Preparation Canyon State Park Ridge Trail
Mormon pioneer route through Iowa's deepest canyon
This isn’t your typical Iowa farmland—Preparation Canyon drops 200 feet through sandstone bluffs that the Mormon pioneers called “the gates of hell” when they tried hauling wagons through in 1853. The old wagon road, now Forest Service Road 12, follows Preparation Creek through narrows so tight that spring floods regularly wash out the wooden bridges. Rock ledges jut into the creek bed at Devil’s Backbone, forcing drivers to pick lines between boulders the size of refrigerators while dodging low-hanging sycamore branches.
Moderate difficulty requiring 4WD and skid plates—those creek crossings will find your lowest points fast. Avoid during spring snowmelt when the creek runs bank-full and angry. No permits, but gates close November through March for wildlife protection. Primitive camping allowed at the old CCC camp ruins if you can find a flat spot. What makes this special is experiencing Iowa’s most rugged terrain where Mormon handcart companies literally carved steps into the canyon walls.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Technical 4x4 |
| Surface | Rock |
| Features | Historic, Remote, Water Crossings |
| Length (miles) | 12 mi / 19.3 km |
| Duration | Half day |
| Max elevation (ft) | 1240 ft |
| Best season | May-October |
| Minimum vehicle | 4WD with skid plates |
| Nearest town | Moorhead, Iowa |
| Land manager | Iowa Department of Natural Resources |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | None |
| Water crossings | Yes |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| 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 Jeep Wrangler handle this trail?
Yes, but you'll want skid plates for the rocky creek crossings. Stock clearance is adequate but the rock surfaces can be hard on unprotected components.
Is the trail accessible during winter months?
The state park closes the ridge trail from November through April due to wet conditions and erosion concerns. Stick to May-October for legal access.
Do I need a permit to drive the Ridge Trail?
No permits required, but there's a standard Iowa state park entry fee. Annual passes are available and worth it if you plan multiple visits.
What's the most challenging part of this trail?
The creek crossings can get sketchy during spring runoff or after heavy rains. Water levels vary significantly and some crossings require careful line selection over slick rock.
Are there places to camp along the trail?
Dispersed camping is allowed in designated areas within the state park boundaries. No facilities, so pack everything in and out.