Guide to Pikes Peak State Park: Camping, hikes, fees, & more
There is plenty to do in Pikes Peak State Park, from hiking to birding to hunting for fossils. Discover one of Iowa’s top nature destinations.
Pikes Peak State Park is known for its majestic river views and unique landscape. A mix of rocky cliffs, rivers, and forest, the 964-acre park’s terrain is different from the flat plains and gentle rolling hills that cover much of Iowa. From the park’s many scenic overlooks, visitors can enjoy spectacular views of the Mississippi and Wisconsin rivers.
Located in McGregor in northeastern Iowa, Pikes Peak State Park is free to enter, though fees apply if you want to camp, which is highly recommended given how much there is to do within the park. To help you make the most of your trip to Pikes Peak State Park, we put together the ultimate guide, highlighting the best hiking trails and other activities, as well as information on camping facilities and additional nearby lodging options. Keep reading to discover everything Pikes Peak State Park has to offer.
Camping
The campground at Pikes Peak State Park has more than 60 sites, most of which are electrical. The campground features modern amenities, including shower and restroom facilities, a dump station, and a shop that sells snacks, refreshments, ice, firewood, and souvenirs. Campsites can be reserved online here.
If you prefer not to camp, there are other less rustic lodging options in McGregor, including historic hotels, quaint bed and breakfasts, and cozy log cabins.
Hiking
There are plenty of hiking opportunities within Pikes Peak State Park. The park features about 11 miles of trails that wind through heavily wooded areas and lead to overlooks boasting breathtaking views of bluffs and valleys. The following are some of the most notable trails within the park that offer the best views of the surrounding area.
Point Ann Trail
Point Ann Trail is one of the longest trails in Pikes Peak State Park. The out-and-back trail, which is almost four miles in length, offers scenic views of McGregor and the Mississippi River from a fairly remote overlook. You’ll spend most of the hike traversing through hardwood forest, but the trail also passes through some flat grasslands. Point Ann Trail is one of the park’s least crowded trails, making it an excellent option for hikers seeking some solitude. If you prefer to explore on wheels, a portion of the trail is also open to mountain bikes.
Chinquapin Ridge Trail
Chinquapin Ridge Trail can be combined with Point Ann Trail for those looking for a longer hike and more views. The trail follows along the edge of a bluff and offers many vantage points where you can soak in stunning views of the Mississippi River. Along the way, you can also spot native Chinquapin oak trees, which are unique because of their dwarf-like size. This trail is considered moderately difficult.
Bridal Veil Falls Trail
Hikers seeking a short but scenic trail should consider the Bridal Veil Falls Trail. This half-mile boardwalk trail is relatively easy to traverse and leads to a small waterfall dubbed Bridal Veil Falls. The waterfall is a sight to see any time of year, but is particularly striking when frozen during the winter months.
Near the beginning of Bridal Veil Falls Trail, you’ll find Bear Mound, one of the many historic Native American effigy mounds located throughout Pikes Peak State Park. This is one of the park’s most popular trails, so be prepared for potential crowds if you go during peak hours.
“There are many hiking trails and the one to Bridal Veil Falls is actually a boardwalk. We’ve walked over 12 miles in the past few days and enjoyed every step,” a park visitor wrote on Tripadvisor.
Other Activities
Hiking one of the aforementioned trails isn’t the only way to explore Pikes Peak State Park. The following are a few other popular activities and attractions you can enjoy in the park.
Pikes Peak Overlook
Pikes Peak State Park’s main overlook sits atop a 500-foot bluff and provides sweeping views of the confluence of the Mississippi and Wisconsin rivers. The overlook is accessible via a short paved trail, and the views earned the park a spot on Mixbook’s list of the 100 Most Breathtaking Views in America. If you want to enjoy top-notch views without going on a long hike, head to this overlook.
Birdwatching
Birding is a popular activity at Pikes Peak State Park, which is home to more than 200 bird species. Eagles and warblers are commonly seen at the park, and you may also be able to spot woodpeckers, wrens, flycatchers, hummingbirds, sparrows, and kinglets, to name a few other frequently seen species.
Native American Burial Mounds
Pikes Peak State Park is home to more than 60 Native American burial mounds. Most of the mounds are conical, but a few are effigies shaped like bears. The mounds were built between 800 and 1200 A.D. and represent centuries of culture and history.
Fossil Hunting
As you explore the many trails in Pikes Peak State Park, keep an eye out for some special treasures. You can find various types of fossils within the park, including those of several different ancient water species.
Picnicking
Enjoy lunch with a view at one of the park’s picnic areas. There are picnic tables scattered throughout the park, many of which boast beautiful river views, as well as a rustic picnic shelter, which can be reserved online, and two gazebos.
“We stopped here to have a picnic lunch during our travels. What a beautiful place! Adequate parking. There [are] many picnic tables to sit and eat,” a visitor wrote on Tripadvisor.
Plan Your Trip
Now that you’re aware of everything Pikes Peak State Park has to offer, it’s time to start planning your trip. Here are a few details and important bits of information to keep in mind.
When To Visit
Pikes Peak State Park is open year-round, but it’s especially beautiful in early to mid-October when the fall foliage is at its most colorful. If you want to camp, note that the campground is closed from December 1 through the end of February.
What To Pack
What you should pack for your visit to Pikes Peak State Park will vary depending on the activities you plan to participate in, but you’ll likely want to wear comfortable clothing, including sneakers or hiking boots, and bring water, bug spray, and a first-aid kit. You may also want to pack prepared foods if you plan to take advantage of the various picnic facilities throughout the park, and don’t forget your phone or camera to capture the stunning nature views and wildlife.
If you plan to camp, you’ll probably need to pack additional supplies and food.
Location
Pikes Peak State Park is located at 32264 Pikes Peak Road in McGregor.
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