Upper Iowa River Access Area — Attraction in Iowa

Wonderful little hike from the Bluffton Road to Malanephy Springs. About a half-hour each way, so bring some water and a snack. Most of the path is nearly level, though you might want to scramble about the embankment at the springs. The water is cold year round (under 60 degrees F). The stream meanders about 70 yards before dropping into the Upper Iowa River.

Be a little cautious if going to the actual spring, the ground is slick with packed dirt on the steep hill. Also the small bluff immediately above has many fissures - eventually erosion will cause a brief but potentially dangerous rockfall. This would most likely happen in late winter or...

A mile walk in, you will find the Malanaphy springs waterfall. This is a rarely found trail with entrance barely visible. It has about 5 parking spots. There may be fallen trees to go around, over or under. It is a paradise! I am a solo hiker and was extra careful to avoid mishaps. Cell service is spotty. I advise not going alone if you can help it or let someone know where you went if you do not return. Going early morning is cool and peaceful with many birds singing. If you enjoy nature, this heavy wooded area with bluffs is for you! It was my favorite trail here in Decorah. Picture just a picture. In person you can smell and hear...

About 30 minutes of walking along the river and through the forest with lots of plants and wildlife with the falls at the end. The hike is fairly easy even for me who doesnt hike much and has severe asthma. Theres a couple spots where its a little strenuous and I had to stop to catch my breath. The falls are beautiful! Getting down to the river to see the bottom of the falls was a bit of a chore and probably can't be achieved by someone who can't or isnt willing to climb like a monkey over dirt and rocks and fallen trees to get down to it. But even the upper falls is worth the walk! Would recommend and will be...