Whether you want to unplug or gear up, you don't have to search far to find a natural escape in Council Bluffs. Spend your day undisturbed in CB's parks, trails, and natural adventures. This might be uncharted territory for some - but not for you, soon. We've put together an itinerary for the perfect outdoor getaway in Council Bluffs to enjoy in the spring, summer, and fall months!
Spend a day undisturbed in the Loess Hills at Hitchcock Nature Center! Explore some of the largest remaining prairie remnants in Iowa while you hike, camp, picnic, and bird watch at one of the county’s most popular and scenic parks. In the winter, visitors enjoy cross country skiing, snowshoeing, and sledding on the trails.
Hours: 6 a.m. - 10 p.m.
Location: 27792 Ski Hill Loop Honey Creek, IA 51542
Admission: $5 per vehicle, payable with exact change or check at the gate
Enjoy wide-open green space and the best views of the Omaha metro area skyline at Tom Hanafan River’s Edge Park! At the park, you will find multiple Iowa West Public Art pieces and the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge. Don’t forget to go ‘bobbing’ by striking a pose while standing in two states at the same time!
Hours: 5 a.m. - 10 p.m.
Location: 4250 River's Edge Parkway
Admission: Free
The Wabash Trace Nature Trail makes for a scenic evening bike ride, winding through the countryside and the Loess Hills—a rare formation of windblown soils created during the last ice age. The trail is a converted railroad and runs a total of 63 miles. On Thursday nights, you can join other local cyclists on the 20-mile round trip Taco Ride for tacos at Tobey Jack’s Mineola Steak House! During the colder months, visitors enjoy snowshoeing and cross country skiing.
Hours: Open 24 hours
Trailhead Location: 4102 Harry Langdon Blvd Council Bluffs, IA 51503
Admission: $2 per day or $20 per year, payable with exact change at the trailhead or purchase annual passes online
Located close to Hitchcock Nature Center, Stanley's SnackShack uses the freshest local organic ingredients whenever possible to provide you with the best of the Loess Hills. The menu also features its own organic goat cheese and homemade Capretta Gelato.
Hours: Opening for the season on April 22, 2022. Friday - Sunday 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. seasonally. Visit them on Facebook for more information.
Location: 25593 Old Lincoln Highway Honey Creek, IA 51542
Boxer Barbeque is an award-winning restaurant offering lunch, dinner, and carry out and uses only the finest cuts of meat. Enjoy traditional barbeque with a modern twist!
Hours: Tuesday - Thursday 11 a.m. - 9 p.m., Friday - Saturday 11 a.m. - 10 p.m., Sunday 11 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Location: 513 South Main Street Council Bluffs, IA 51503
Hitchcock Nature Center Campground
Arrowhead Park Campground
Botna Bend Park Campground
Horseshoe Casino RV Park
Looking for a hotel in Council Bluffs? You're in luck! Several hotel properties are offering special discounted rates. Browse the packages and book today on our website!