Shimek State Forest Ridge Road
Iowa's pre-settlement forest time machine
Shimek State Forest harbors Iowa’s largest oak-hickory remnant, and this ridge road system opens up 9,000 acres most folks never see. The main route follows the watershed divide between Crooked Creek and Lick Creek, passing through prescribed burn units where blackened oak trunks tell stories of Iowa’s pre-settlement fire ecology. At Devils Backbone overlook, you’re staring across the Des Moines River valley toward Illinois bluffs 12 miles away.
Standard pickup truck territory when dry, but spring mud seasons turn the clay base treacherous without 4WD. Fire management gates close the system during extreme fire danger, typically late summer. No permits required, dispersed camping allowed with landowner permission from adjacent private holdings. Best visited September through November when oak colors peak and hunting pressure stays manageable. You’re exploring what Iowa looked like before the plow, complete with turkey, deer, and the occasional timber rattler sunning on warm rocks.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Easy |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Scenic Drive |
| Surface | Gravel |
| Features | Historic, Remote, Scenic |
| Length (miles) | 24 mi / 38.6 km |
| Duration | Full day |
| Max elevation (ft) | 720 ft |
| Best season | September-November |
| Minimum vehicle | Stock high-clearance |
| Nearest town | Farmington, Iowa |
| Land manager | Iowa Department of Natural Resources |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | Spotty |
| Water crossings | Yes |
| Dispersed camping | No |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
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| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can a stock Subaru Outback handle Shimek State Forest Ridge Road?
Yes, any stock vehicle with decent ground clearance will be fine on this maintained gravel road. It's more of a scenic forest drive than a technical 4WD trail.
Is the trail accessible during Iowa winters?
The road is not maintained for snow removal and can become impassable during heavy snow or ice conditions. Spring can also be muddy after snowmelt.
Do I need any permits to drive through Shimek State Forest?
No permits required for driving the main forest roads, but camping requires reservations at designated areas through the Iowa state park system.
What's the most challenging part of this trail?
There really isn't one - this is an easy gravel road suitable for any vehicle. The biggest challenge is navigating the network of unmarked forest roads without getting turned around.
Are there water crossings I should know about?
Yes, there are a few small creek crossings, but they're typically shallow and bridged or have good gravel bottoms. Nothing that requires 4WD in normal conditions.