Monroe Iowa HIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE


Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near Monroe, Iowa.



1. Red Rock Prairie Trail

Paved Rail Trail. Cruise a 9.75-mile paved path linking Monroe and Prairie City. Soak in classic Iowa scenery with open skies, farm vistas, and gentle terrain. Enjoy easy travel for walking, running, and biking, with a dramatic rural backdrop.

< MORE INFO >

2. Rock Creek Recreation Bike Trail

Lakeview Loop Adventure. Wind along 4 miles of blacktop through the scenic Rock Creek Lake watershed. Encounter challenging sections and wildlife in a beautiful park setting. Ideal for walking, jogging, biking, and winter cross-country skiing.

< MORE INFO >

3. Jacob Krumm Nature Preserve Trails

Peaceful Prairie Wanders. Traverse winding mowed trails through prairies, wetlands, and woodlands. Spot birds and wildlife while tackling gentle to moderate terrain. Perfect for hikers seeking a serene, nature-immersion experience.

< MORE INFO >

4. Clear Creek Wildlife Area Trails

Wildlife Haven Paths. Meander on mowed trails in a quiet conservation area rich with wildlife. Experience easy walking routes ideal for birding and nature discovery. Enjoy tranquil woodsy and prairie scenery all year long.

< MORE INFO >

5. Mariposa Park Trails

Family-Friendly Loops. Explore easy interpretive trails weaving through meadows and woodland. Learn about local ecology at educational stops along the route. Accessible for families and hikers of all ages looking for a relaxed outing.

< MORE INFO >


6. Ashton Wildwood Park Trails

Starry Night Strolls. Hike interpretive trails beneath tall oaks and open prairie. Visit the park's observatory for star-gazing after your trek. Ideal for nature lovers and those seeking a night sky adventure.

< MORE INFO >

7. Chichaqua Valley Trail

Scenic Rail-to-Trail. Ride or walk along a long, smooth trail stretching through wetlands and rolling countryside. Enjoy peaceful rural landscapes, bridges over the Skunk River, and abundant birds. Perfect for long-distance outings or short strolls.

< MORE INFO >

8. Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge Trails

Tallgrass Safari Hikes. Roam through vast tallgrass prairie on well-kept trails with sweeping vistas. Spot bison, elk, and wildflowers in this remarkable natural habitat. Choose from a variety of easy to moderate loops, ideal for all ages.

< MORE INFO >

9. South Skunk River Water Trail

Riverside Trekking Spots. Follow water trails along the South Skunk River for scenic riverside hiking and wildlife encounters. Enjoy the soothing sound of the river as you explore floodplains and forested banks. Great for hikers seeking a blend of water and land adventure.

< MORE INFO >

10. Prairie City Arboretum Trails

Botanical Beauty Walks. Stroll easy trails lined with native trees, blooming wildflowers, and educational signs. Enjoy a peaceful, accessible spot for a leisurely family walk. Experience seasonal color changes and tranquil garden vibes.

< MORE INFO >