The Hoover Nature Trail at Chinkapin Bluffs is officially OPEN!!  The trail has been previously closed while a large project took place that addressed drainage issues, resurfaced the trail and created a trailhead.  Join us at the Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting Celebration on Saturday, September 26, 2020 at 9:00 am at the new Trailhead.  This is located on the far south side of the Louisa County Fairgrounds at 101 Fairgrounds Road, Columbus Junction.  The Trailhead is just west of the Racetrack Grandstands.  This project was funding with the help of a federal Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) grant, State Rec Trails (SRT) grant, Wellmark Foundation Grant and many more. 

Hike, bike, have a picnic and be sure to take time to look at the view of the Iowa River valley from the overlook.  Chinkapin is a beautiful park every season.

About

Location:

Southeast of Columbus Junction

14198 R Avenue, Columbus Junction, IA 52738

Size: 498 acres

Habitat: : prairie, wetland, forest, cropland, mowed area

Amenities: scenic overlook, playground, picnic shelter (reserve shelter), picnic tables & grills, restrooms with composting toilet, electricity, water

Activities: picniking, hiking, biking, hunting

Hunting: major - deer, turkey, squirrel, minor - rabbit, pheasant

Trails: large system of trails (approx. 4-miles) includes the Hoover Nature Trail with flat crushed limestone base and natural surface trails ranging from level to very steep; flat limestone base trail in picnic area

Special interests: spring wildflowers along trails; prairie demonstration plot

Maps

Downloads: Aerial photo and location map (.pdf);  Brochure with trail map

View Chinkapin Bluffs on Google Maps.

Go to Louisa County Conservation Google Map to see all areas and be able to get directions