Lewis & Clark Monument Park in Council Bluffs, Iowa not only marks a significant historic moment but also offers amazing views and hiking in the Loess Hills. Overall, we found Lewis & Clark Monument Park to be quite and impressive. We loved exploring this fantastic spot for hiking near Omaha.
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| The Lewis & Clark Monument mark when the Corps of Discovery met with the local Ote and Missouri tribes. |
Stirring Monument Marks Historic Meeting
The monument at Council Bluffs marks the meeting between Lewis & Clark and the local Ote and Missouri tribes. While the more accurate spot of the meeting was actually about 10 miles north on the Missouri River on the Nebraska side, the monument still impresses. The stirring monument consists of two curved stone markers forming a semicircle depicting the meeting. The spectacular stone markers were crafted by sculptor Harry E. Stinson and architect George L. Hinton with dedication in 1936. The Lewis & Clark Monument is part of the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail.
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| Omaha unfolded before us as we stood at the overlook at Lewis & Clark Monument Park. |
Taking in Spectacular Views
Views from the overlook that fans out near the monument awe. We enjoyed incredible views of Omaha, Eppley Airfield and Big Lake Park.
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| Spectacular view of Big Lake as we hiked the Loess Hills. |
Hiking Part of the Loess Hills
Iowa's Loess Hills present an interesting nature adventure. These distinctive bluffs of western Iowa span more than 1,080 miles resting on the eastern side of the Missouri River floodplain. The sandy-clay rolling trails through this section of the Loess Hills gave us a unique hiking experience.
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| The yellow hue of the clay soil of the Loess Hills is distinctive. |
Formed by windblown soil, Loess Hills today are topped with forest and grassland. We enjoyed both on our hike in Council Bluffs. While hiking on the hill edge, I enjoyed peeking at the view from each break in the trees seeing different views of Omaha and Big Lake. We ventured on such a spectacular day and definitely soaked it in!
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| We turned to look back during our hike to see this splendid view! |
Clark described the Loess Hills in his journal comparing them to the head of a bald man. He also expressed that the prairie extended as far as the eye could see. During our hike and one later in the day at Vincent Bluff Nature Preserve, we certainly felt the prairie extended as far as we could see! The sediments of the hills have a yellowy hue which add a unique warmth.
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| Grasslands welcome us forward on our adventure. |
We found no shortage of wildlife and wildflowers on our hike. We even spotted a little lizard! An adorable rabbit hopped in front of us on one trail. Such sweet moments!
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| Natural paths at Lewis & Clark Monument Park took us through forest and grassland. |
Hiking at Lewis & Clark Monument Park ushered us through a distinctive geological landscape and interesting ecosystems. The views and historical significance of the site added to this adventure. Such a great experience to add to your itinerary if you are visiting the Council Bluffs or Omaha area.
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