Ledges State Park

About this park

Ledges State Park, established in 1924 as one of Iowa's first state parks, is known for its sandstone gorge along Pea's Creek, where erosion has carved narrow canyon walls up to 100 feet high. The steep, layered rock formations are unusual for central Iowa's otherwise rolling farmland, and the canyon's cool, shaded microclimate supports plants more typical of northern forests. A one-way scenic drive winds directly through the canyon floor, crossing the creek several times over low-water bridges, making the park's geology accessible even to visitors who prefer not to hike. A CCC-built stone bridge and several original Depression-era structures remain in use, echoing the same conservation-corps history found at many of Iowa's early parks. Above the canyon, the park opens into rolling prairie and woodland with additional hiking trails, picnic areas, and a campground. Ledges is a popular day trip from nearby Des Moines and Ames, and its combination of dramatic canyon scenery and easy access makes it one of the most visited parks in the state park system.