Iowa gets a reputation for being a flat flyover state, but those who take the time to get to know the parks and trails can tell you about cliffs, hills, bluffs, and more. The Chute and Heritage Trail Loop is a loess hills trail found near Honey Creek on the border of western Iowa, in the Hitchcock Nature Preserve, and it’s a great place to spend a day getting to know the natural beauty of the Hawkeye State.

The Chute and Heritage Trail is one of Iowa’s most underrated adventures, and this easy hike is a loop trail that’s easy for anyone to enjoy. Lace up your boots and grab your water bottle — it’s time to hit the trail.

AllTrails / Timothy Fast

There are miles of rolling hills to explore in this section of the Hawkeye State, thanks to the well-groomed trails of the Hitchcock Nature Area.

AllTrails / Timothy Fast

The Chute and Heritage Loop Trail meanders 2.3 miles up and down the Loess Hills, showing off beautiful wildflowers and a remote natural ecosystem.

AllTrails / Lynn Siegner

Iowa’s Loess Hills are a unique geologic feature that cover the western half of the state, near the Missouri River. They were formed thousands of years ago.

AllTrails / Elizabeth Risner

In this one-of-a-kind landscape, you’ll find acres and acres of steep, sprawling hills formed by glacier melt that ran down to the river.

AllTrails / Steven Kennedy

Plan for a day at Hitchcock Nature Center! Pack a picnic and bring plenty of water, it can get hot here above the trees.

AllTrails / Chip Sprague

Iowa’s Loess Hills offer a beautiful and scenic escape from your busy life, and the Chute and Heritage Trail is an easy loop hike you’re sure to enjoy.

AllTrails / Teri Truscott

Head out on this Loess Hills trail for a hike you’re sure to remember! If you’re looking to get to know this section of the Hawkeye State a little better, Spend A Day In Iowa’s Loess Hills At These 7 Fascinating Places.

AllTrails / Timothy Fast

AllTrails / Lynn Siegner

AllTrails / Elizabeth Risner

AllTrails / Steven Kennedy

AllTrails / Chip Sprague

AllTrails / Teri Truscott

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Address: Hitchcock Nature Center, 27792 Ski Hill Loop, Honey Creek, IA 51542, USA