Steep limestone walls line narrow river valleys, while trails wind through forests, prairie and wetlands: in Jones County, waterscapes and cultural history meet along a variety of routes. From a walk in Central Park to a trip to the Maquoketa River and discoveries related to Grant Wood, there are plenty of ways to get to know the region at your own pace.
Trails Between Forest, Prairie and River
Central Park offers about five miles of trails through forest, restored prairie and wetlands. Another option in the park is the StoryWalk® Trail, where book pages and interactive activities combine in an experience designed for families. At the Jones County Nature Center, exhibits and hands-on activities add to the nature experiences, while regular public programs provide an additional highlight. If you would like to attend a program, check the latest schedule in advance.
At Pictured Rocks, steep limestone cliffs rise above a narrow valley along the Maquoketa River. The 726-acre area is designated as a wildlife management area, and trails pass through undeveloped hardwood forest. A paved river access point makes canoeing and kayaking possible there. Caves are also among the possible destinations, but access requires a permit form from the director of the Jones County Conservation Board. Check this requirement before your visit.
Whitewater Canyon offers a different landscape: the 562-acre wildlife management area includes forest, upland and riparian habitats. Along Whitewater Creek, 200-foot cliffs rise above the water, and overlooks offer views of the canyon country. Several caves and rock shelters lie along the trails. In winter, the ungroomed trails offer opportunities for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Seasonal activities here complement the year-round Grant Wood Trail at the Martelle Trailhead: the 0.5-mile paved recreational corridor passes through shaded, tree-lined sections and by remnants of wetland prairie vegetation.
River Access Points and Trails for Different Perspectives
The Wapsipinicon River flows about 43 miles through Jones County. A trip down the river past Stone City brings historic stone buildings and homes into view. The Wapsi Trail offers a different perspective: this 10-foot-wide paved connection links Anamosa, the historic Hale Bridge and Wapsipinicon State Park. Native prairie plantings along the way add another landscape feature to the route.
At Wapsipinicon State Park, the multi-use trails are open in winter for cross-country skiing and snowmobiling. The history of the buildings also shapes the park: many of them, including the stone arch bridge, lodge and shelters, were handcrafted by inmates at the nearby Anamosa State Penitentiary. The campground is fully reservable; reservations are required. If camping is part of your travel plans, make your reservation in advance.
Other river access points offer their own highlights. Eby's Mill Access has a concrete, paved ramp suitable for kayaks, canoes and tubes. The Eby's Mill Wildlife Area Leifker Addition includes a mile of shoreline along the Maquoketa River and has hiking trails; it is also part of the Indian Bluffs-Pictured Rocks Bird Conservation Area. At Stone City Access, canoe and kayak trips pass limestone cliffs, rock bluffs and wooded banks. The options described here offer different ways to experience the water: from a dedicated ramp to a trip where the riverside landscape takes center stage.
Grant Wood and the History of These Places
The Grant Wood Scenic Byway connects landscape and art along an 80-mile paved driving route from Stone City to the Mississippi River. From Anamosa, the route heads west to Stone City and east to Antioch School. As art attractions, the byway features the Grant Wood Art Gallery and the artistic site known as the Stone City Art Colony. The Grant Wood Art Gallery displays prints of Grant Wood's paintings, furniture he designed and materials related to the Stone City Art Colony. If you plan to visit, check the latest visitor information in advance.
Antioch School also offers a specific historical connection: it is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. In Anamosa, the Anamosa State Penitentiary Museum opened to the public in 2002. Its collection includes original uniforms, architectural artifacts, weapons made by inmates and detailed architectural exhibits. Since on-site visiting options should be confirmed, check the latest information before including the museum in your plans. Together, these stops trace a path from the history of the river landscape to art, buildings and collection pieces.
Discover More Destinations
Discover more destinations: Anamosa, Decatur County, Dickinson County, Woodbury, Linn, Palo Alto County, Poweshiek County, Hardin County.
For the main travel overview: Iowa.
