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Hitchcock Nature Center: A Loess Hills Haven

Explore Iowa's unique Loess Hills at Hitchcock Nature Center: hiking, birdwatching, camping, and breathtaking views await!

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Nestled in Iowa's Loess Hills near Honey Creek, Hitchcock Nature Center offers nearly 1,500 acres of prairie, savanna, and woodlands for outdoor enthusiasts. With hiking trails, bird watching, and stunning views, it's a natural escape.

A brief summary to Hitchcock Nature Center

  • Monday 6 am-10 pm
  • Tuesday 6 am-10 pm
  • Wednesday 6 am-10 pm
  • Thursday 6 am-10 pm
  • Friday 6 am-10 pm
  • Saturday 6 am-10 pm
  • Sunday 6 am-10 pm

Local tips

  • Bring binoculars for optimal birdwatching, especially during the fall migration.
  • Wear sturdy shoes for hiking the sometimes steep and uneven trails.
  • Check the Pottawattamie Conservation website for upcoming events and programs.
  • A daily entrance pass is required per vehicle, or consider an annual membership for frequent visits.
  • Visit the Loess Hills Lodge to learn about the unique geology and ecology of the area.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    Hitchcock Nature Center is located at 27792 Ski Hill Loop, Honey Creek, IA 51542. From I-29, take the Crescent exit and travel east to the Old Lincoln Highway. The nature center is 5 miles north of Crescent on the Old Lincoln Highway. The entrance fee is $5 per vehicle, payable with exact change or check at the park gate.

  • Walking

    From the Loess Hills Lodge parking area, various trails are accessible. Consult the trail map at the trailhead or in the lodge to choose a route based on your desired difficulty and distance. The lodge is located at the highest point in the park, requiring an uphill walk from the parking lot.

Unlock the Best of Hitchcock Nature Center

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Discover more about Hitchcock Nature Center

Hitchcock Nature Center, located in the unique Loess Hills of western Iowa, is a haven for nature lovers and outdoor adventurers. The center encompasses nearly 1,500 acres of diverse landscapes, including prairie remnants, forests, and Bur Oak savanna. These Loess Hills, formed by windblown silt deposited over thousands of years, are a rare geological formation found in only two places in the world: Iowa and China. Visitors can explore over 14 miles of hiking trails that wind through the hills, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The trails range in difficulty from easy boardwalks to challenging climbs, catering to all skill levels. Birdwatchers flock to Hitchcock Nature Center, especially during the fall raptor migration, when thousands of hawks, eagles, and other birds of prey pass through the area. The Hitchcock HawkWatch, conducted annually, provides valuable data for raptor research. Beyond hiking and birdwatching, Hitchcock Nature Center offers a variety of recreational activities, including camping, picnicking, snowshoeing, and stargazing. The Loess Hills Lodge features a visitor center, gift shop, observation tower, and meeting rooms. The center's commitment to conservation and education makes it a valuable resource for the community and a must-visit destination for anyone interested in experiencing the natural beauty of Iowa.

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