iowa’s state line. Keep in mind, you don’t need to drive the whole 220-mile route to get a taste of the scenery.
Local spirit On the third Saturday of the month, May to October, the Living Loess tour highlights local history and agriculture. Stops include Loess Hills Lavender Farm, Hitchcock Nature Center and Garden Grove Eatery.
For maps and trip planning