The best walks and hikes in Iowa County

Yes, the area around Stephens' Falls is a highlight for many hikers. The Stephens Falls loop from Ridgeway is a short, easy walk of about 1.2 miles (2 km) that takes you right to this picturesque waterfall within Governor Dodge State Park.

Iowa County has many family-friendly options. For an easy walk with great views, consider the East Tower – West Tower (Sunset) loop from Blue Mounds. It's about 2.3 miles (3.7 km) and offers spectacular panoramic vistas from the highest point in southern Wisconsin, which is always a hit with kids.

Dogs are generally welcome in Wisconsin State Parks, including Governor Dodge and Blue Mound, but they must be on a leash no longer than 8 feet at all times. They are permitted on most trails but are not allowed in picnic areas, on beaches, or in buildings. Always check specific park regulations before you go.

For a longer day hike, the Fox Hollow Beach – Meadow Valley Trailhead loop from Ridgeway is a moderate 6.9-mile (11.1 km) route within Governor Dodge State Park. For a multi-day experience, the 40-mile Military Ridge State Trail passes through the county, offering a crushed limestone path suitable for hiking and backpacking between communities.

For breathtaking panoramic views, head to Blue Mound State Park. It sits atop the highest point in southern Wisconsin, providing spectacular vistas of the surrounding Driftless Area landscape. The trails here are known for their scenic overlooks.

Yes, many of the best trails in Iowa County are loops, allowing you to start and end in the same place without retracing your steps. A great example is the Cox Hollow Lake loop from Ridgeway, a 2-mile (3.2 km) trail that circles the serene Cox Hollow Lake in Governor Dodge State Park.

You can find over 25 hiking routes throughout Iowa County. These range from short, easy walks to more challenging moderate trails, exploring the region's forests, sandstone bluffs, and lakesides.

The trails in Iowa County are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars. Hikers often praise the well-maintained paths, the beautiful scenery of the Driftless Area, and the variety of landscapes, from lakeside loops to forested hills.

Yes, a vehicle admission sticker is required for entry into Wisconsin State Parks like Governor Dodge and Blue Mound. You can typically purchase a daily or annual pass at the park entrance. For the most current fee information, it's best to check the official park websites, such as the one for Governor Dodge State Park.

The terrain is typical of Wisconsin's Driftless Area, meaning you'll encounter rolling hills, some steep climbs up bluffs, and deep valleys. Trails wind through oak and hickory forests, pass by sandstone outcroppings, and follow the shores of lakes. Most paths are natural surface, though some multi-use trails like the Military Ridge State Trail have a crushed limestone surface.

While the region is known for its hills, the Military Ridge State Trail offers a relatively flat and gentle hiking experience. It's a former railway line with a crushed limestone surface, making it an accessible option for those looking to avoid steep climbs. The Twin Valley Lake – Twin Valley Cave loop from Ridgeway is another relatively gentle option with minimal elevation gain.