With the rolling Loess Hills and the breathtaking Iowa countryside as your backdrop, Pottawattamie County is an outdoor playground waiting to be explored! From hiking and biking to kayaking and snowshoeing, adventure is always in season here. Check out some of the best hiking spots in Pottawattamie County below!
Arrowhead Park
Arrowhead Park may be best known for its fishing and camping, but it also hides a network of scenic woodland trails just waiting to be explored. These peaceful paths wind through the trees, offering the perfect place to slow down, take a deep breath, and reconnect with nature. Whether you’re looking for a quiet afternoon stroll, a chance to spot wildlife, or simply an escape from the busyness of everyday life, Arrowhead Park in Neola is a refreshing retreat that feels miles away from it all.
Crescent Wildlife Area
While Crescent Wildlife Area doesn’t have marked hiking trails, it’s a true haven for nature lovers and birdwatchers. Nestled along the Missouri River floodplain, this wild and open space features a serene 5-acre pond that draws in waterfowl, shorebirds, and an array of wetland mammals. It’s the kind of place where every visit brings a new discovery, whether it’s the call of a bird overhead or the quiet rustle of wildlife nearby. Bring your binoculars and take your time exploring—Crescent Wildlife Area is all about slowing down and experiencing nature in its purest form.
Farm Creek Public Wildlife Area
Just five miles east of Carson, Farm Creek Public Wildlife Area offers a glimpse into Iowa’s natural heritage with its two serene ponds and a restored native prairie bursting with tall grasses and vibrant wildflowers. This is the perfect spot to step off the beaten path and fully immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the prairie. Hiking here isn’t just a walk—it’s a rugged, up-close experience with a landscape that feels both timeless and wild.
Hitchcock Nature Center
Hitchcock Nature Center stands as the crown jewel of hiking in Pottawattamie County, and for good reason. Nestled in the heart of the striking Loess Hills, this park boasts more than 10 miles of trails that wind through woodlands, prairies, and ridgelines with sweeping views of the Missouri River Valley. What makes Hitchcock especially exciting is the way its trail system connects—you can mix and match routes to create your own adventure, whether that’s a challenging climb, a leisurely walk, or something in between. Along the way, you’ll discover scenic overlooks, vibrant wildflowers, and perhaps even catch sight of soaring raptors above. It’s a place where every visit feels unique, and every path leads to a new adventure.
Wheeler Grove Conservation Area
This unique conservation area offers a variety of ecosystems to explore including dense woodlands, an open canopy savanna, a reconstructed prairie, and a wetland riparian. Grab your hiking boots and uncover all that Wheeler Grove has to offer. You may even spot a family of beavers playing in the pond!
Please note that hiking at Crescent Wildlife Area, Farm Creek Public Wildlife Area, and Wheeler Grove Conservation area is not recommended during hunting season since they don’t have designated hiking trails and are open for hunting. Please visit the Iowa Department of Natural Resources website for hunting season dates. Happy hiking!
