Bixby State Preserve, Protected area in Clayton County, Iowa, US
Bixby State Preserve is a protected area in Clayton County, in northeastern Iowa, covering mature hardwood forests and Bear Creek, a trout stream that runs through the property. The land has a varied topography, with wooded hills, rocky slopes, and a clear stream visible from several points along the trails.
Iowa set this land aside as a state preserve to protect the algific talus slopes and woodland of Clayton County, formations that had become rare elsewhere in the state. Over time, trails and access points were developed, though some road entrances were closed in the 2010s for safety reasons.
The preserve is known for its algific talus slopes, where cold air seeps out of the rock and allows plants to grow that are normally found much farther north. Visitors who walk slowly along the trail can often spot these unusual plant communities clinging to the shaded hillside.
The south entrance is generally open in summer, while the north road access may be restricted, so it is worth checking current conditions before setting out. The terrain can be uneven and wet in places, so sturdy footwear is a good idea regardless of the season.
The preserve contains an ice cave that stays below freezing all year because of the way cold air moves through cracks in the rock, even on the hottest summer days. Stepping inside feels noticeably colder than the air just outside the entrance, which catches many visitors off guard.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
