Clark Tower, Southeast Iowa Travel Guide

4.8 (155)

Discover panoramic views and pioneer history at Clark Tower, a beloved landmark in Winterset City Park. A stone structure built in 1926.

Clark Tower, a 25-foot limestone structure in Winterset City Park, honors Caleb and Ruth Clark, pioneer settlers of Madison County. Built in 1926, the tower offers visitors panoramic views of the Middle River Valley and a glimpse into the region's past.

A brief summary to Clark Tower

Park, Winterset, Iowa, 50273, US
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Clark Tower.

The road to Clark Tower is narrow and can be rough; proceed with caution when driving.
The road to Clark Tower closes each night at sunset and is closed during the winter months.
Consider hiking to the tower for a more immersive experience of Winterset City Park.

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Explore Clark Tower on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Clark Tower, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

From the Winterset City Park entrance at 300 S 9th St, follow the park road, bearing in mind it is a one-way road. The walk to Clark Tower is approximately 1 mile uphill. The road is narrow and unpaved in sections.
Driving

From Winterset City Park entrance at 300 S 9th St, follow the park road, bearing in mind it is a one-way road. The drive to Clark Tower is approximately 1 mile uphill on a narrow, unpaved road. Parking is available near the tower. Note that the road to Clark Tower is closed each night at sunset and during the winter months. There are no parking fees in the park.

Discover more about Clark Tower

Nestled within Winterset City Park, Clark Tower stands as a tribute to the pioneering spirit of Caleb and Ruth Clark, who were among the first settlers in Madison County. Constructed in 1926 by their descendants, this 25-foot limestone tower provides a tangible link to the area's rich history.The tower itself is built from stone quarried within a 200-foot radius of its location in City Park. Visitors can ascend the two stories of the tower, where they are rewarded with sweeping views of the Middle River Valley. The tower has become known as a hidden gem and referred to as a "castle" by visitors.Located within the 76-acre Winterset City Park, visitors can also enjoy the park's many features, including limestone shelter houses, a hedge maze, and the Cutler-Donahoe Covered Bridge. The park itself was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in March 2021.