Two byways provide a striking framework for Harrison County: the Lincoln Highway National Heritage Byway and the Loess Hills National Scenic Byway run through the county. Their names alone set two themes side by side—the heritage of a well-known transportation route and the landscape of the Loess Hills.
Landscape and seasons
The Loess Hills State Forest lies in Harrison and Monona Counties, covers 11,484 acres and is divided into four units. This gives the landscape story a concrete dimension: the forest spans two counties and comprises four units.
At DeSoto National Wildlife Refuge, thousands of waterfowl find refuge in the wetlands and on DeSoto Lake in spring and fall. Fishing and the use of non-wake boats on the lake, however, are permitted only during a set period: Visitors can enjoy these activities from April 15 through October 14. The seasonal details offer two different ways to plan a visit—the waterfowl seasons and the period when the lake can be used. Check the refuge’s current rules before your trip.
Discover the history
The visitor center at DeSoto National Wildlife Refuge houses an archaeological collection of nearly 250,000 artifacts. They were excavated from the recovered wreck of the steamboat Bertrand. This connects the refuge’s natural setting with a specific historical collection: the exhibits come from a shipwreck and can be seen at the visitor center.
In Woodbine, Lincolnway tells the story of its construction across eleven city blocks: Its surface is made of original brick and forms the longest surviving stretch of its kind in Iowa. Downtown Woodbine’s Brick Street Historic District is also listed on the National Register of Historic Places, as is Lincolnway. The street and the historic district remain two separate historic listings.
Harrison County Historical Village dates back to the 19th century. Today, it is a museum complex and also serves as an Iowa Welcome Center. The Village and Welcome Center is located on the Loess Hills National Scenic Byway, the Iowa Lincoln Highway National Heritage Byway and the Western Skies Scenic Byway. A walking trail is also part of the visitor experience. Since seasonal operations can change, check the visiting conditions in advance; also check trail conditions locally.
Trails and views
A regional recreation description dated April 20, 2020, lists around 10 miles of trails through prairies and wooded areas at Old Town Conservation Area. The trails offer views of the Boyer and Missouri River valleys as well as Missouri Valley. In northeastern Harrison County, Schaben Park’s trails wind through oak forests around a small pond. The two areas offer different landscapes; check trail conditions locally.
Agricultural attractions
Sawmill Hollow is America’s first aronia berry farm and sits on 150 acres in the Loess Hills beside a spring-fed lake. For trip planning, keep in mind that farm operations and visitor arrangements can change. Check current visiting options in advance.
Small Fruit Farm offers pick-your-own apples, strawberries and pumpkins. Fruit availability depends on the season and weather. If you plan to pick your own, it’s best to ask about the current harvest. Alongside the byways, historic sites and nature trails, seasonal farm experiences offer another distinct way to explore the area.
Discover more destinations
Discover more destinations: Missouri Valley, Des Moines County, Montgomery County, Calhoun County, Jackson, Clinton County, Marion County, Kossuth County.
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