Ultimate Family Guide to Pikes Peak State Park, Iowa: Best Hikes and Overlooks

This post may contain affiliate links to trusted partners.

If you’re looking for a scenic and family-friendly outdoor adventure in Iowa, Pikes Peak State Park is a must-visit!

Located in McGregor, this park offers stunning views of the Mississippi River, easy hiking trails, and a fun experience for both kids and adults.

Our family had an amazing time exploring the park, and we especially loved hiking to Bridal Veil Falls.

Stunning Views from the Overlooks

Imagine this–you step out of your car and start walking towards the park. In the distance, you see a vast stretch of blue that you can’t tell if it’s the Mississippi or the sky.

The sight is so mesmerizing that our kids couldn’t help but run ahead, eager to get a closer look. They took the closest sidewalk they could see, leading straight to the Lower Overlook.

The sidewalk is long and surrounded by trees on both sides, making it feel like you’re running on a path toward the most beautiful spot in the world.

We all just wanted to make it to see the blue!

The Lower Overlook has a railing at the edge, past which you can see for miles. There are also benches where you can sit and soak in the view.

It was a little hazy when we visited, but still absolutely beautiful!

We then walked (and ran) up the hill towards the Upper Overlook, which has two levels.

Both levels were equally amazing, offering panoramic views of the marsh and Upper Mississippi River Valley.

There are so many great photo spots here, making it a must-stop for families wanting to capture the scenery.

After checking out the overlooks, we headed on the trail to Bridal Veil Falls.

One thing we loved about Pikes Peak State Park is how well-marked the trails are—signage is clear and easy to follow, making it simple to navigate and know exactly where to go.

Family-Friendly Hike to Bridal Veil Falls

My favorite part of our visit to Pikes Peak State Park was the hike to Bridal Veil Falls.

It was the perfect trail for kids because it’s entirely on a boardwalk or steps, making it easy to navigate and keep track of everyone!

Our kids had a blast running up and down the steps, and since the trail is surrounded by trees, it stays well-shaded even on a hot summer day.

The hike to Bridal Veil Falls is relatively short (just .5 mile one way), but it’s a rewarding one!

The waterfall itself is a peaceful and beautiful spot, great for taking a break and snapping some family photos. It is also quite small but quaint.

If you’re visiting with younger kids, this is a great trail since it’s engaging but not too challenging.

My two year old walked (and ran) the whole trail. He was so excited to be a part of this hike!

Plan on doing this hike—it’s a fun and doable one for the whole family!

Tips for Visiting Pikes Peak State Park with Kids

• Wear comfortable shoes – Even though the trails are easy to navigate, there are a lot of steps, so sturdy shoes are helpful. 🥾

• Bring water and snacks – There are numerous picnic areas throughout the park, perfect for having a snack or lunch. Make sure to bring water to stay hydrated as well! 🧺

• Visit early or late in the day – The overlooks can get busy, especially on weekends. Arriving early or visiting later in the day means fewer crowds and cooler temperatures in the summer. 🌅

• Pack bug spray – Like most wooded areas, the park can have mosquitos, especially in the warmer months. When we visited, it was extremely buggy, so bug spray is a must! 🦟

• Don’t skip the visitor center (although we ran right by it to go to the Overlooks!) – It’s a great spot to learn more about Pikes Peak State Park, grab a map, and use the restrooms before heading out on the trails. 🧭

Other Family-Friendly Attractions Near Pikes Peak State Park

If you’re making a day trip out of your visit, consider exploring nearby McGregor and Marquette.

These river towns are so charming and offer cute shops and local restaurants.

If your family enjoys hiking and history, Effigy Mounds National Monument is a great stop, featuring ancient Native American burial mounds and scenic trails along the Mississippi River.

We spent some time here as well, and it’s a fantastic way to add more adventure to your trip.

For a completely different experience, Spook Cave is just a short drive from Pikes Peak State Park.

Located just a short drive from Pikes Peak State Park, Spook Cave offers a unique boat tour through a flooded cave. If you’re looking for something different after hiking, Spook Cave is a great addition to your itinerary.

If you’re planning a road trip through Iowa with kids, another iconic stop worth considering is a family-friendly experience at the Field of Dreams, located about an hour away from Pikes Peak State Park. This famous site is perfect for baseball fans and anyone wanting to experience a piece of movie history.

Located about an hour away from Pikes Peak State Park, this famous site is perfect for baseball fans and anyone wanting to experience a piece of movie history at the Field of Dreams.

Why Pikes Peak State Park is Perfect for a Family Adventure

Pikes Peak State Park is a fantastic destination for families who love the outdoors.

With easy and scenic hiking trails, breathtaking Mississippi River overlooks, and the kid-friendly Bridal Veil Falls hike, it’s a park that offers both adventure and relaxation.

Whether you’re planning a quick stop or a full day of exploring, this top-rated Iowa state park is a spot you won’t want to miss in Northeast Iowa!

Download my complimentary travel itinerary planner to help you plan your trip to Pikes Peak State Park or wherever your next adventure takes you!

May you LOVE your adventure! KW