Hiking Wildcat Den State Park

On our annual trip back to the Midwest we took a little road trip to a hidden Iowa gem. Hiking Wildcat Den State Park was an exceptional way to explore Iowa’s history and great outdoors.

Wildcat Den State Park is located just outside of Muscatine, Iowa. This a unique park to explore for the day. The shaded trails lead to beautiful rock formations and stunning views of nature.

Historic Stuctures

There are several historic buildings located at Wildcat Den State Park. The most prominent being the Grist Mill. The mill, built in 1848, is in the process of being renovated. We were not able to tour the mill the day we went, but it states it is open for tours. Check the website for available days and times.

Another important historical building located at the park is the Melpine School. It was also not open for tours the day we went hiking. It is open on Saturdays and Sundays, May – September according to the informational map we found on the hiking trails.

Also walk across the bridge located next to the Grist Mill. This is a great location to take pictures of the mill and surrounding area.

Hiking

The trails at Wildcat Den State Park are exceptional for exploring the natural beauty of Iowa. We were surprised and awed by the different wonders we encountered on these hiking trails. Finding places like the “Devil’s Punch Bowl” really inspires kids to keep moving and exploring the trails.

The hiking trails are rated hard, there are lot of stairs and steps on the trail that can be challenging. Come prepared for a workout.

Plan Your Trip

Hiking the trails of Wildcat Den State Park is a great way to get outside and explore nature, but come prepared.

If you are planning a trip to the park, make sure to bring plenty of water. This is especially important if you hiking in the summer like we were. The trails for the most part are well shaded, but it is a strenuous hike that will challenge you.

You should also wear comfortable, closed toed shoes. Not flip flops like my Florida kid wanted to do. He had to change his shoes before we left.

Also don’t forget the bug spray and sun screen.

My Mom, who went with us, recommends a hiking stick. She did a fantastic job walking the trails with us and the hiking stick help her up and down the hills. You can find one similar to hers here.

Wildcat Den State Park

Wildcat Den State Park is an exceptional park to explore for the day. Picnic areas are located throughout the park. Primitive camping is also available if you like that type of camping.

The day trip to this park made for a wonderful adventure for my family to spend time together with cousins. If you are near the area, I emphatically recommend a trip to see for yourself the beauty this park holds.

Have a great summer exploring and finding new adventures.

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