Review:

Encompassing just over 2,000 acres, Backbone State Park was the first state park in Iowa. It features a lake that offers excellent swimming and fishing, and there are 21 miles of hiking trails meandering through the forest, some of which are also open to cyclists. However, the highlight of the park is the "Devil's Backbone", a narrow limestone ridge that can be reached by climbing up a steep, rocky staircase. Plenty of excellent rock climbing and rappelling cliffs can be found in the vicinity of the ridge, and all climbers are required to register at the park office.

1347 129th St, Dundee, IA 52038, Phone: 563-924-2527

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