Ledges State Park
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
The Ledges State Park is a state park in Iowa in the United States. The park comprises land around area of sandstone cliffs and bluffs next to Des Moines River approximately 4 miles (6 km) south of the city of Boone.
Ledges
Contents |
[edit] Background
The area was designated one of the first of Iowa's state parks in 1924, and is today one of its most visited parks.
The lowland areas of the park are periodically flooded by the Des Moines River. In the 1970s, the state proposed a dam on the Des Moines that would have flooded the streambed areas of the park, but popular outcry forced a cancellation of the proposal. There is a flood pole located in the lowlands of the park which has recorded the various flood levels over the years.
The park includes numerous stone buildings and bridges constructed in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps. Also included in the facilities are numerous campsites, picnic tables, and stone shelters.
[edit] Geology
The sandstone of the cliffs was the remnant of the prehistoric sea that covered the Midwest approximately 300 million years ago. The cliffs themselves are the result of recent glaciation during the last ice age approximately 13,000 years ago, when meltwater carved quickly down through the rock.
[edit] Recreation
Many hiking trails are located throughout the Ledges. Woodlands are located in the park containing mainly basswood, maple, oak, and hickory trees. Prairie and clearings are also located throughout the park. Canoing and fishing is made possible as the Des Moines River runs through the west end of the park.
Rustic or modern campsites are available. Most sites are on a first come, first serve basis but certain sites can be reserved.
[edit] See also
[edit] External links
 |
This Iowa state location article is a stub. You can help Wikipedia by expanding it. |
