Tourism in the Loess Hills

For thousands of years before European settlement, prairie covered 80% of Iowa. This prairie provided habitat for 250-300 species. Today only 0.1% of the state's original 28.6 million acres is estimated to remain prairie. Many stretches of this prairie are located in the Loess Hills. Loess (pronounced "luss") is a German word meaning "loose" and is the name of the soil that creates these majestic hills located along the Missouri River border in Iowa. The hills span about 200 miles north to south and are unique due to the depth and concentration of loess deposits not to mention the rare prairie plants. Some endangered animal species such as the ornate box turtle and the prairie rattlesnake are also found in the Loess Hills. Due to the unique formation of the Hills as well as the scenic prairie and rich ecological elements, the Loess Hills are a major landmark in Iowa and draw tourists to the area every season of the year.

Due to the fragile aspects of the Hills, inviting tourists to visit may cause some problems. The soil is sensitive to footsteps (deep grooves are visible on some trails). These paths leave the soil exposed to weather elements and can cause erosion. Pollution and traveling (walking, hiking, stomping) on rare prairie plants can also be problems. Due to these concerns, tourism in the Loess Hills is an undertaking that must be carefully planned with a focus on education.

So Much to See

Tourism has become a booming business and educational venture in the Loess Hills.

•	Preparation Canyon State Park—The scenic overlook located here is a popular spot for photographers and sunset watchers.
•	Loess Hills Scenic Byway—This 220-mile stretch of highway that weaves through the Loess Hills. There are many campgrounds and small towns to explore along the way.
•	Dorothy Pecaut Nature Center Located in Sioux City, this nature center provides an interpretive learning center with many displays in addition to hiking trails within the hills and prairie.
•	Stone State Park Located in Sioux City, the area provides hiking, biking and picnicking. All throughout the Loess Hills Canoe trips on the Missouri River and historic or "fall color" bus tours

How to Get Started

There are so many unique things to see in the Loess Hills. If you are a teacher, a student, or just someone who wants to learn more about touring the Loess Hills, contact:

Loess Hills Hospitality Association
P.O. Box 51
Moorhead, Iowa 51558
(712) 886-5441
loesshil@netins.net

Source

Loess Hills Hospitality Association. (online) http://showcase.netins.net/web/loesshills/. January 2002.