Iowa Falls: Calkins Nature Area

 

Calkins Nature Area in Iowa Falls has a lot to offer including a museum, butterfly house, 3 miles of hiking trails, a wildlife exhibit with over 20 species of native wildlife, and a new natural playscape which is expected to open in 2022.

We hiked the forested area and enjoyed views of the Iowa River.

After the hike, my kids spotted the amphitheater and decided to put on a show which was amusing.

Then we headed to the Wildlife Exhibit area, where the wild turkeys and owls were their favorites.

The Nature Center has restrooms and a Natural History Museum that is definitely worth checking out.  My kids enjoyed the scavenger hunt and using the microscope.

We really enjoyed visiting Calkins and look forward to returning next year to check out the new playscape.  Here's a preview of what's to come.