Loess Hills Scenic Byway
Hitchcock Nature Center, IA

Located on the Hitchcock Loop of the Loess Hills Scenic Byway, this 1,003-acre preserve harbors some of the largest remaining prairie remnants in the state of Iowa.

At Hitchcock, visitors can enjoy many unique recreation opportunities such as hiking, camping, picnicking, bird watching, sledding, star gazing or simply enjoying nature. Exhibits and interpretation explain why the area is known as the “Hawk Highway” of the Great Plains and has been identified as one of the top 15 sites in North America to view birds of prey. See exhibits and interpretation about local flora and fauna and why the Loess Hills are globally significant. Hikers of all abilities can explore the Loess Hills via a network of over 10 miles of hiking trails and an equal access boardwalk. Take a look from the 45-foot observation tower for a fantastic, 360-degree view of the hills, the Missouri River Valley and Omaha, NE skyline.