If you getting sick of winter and want to dream of an amazing summer getaway, check out this hidden Iowa paradise!

There is a stretch of the Upper Iowa River by Decorah, IA that is just breathtaking.

The scenery along this northeastern Iowa trek is comprised of Oak trees, Maples, Pines, and many other varieties of trees that fill the limestone cliffs.

Decorah, Ia-Google Maps
Decorah, Ia-Google Maps
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The last time I floated down the Upper Iowa River we got on the water just northwest of a little town called Bluffton.

There are a number of entry points where you can launch your vessel and many places where you can exit the river.

You can design a trip that lasts for just an hour or much longer if you prefer.

The Upper Iowa River - Ben Davis
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If you don't have a canoe or kayak there are many places where you can rent them along with paddles and life vests.

There are also some fine Airbnb accommodations in the area. I have stayed at The Tuckaway just outside of Decorah.

This wonderful Airbnb is in the lower level of a house located in the wooded countryside just minutes from many places where you can launch canoes and kayaks on the Upper Iowa River.

The Tuckaway Decorah, Iowa - Ben Davis
"The Tuckaway" Decorah, Iowa - Ben Davis
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The hosts of The Tuckaway provided a very comfortable place to stay.

The location included a large bedroom and bathroom along with a spacious living room that offered an awesome view of the woods and hills just out of your door.

"The Tuckaway" Decorah, Iowa - Ben Davis
"The Tuckaway" Decorah, Iowa - Ben Davis
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Plan to pack a lunch, snacks, and beverages for your water adventure.

The flow of the river is usually just steady with a couple of riffles that will provide a bit more of an exciting pace.

The main thing you'll want to do is prepare to relax and enjoy the amazing vistas.

The Upper Iowa River - Ben Davis
The Upper Iowa River - Ben Davis
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The Upper Iowa River - Ben Davis
The Upper Iowa River - Ben Davis
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The Upper Iowa River - Ben Davis
The Upper Iowa River - Ben Davis
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The Upper Iowa River - Ben Davis
The Upper Iowa River - Ben Davis
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The Upper Iowa River - Ben Davis
The Upper Iowa River - Ben Davis
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The Upper Iowa River - Ben Davis
The Upper Iowa River - Ben Davis
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The Upper Iowa River - Ben Davis
The Upper Iowa River - Ben Davis
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The Upper Iowa River - Ben Davis
The Upper Iowa River - Ben Davis
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The Upper Iowa River - Ben Davis
The Upper Iowa River - Ben Davis
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The Upper Iowa River - Ben Davis
The Upper Iowa River - Ben Davis
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The Upper Iowa River - Ben Davis
The Upper Iowa River - Ben Davis
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Weirdest Tourist Traps Even the Locals Love in South Dakota, Minnesota, and Iowa

I don't know if everyone will agree with the writers at Thrillist Travelabout which tourist attractions are the weirdest in the tri-state area.

I mean there are so many strange things to see when you travel. From giant pheasants and fish to giant balls of twine, there's no shortage of kooky, kitsch in the tri-state area.


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