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USA Today
13-08-2025
- USA Today
Ledges State Park in Iowa is a crown jewel of the Midwest
The geography at Ledges State Park spans 300 million years, when this part of Iowa was beneath a vast prehistoric ocean – Photo courtesy of Harold Rail I thought Iowa was all cornfields and flatlands, but tucked away in the center of the state lies a geological wonder that'll make you question what you thought you knew about the Hawkeye State. Ledges State Park in Madrid, Iowa, boasts towering sandstone cliffs, carved canyons, abundant wildlife, and stunning natural beauty that will captivate even the most jaded traveler. Whether you're camping under the stars or simply exploring for the day, this place may redefine your expectations. Not your typical Midwest outdoor experience, the Boone County park offers 100-foot sandstone gorges that tell a story spanning 300 million years, when this slice of Iowa was beneath a vast prehistoric ocean. Fast-forward through some serious geological action, add a hefty dose of glacial meltwater about 13,000 years ago, and you've got yourself a canyon that may not exactly rival Western destinations but laughs in the face of corn country stereotypes. The star attraction: Canyon Drive The main event of Ledges State Park is Canyon Drive. This winding one-way road hugs Pea's Creek and delivers satisfying views around every curve — a front-row seat to Iowa's geological history lesson, if you will. The road snakes through the canyon, offering plenty of pullouts where you can park, gawk, and snap photos. Those towering sandstone ledges rising nearly 100 feet above the streambed? Nature's patience and persistence carved them. During fall, the canyon erupts with a kaleidoscope of colors that rivals New England's famous foliage displays. Winter brings a complete closure to cars, but even when vehicles are banned, hikers can still explore the canyon's wonderland on foot. Advertisement Fair warning: Canyon Drive was closed to vehicle access for a couple of days during my visit due to heavy summer rains (but reopened on day three). We spied scads of kids squealing in delight as they waded through Pea's Creek on Canyon Road, getting bonus splash zones when cars drove through the shallow crossings. Where to hike in Ledges State Park Natural stone steps help with the steep inclines at Ledges State Park – Photo courtesy of Iowa DNR Ledges State Park trail system covers about 4 miles, but it means business: Some steep slopes will get your heart pumping, and scenic overlooks make uphill swearing under your breath worthwhile. The trails wind through terrain that showcases the park's dramatic topography, leading you to spectacular viewpoints of Pea's Creek Canyon and the broader Des Moines River Valley. For those who prefer more approachable nature, the park offers a fully accessible interpretive trail to Lost Lake at the southern end. Inspiring scenery doesn't always require a grueling climb, and there are plenty of sweet views with easy access. Advertisement The Civilian Conservation Corps left its mark with stone arch bridges spanning Pea's Creek – Photo courtesy of Harold Rail You can't miss the handiwork of the Civilian Conservation Corps from the 1930s. The Depression-era craftsmen left their mark with stone arch bridges spanning Pea's Creek, carefully constructed trail steps that blend seamlessly with the natural landscape, and sturdy shelters in Oak Woods and Lower Ledges that have weathered decades of Iowa seasons. Where to camp at Ledges State Park Families wade in Pea's Creek before camping at Ledges State Park – Photo courtesy of Iowa DNR Recently renovated campsites offer a fresh take on Ledges State Park camping, complete with modern amenities that'll keep the crew happy, including tidy restrooms, hot showers, a trailer dump station, and even a playground for the little hikers. For adventurous souls who scoff at electrical hookups, the park offers primitive hike-in sites that deliver a back-to-nature experience. These spots require a bit of effort to reach, but the payoff is solitude and an intimate connection with the park's wild side. Smart campers book ahead through the online reservation system; prime spots fill up fast, especially during peak fall foliage season. Please note that the camping season runs from March to November, with winter bringing a complete shutdown from December to February. Advertisement Can't book a campsite? Consider nearby camp areas, such as Greenhouse Camping, which was named one of the best Hipcamps to visit in 2025. Just minutes from the park, Boone has guest houses, affordable chain hotels, and Iowa Small Town Properties to rent in the charming town. Places to eat near Ledges State Park The Iowa pork tenderloin sandwich at The Lucky Pig is peak Midwest eating – Photo courtesy of Harold Rail All that hiking works up a serious appetite, and Boone County delivers on the food front with options like Jimmy's BBQ Pit, serving Texas-style smoky goodness, and Van Hemert's Dutch Oven Bakery, tempting with sweets that could derail any post-hike diet plans. For the full Iowa experience, The Lucky Pig Pub & Grill is nonnegotiable for its award-winning Iowa pork tenderloin sandwich paired with a slice of pie made by an actual farm granny. It's peak Midwest dining. Trains ride through the Des Moines River Valley on the Boone & Scenic Valley Railroad – Photo courtesy of Harold Rail You can book the leisurely dinner ride on the Boone & Scenic Valley Railroad, which combines scenic views with comfortable seating. When evening rolls around, Madrid's cyclist-friendly Flat Tire Lounge on the High Trestle Trail offers drinks and live music for unwinding after your outdoor adventures. Advertisement To cap off a day of hiking, Chrysalis Healing Center offers therapeutic massages for your sore calves and ionic foot baths to pamper your overworked tootsies. The sibling tea shop specializes in healthy snacks and healing teas targeting everything from energy boosts to inflammation relief. More things to do in Boone County, Iowa Trains offer an exhilarating ride over the Bass Point Creek High Trestle – Photo courtesy of Rail Explorers USA Your Ledges State Park adventure doesn't have to end at the park boundaries. The surrounding area serves up additional thrills that pair perfectly with your canyon exploration. I had a serious fear of heights, but Rail Explorers USA offers an exciting twist on sightseeing with pedal-assisted railbikes that follow the Boone and Scenic Valley Railway along 12.5 miles of track. It's part workout, part scenic tour, and entirely unforgettable as you pedal through sweeping panoramic views high above the Des Moines River Valley. The ride through the forest and over the Bass Creek High Trestle and the Des Moines River Bridge provided a cool breeze during a hot and humid morning. There are also sunset and evening rides. Don't miss it! Advertisement The High Trestle Trail is a favorite of bikers and hikers – Photo courtesy of Catch Des Moines
The Guardian
27-05-2025
- Climate
- The Guardian
Wildfire damages historic Fort Stanton, forces evacuations in New Mexico
A wildfire swept through portions of a civil war-era fort and historical site in southern New Mexico on Monday, forcing the evacuations of campgrounds and a horse ranch. The fire damaged structures at Fort Stanton historical site built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s and a gym erected by Germans interned at the site during World War II after their ship sank. Ground crews, air tankers and helicopters joined efforts to contain a blaze that scorched more than a square mile (3 square kilometers) of terrain at the site and surrounding conservation lands managed by the federal Bureau of Land Management (BLM). Laura Rabon, a spokesperson for a multiagency team responding to the situation, said crews cleared lines of vegetation Monday on the north side of the wildfire and helicopters doused smoldering hot spots with water. The fire was contained along 4% of its boundary. The blaze at Fort Stanton is about 15 miles (24km) away from communities at Ruidoso that were ravaged by wildfires last year when several hundred homes and businesses were destroyed. Those fires were followed by devastating flooding and erosion in scorched areas. Separately in Arizona, more than 500 firefighters and support personnel had largely contained the boundaries of a wildfire northeast of Tucson, in the Santa Catalina mountains, that has destroyed five homes in the community of Oracle. Evacuations were rescinded in some residential areas – but not all – on Monday. Fire activity at Fort Stanton decreased amid mild high temperatures Monday of 75F (24C) and 10 mph (16 kph) winds. The source of the fire was unknown, with a BLM investigator scheduled to begin work on Tuesday. Horses and a family of four were first evacuated on Sunday from a private ranch in the vicinity, but they had been allowed to return. On Sunday, air tankers dropped fire retardant on the outskirts of the fire in efforts to slow its progress. Highway 220 was closed near Fort Stanton to ensure access for firefighting crews, as more than 70 people fought the fire. Fort Stanton historical site was closed, and three nearby camping areas were evacuated.
Nahar Net
27-05-2025
- Climate
- Nahar Net
Wildfire damages Civil War-area historical site in New Mexico
by Naharnet Newsdesk 27 May 2025, 15:01 A wildfire swept through portions of a Civil War-era fort and historical site in southern New Mexico, forcing the evacuations of campgrounds and a horse ranch, authorities said Monday. The fire damaged structures at Fort Stanton Historical Site built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s and a gym erected by Germans interned at the site during World War II after their ship sank. Ground crews, air tankers and helicopters joined efforts to contain a blaze that scorched more than a square mile (3 square kilometers) of terrain at the site and surrounding conservation lands managed by the federal Bureau of Land Management. Laura Rabon, a spokesperson for a multiagency team responding to the situation, said crews cleared lines of vegetation Monday on the north side of the wildfire and helicopters doused smoldering hot spots with water. The fire was contained along 4% of its boundary. The blaze at Fort Stanton is about 15 miles (24 kilometers) away from communities at Ruidoso that were ravaged by wildfires last year when several hundred homes and businesses were destroyed. Those fires were followed by devastating flooding and erosion in scorched areas. Separately in Arizona, more than 500 firefighters and support personnel had largely contained the boundaries of a wildfire northeast of Tuscon, in the Santa Catalina Mountains, that has destroyed five homes in the community of Oracle. Evacuations were rescinded in some residential areas — but not all — on Monday. Fire activity at Fort Stanton decreased amid mild high temperatures Monday of 75 degrees (24 Celsius) and 10 mph (16 kph) winds. The source of the fire was unknown, with a BLM investigator scheduled to begin work Tuesday. Horses and a family of four were first evacuated Sunday from a private ranch in the vicinity, but they had been allowed to return. On Sunday, air tankers dropped fire retardant on the outskirts of the fire in efforts to slow its progress. Highway 220 was closed near Fort Stanton to ensure access for firefighting crews, as more than 70 people fought the fire. Fort Stanton Historical Site was closed and three nearby camping areas were evacuated.
27-05-2025
- Climate
Wildfire damages Civil War-area historical site in New Mexico as campgrounds are evacuated
SANTA FE, N.M. -- A wildfire swept through portions of a Civil War-era fort and historical site in southern New Mexico, forcing the evacuations of campgrounds and a horse ranch, authorities said Monday. The fire damaged structures at Fort Stanton Historical Site built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s and a gym erected by Germans interned at the site during World War II after their ship sank. Ground crews, air tankers and helicopters joined efforts to contain a blaze that scorched more than a square mile (3 square kilometers) of terrain at the site and surrounding conservation lands managed by the federal Bureau of Land Management. Laura Rabon, a spokesperson for a multiagency team responding to the situation, said crews cleared lines of vegetation Monday on the north side of the wildfire and helicopters doused smoldering hot spots with water. The fire was contained along 4% of its boundary. The blaze at Fort Stanton is about 15 miles (24 kilometers) away from communities at Ruidoso that were ravaged by wildfires last year when several hundred homes and businesses were destroyed. Those fires were followed by devastating flooding and erosion in scorched areas. Separately in Arizona, more than 500 firefighters and support personnel had largely contained the boundaries of a wildfire northeast of Tuscon, in the Santa Catalina Mountains, that has destroyed five homes in the community of Oracle. Evacuations were rescinded in some residential areas — but not all — on Monday. Fire activity at Fort Stanton decreased amid mild high temperatures Monday of 75 degrees (24 Celsius) and 10 mph (16 kph) winds. The source of the fire was unknown, with a BLM investigator scheduled to begin work Tuesday. Horses and a family of four were first evacuated Sunday from a private ranch in the vicinity, but they had been allowed to return. On Sunday, air tankers dropped fire retardant on the outskirts of the fire in efforts to slow its progress. Highway 220 was closed near Fort Stanton to ensure access for firefighting crews, as more than 70 people fought the fire. Fort Stanton Historical Site was closed and three nearby camping areas were evacuated.
Yahoo
27-05-2025
- Climate
- Yahoo
Camp Fire now at 720 acres, 4% contained
EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) – A brush fire burning near Fort Stanton in Lincoln County is now at 720 acres with 4 percent containment, the New Mexico State Forestry Division announced on Monday, May 26. Crews drop over 30K gallons of fire retardant on Camp Fire The fire ignited on Sunday, May 25, but the cause has not been determined. Fort Stanton is about 30 miles northeast of Ruidoso. Camp Fire burning in Lincoln County near Fort Stanton The Forestry Division said most of the burned acres occurred on Sunday, as there was minimal fire spread on Monday. Helicopters made targeted water drops on hot spots still smoldering. Fire crews worked to remove burning material near the control lines to reduce the chance of it escaping the control lines and reigniting. Smoke could still be seen in the area, the Forestry Division said. The Forestry Division said the area affected by the fire is a specially managed area by the BLM and the State of New Mexico. The BLM-managed land is part of the Fort Stanton- Snowy River Cave National Conservation Area, and the state land involved in the fire is the historic fort, managed by the New Mexico Department of Cultural Affairs. Three historical structures were damaged at Fort Stanton, including two wooden structures from the 1930s built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) and a gymnasium built in 1944 by German sailors who were picked up after their ship sunk, the Forestry Division said. The Forestry Division said cloud cover, moderate temperatures, and milder winds helped to moderate fire behavior on Monday. A thunderstorm warning is in effect for the area Monday evening, and there is a chance of rain again on Tuesday afternoon, May 27, the Forestry Division said. The Forestry Division said evacuations remain for the Fort Stanton, Rob Jaggers Campground, and the Rio Bonito and West Mesa Road dispersed camping areas. Fort Stanton is closed to the public. Highway 220 is closed in the Fort Stanton area, the Forestry Division said. 'BLM Roswell District, Lincoln County and the NM Forestry Division are all under fire restrictions or a burn ban. Campfires of any kind (wood, charcoal, wood stoves), chainsaw use, smoking outdoors, operating motorized vehicles off designated roads and welding are all prohibited,' read the news release by the Forestry Division. To view full fire restrictions, click here. Additionally, an interactive smoke map here allows you to zoom into your area to see the latest smoke conditions. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
