Ledges State Park, Iowa

 Ledges State Park is located 4 miles past the small town of Boone. The park has many wonders, including several miles in trail systems, The Lost Lake, camping, and family fun. This is a place many spectators come to see, it is the ideal place for photographers and bird watchers.

Why is it called Ledges? In this park you will find a sandstone gorge, which was carved by Pea's Creek, a tributary of the enormous Des Moines River. According to Wikipedia, the gorge in nearly 100 feet deep!

You can always find groups of children playing in Pea's Creak, there are 6 crossings for this creek for cars and bikes to pass. You will find the children here, arms up, cheering for the cars to go fast so they are splashed by the water. It is a favorite pass time, one that never seems to tire. 

Aside of hours of play, there are days of play! As this park includes a camping site. Nestled at the top of the park, through a winding rode is the campground. The stations are small, but lively. You can bring a tent, or be more modern and use a camper! There is a shower house and restrooms for the campers, a nice little amenity. 

There are several trails for all to enjoy, you better bring your hiking boots, these trails are not for the everyday, casual walker. There are trails with close to 100 steps and they go nowhere but up. 

Pictured above is a small set of stairs that lead from one winding trail to another. Some of these trails over look the Des Moines River, one leads to the Lost Lake, and the others crest the top of the ledges.

One of the most beautiful spots to find and rest on is Stoner's Point. A large secluded, massive rock that literally hangs over the Des Moines River. It rest roughly 60 feet above the river, and just below it, there is what the locals call "The Couch". You can not see it from the point itself, you would have to be on the other side of the river to see it. To reach it, you must trek the nearly 90 degree hill, and walk on a sliver of ledge that will lead you to another protruding rock slab. 

Whether you are in need to find peace, beauty, or just a great hike, Ledges State Park is the place for you. You can go in solidarity, with a group of friends for a cook out, or have a nice family camping weekend. 

You will never get bored here, but you will grow physically tired! It is a two-day trip, and you will never want to leave. This place has so much to offer. 

Getting away from the modern world for a few hours definitely will allow you to clear your head. Driving through the winding gorge is so serine, and calming. I recommend taking a trip during the fall, just when the leaves are starting to change colors. It compares to a beautiful painting of orange, yellow and reds. 

This particular trail leads to Stoner's Point and The Lost Lake. There are several trails off to the side that will let you look over the Des Moines River as well. 

Take a hike!