Ledges State Park - Madrid, Iowa - Des Moines Outdoor Fun

Ledges State Park has some of the prettiest scenery in the area, with unique, shallow water crossings over the main road. There are several challenging trails as well as a very accessible one. This is a perfect place to go “creek stomping” with pets and/or kids – be sure to check the DNR website for flooding closings before you go. The main canyon road is currently closed, but read my summer blog post for where to park and walk up! There is easy creek splashing access here, you can see more specific details about how to get into the water in this post.

Information:

Name: Ledges State Park
Address: 1515 P Ave. Madrid, IA 50156
Type: Places to hike & Places to get wet & places to take a walk
Bathrooms: Yes
Shade: Yes, shaded shelter
Playground: No
Trails: Yes, dirt and paved
Water: Yes, river
Other notes: Reserve-able shelters. Water goes over the road in several places, with ample “creek stomping” opportunities for kids. Fishing and canoeing on the river. This park floods easily, check the Iowa DNR website for closures before traveling. Lichen trail with guide: http://www.iowadnr.gov/portals/idnr/uploads/parks/pdfs/ledges_lichen_trail.pdf Trail map: http://www.iowadnr.gov/portals/idnr/uploads/parks/parkmaps/ledgesmap.pdf There is a great overview of the trails on Iowa Parklands; you can click through my blog posts below to read about trails we’ve hiked. There is easy creek splashing access here, you can see more specific details about how to get into the water in this post. The main canyon road is currently closed, but read my summer blog post for where to park and walk up!
Official Website: http://www.iowadnr.gov/Places-to-Go/State-Parks-Rec-Areas/Iowas-State-Parks/ParkDetails/ParkID/610148
DSMOF Blog posts: