Hike Whitewater Canyon Wildlife Area

Bernard, Iowa

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Details

Distance

3.3 miles

Elevation Gain

354 ft

Route Type

Loop

Description

Added by Alaina Donovan

Stunning hike to a canyon you would've never guessed existed with acres to explore!

Whitewater Canyon Wildlife Area is such a cool find. When you first arrive it appears to be a massive plot of farm land. As you continue to hike and get into the wooded area, you begin to hear rushing water. Before you know it you're standing on a jaw-dropping overlook of 1 of the 3 canyons in the state of Iowa. There is a winding river through the gut with beautiful landscape and bluffs. Great place for geology buffs with topography dating back 450 million years to a time when what is now Iowa was under the sea. Rare wildlife and vegetation is all around. Fishing, cross country skiing, snowshoeing, hunting, hiking, wildlife-watchers, and even caving is possible on this 419 acre preservation.

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Features

Chillin

Fishing

Photography

Swimming

Snowshoeing

Hiking

Bathrooms

Dog Friendly

Easy Parking

Family Friendly

Forest

Groups

River

Scenic

Waterfall

Wildflowers

Wildlife

Swimming Hole

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Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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