Are you looking for the perfect summer activity that you can do with your pup? Hiking is a perfect way to get out and enjoy the great outdoors with your four-legged companion. To help you plan your next adventure, we’ve put together a list of the top 10 dog-friendly hiking trails in Iowa.
1. Ledges State Park: Located near Madrid, this 861-acre state park offers beautiful views of the Des Moines River valley. The trails here range from easy to difficult, and your pup will love exploring the park’s sandstone formations.
2. Backbone State Park: Located in the rolling hills of northeast Iowa, this 1,003-acre park offers over 15 miles of hiking trails that take you through forests, meadows, and along the Maquoketa River.
3. Palisades-Kepler State Park: This park is located in the Cedar Rapids area and offers 8 miles of trails that wind through wooded areas, meadows, and along the Cedar River. Your pup will love exploring the park’s sandstone cliffs and bluffs.
4. Mines of Spain State Recreation Area: Located near Dubuque, this park offers over 14 miles of hiking trails that take you through a variety of landscapes, including forests, meadows, and along the Mississippi River.
5. George Wyth State Park: Located near Waterloo, this park offers over 16 miles of hiking trails that take you through forests, meadows, and along the Cedar River.
6. Big Creek State Park: Located near Polk City, this park offers over 20 miles of hiking trails that take you through wooded areas, meadows, and along Big Creek Lake.
7. Pikes Peak State Park: Located in the northeast corner of Iowa, this park offers over 8 miles of hiking trails that take you through wooded areas and along the Mississippi River.
8. Wildcat Den State Park: Located near Muscatine, this park offers over 12 miles of hiking trails that take you through wooded areas, meadows, and along the Little Maquoketa River.
9. Maquoketa Caves State Park: This park is located in the rolling hills of northeast Iowa and offers over 10 miles of trails that take you through wooded areas, meadows, and along the Maquoketa River.
10. Snake Alley: Located in Burlington, this park offers over 3 miles of trails that take you through wooded areas and along the Mississippi River.
Now that you’ve got your list of the top 10 dog-friendly hiking trails in Iowa, it’s time to get out and explore! Before heading out, make sure you and your pup are properly equipped for your hike. At PeppiesPetWorld, you’ll find all the gear you need for a successful hike, including leashes, collars, treats, and water bowls.
No matter which trail you choose, your pup will love exploring the beautiful landscape that Iowa has to offer. So, get out and enjoy the great outdoors with your four-legged companion!
References:
1. https://www.iowadnr.gov/Places-to-Go/State-Parks/Iowa-State-Parks
2. https://peppiespetworld.com/