Cutler-Donahoe Covered Bridge
Cutler-Donahoe Covered Bridge: A Step Back in Time
Clark Tower: A Limestone Sentinel
Discover Clark Tower in Winterset City Park: a historic limestone monument offering scenic views and a glimpse into Iowa's pioneer past.
Clark Tower, a 25-foot limestone structure in Winterset City Park, stands as a monument to Madison County's early settlers, Caleb and Ruth Clark. Built in 1926, the tower offers visitors scenic views of the Middle River Valley and a glimpse into the region's pioneering past.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Clark Tower
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
Park, Winterset, Iowa, 50273, US
Other nearby places you may find interesting
Explore places near Clark Tower
Getting There
Driving
From Winterset's town square, head south on S 9th Street. Enter Winterset City Park and follow the one-way road leading up to Clark Tower. Be aware that the road is narrow and unpaved in sections. Parking is available near the tower. The road to Clark Tower is typically open from April to November and closes each night at sunset. There are no parking fees.
Walking
From the entrance of Winterset City Park at S 9th Street, follow the road to the right past the stone bridge. Continue along the one-way road, enjoying the natural scenery as you ascend to Clark Tower. Alternatively, take the shorter, steeper hiking trail. The walk is approximately one mile uphill. No entrance fees are required.
Local tips
✓
The road to Clark Tower is a one-way, narrow dirt road, so proceed with caution.
✓
The road to the tower is typically open from April 1st through November 15th.
✓
Vehicles longer than a minivan are not recommended due to the narrow road.
✓
Pack a picnic to enjoy in Winterset City Park, which offers picnic areas and scenic views.
Discover more about Clark Tower
Nestled within Winterset City Park, Clark Tower is a unique landmark that offers a blend of history and scenic beauty. This 25-foot tall, castle-like tower was constructed in 1926 from locally quarried limestone to honor Caleb and Ruth Clark, who were among the first pioneer settlers in Madison County. Their descendants erected the tower on the 80th anniversary of the county's founding as a lasting tribute to their legacy.Visitors can ascend the tower via a winding staircase to the middle level and a steep metal ladder to reach the top. From the summit, one can enjoy panoramic views of the Middle River Valley, especially stunning in the fall. The tower's sturdy construction allowed it to survive an EF4 tornado in March 2022, a testament to its enduring nature.Clark Tower is located within Winterset City Park, which itself has a rich history. The park evolved from grazing land in the 1800s to a recreational space with amenities like picnic areas, a hedge maze, and the Cutler-Donahoe Covered Bridge. The park also features whimsical wooden statues and the nearby remnants of a stone house with rumored connections to Frank and Jesse James.
A brief summary to Clark Tower
Use Clark Tower as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
Get the app
Your all‑in‑one travel companion app
Explore expert travel guides, compare and book tours, experiences, hotels, and more—all from the palm of your hand. Download now for seamless trip planning wherever your wanderlust takes you.
More about West Des Moines
Discover West Des Moines: A blend of historic charm, vibrant shopping, and natural beauty in the heart of Iowa.
Tell me more about West Des Moines
