South Entrance, Mines of Spain Recreation Area

A fantastic (huge) park with a variety of trails and environs. We took the road less traveled on the Eagle Scout trail (I can't remember the exact name at the moment). It's the first parking area in the south entrance and you take a different trail to get there. The local guide page recommended this trail because so many fewer people walk it. I agree! It starts in a prairie and winds its way into a forest, along the river, and off a less beaten path to the railway tracks along the river (beware these are active freight tracks!). Bring plenty of water and apply insect spray. If it's rained recently, you'll run into a few muddy spots in the woods. You'll likely see birds, millipedes, toads, spiders, and maybe even salamanders. It's not an overly exertive walk, but there are grades to it. Definitely worth it for the solitude.

Mines of Spain State Recreation Area near Dubuque, Iowa boasts a rich history and natural beauty. This location was once used for lead mining and is now a National Historic Landmark with village sites, rock shelters, and trading post locations scattered throughout the landscape. The Julien Dubuque Monument, dedicated to the first European settler in the area, provides a great view of the Mississippi River and serves as a landmark for the park. Visitors can explore the area through a variety of trails and learn about the state's history at the E.B. Lyons Interpretive Center. In addition, programs are offered throughout the year and special arrangements can be made with the park staff. Park offers 15.1 miles of trails for hiking or biking. These trails showcase the park's beauty by providing views of towering limestone bluffs and scenic vistas. The American State Park Woodland Walk at the interpretive center explores the history of different trees and the Horseshoe Bluff trail and the John and Alice Butler trail are ADA accessible. This is a great location for hunting enthusiasts as it is a wildlife management area that allows trapping and archery hunting in all seasons. Limited firearm hunting for deer and spring turkey is allowed south of Catfish Creek. Visitors can also enjoy a picnic at various locations throughout the park, including the E.B. Lyons Interpretive Center, the Julien Dubuque Monument, and the Horseshoe Bluff Area. Enjoy your activities!

A beautiful park for a hike! The trail we chose was not too difficult but had nice scenery. We'd love to come back to explore further soon.

Gorgeous trail. Spectacular scenery, well kept

Walked the 6 mile Eagle Scout loop this morning. It was well maintained 2-track. The grassy portions were mowed. Mid-August morning and no mosquitoes. Beautiful scenery.

Beautiful park, great hike

Great place for a trail run.

A Dubuque must-see (more like must-experience) for the nature lovers, fitness-minded, exploratory, history buffs, and the bring the kids, too! Walking trails, barbeque pits, an educational center, canoe launch, decent fishing... All easily accessible. What are you waiting for? Get off your duffs and go see it!