Ledges State Park

Ledges State Park is located four miles south of the city of Boone, Iowa. This state park, one of Iowa's first, combines an intriguing history with a wealth of leisure activities to create a satisfying outing for the whole family.

History

The area around Ledges State Park has been inhabited by humans for least 4,000 years. When Europeans first entered the area it was occupied by Native Americans of the Sauk, Mesqwakie and Sioux tribes. Burial mounds around the park testify to other, unknown tribes who came before them. More recently, in the 1930s, the site was developed by the Civilian Conservation Corps, a New Deal group dedicated to the renovation of state-owned land throughout the nation.

Attractions and recreation

The area's main attraction is Pea's Creek Canyon, a gorge 100 feet deep in some places. The canyon has stunning sandstone cliffs and valleys, as well as an interesting range of native plant species and beautiful wooded hollows. To facilitate viewing of these natural beauties, the park has a series of hiking trails with helpful interpretive signs. Also available is a trail guide; you can find it at the official Ledges State Park website. As the Des Moines River flows by the park, visitors also canoe, swim and fish.

Floods

The park's proximity to the Des Moines River is not always beneficial. Frequent flooding has left the lower levels of the canyon's ledges covered in silt. Furthermore, the park is sometimes closed due to high water. If you plan to visit, then call beforehand or check the website to make sure it is open.

Ledges State Park is one of Iowa's oldest parks. Come see the stunning geological features and stay to experience the beauty of its flora and fauna, the excitement of its recreational options and the mysterious history embodied in its Native American burial mounds.