COLUMN: Visit Whitewater and Lost Canyon

     The term “canyon” is not one you usually hear or see on a map in a state like Iowa. The definition of canyon is a deep valley with steep sides often with a stream running through it. The term usually brings large open western states to mind with grand vistas like those found at the Grand Canyon or the Royal Gorge. Yet, here in Iowa, tucked away where Dubuque, Jackson, and Jones Counties meet are two special canyons –Whitewater Canyon and Lost Canyon.

     Whitewater Canyon and Lost Canyon together include 561 acres of a geological treasure trove, a literal open page into Iowa’s geological past. Fossils and bedrock are exposed throughout the canyons for young and old alike to feel and look on in awe. Colonial coral and brachiopod fossils seem to pop out of the area bedrock as you stroll past. Nooks and crannies seem to call you inward to investigate their hidden secrets.

     For the unaware, Whitewater Canyon area may look like any other rolling hillside in Iowa, but as you walk through the upland timber and emerge above the valley floor you quickly become aware of why they call this valley a canyon. Awe-inspiring views of the valley, its sheer 150 foot rock walls, and the sparkling winding creek below seem to take your breath away.

     Those who venture into Lost Canyon may have the eerie feeling as though they are being watched. The Valley of 13 Caves is lined with small caves and large rock shelters – many only yards away from the trail hidden from view until the sentinel trees standing guard drop their leaves exposing these hidden recesses.

     As you hike you begin to notice the prairie remnant plants clinging to life on the exposed bluffs and the Canada yews and ferns lining the moist and rocky recesses of the ledges. Oak and hickory trees thrive in the upland forested areas while cottonwoods and maples dominate the bottomlands. A great diversity of other tree species find their niches among the habitats provided.

     Hand in hand with the plants and habitats here you will find a great variety of birds, insects, reptiles, amphibians, and mammals. Large woodland millipedes crawl across the forest floor, eagles soar overhead, wild turkey skirt the woodland edges, five-lined skink lizards dart over bedrock outcrops, coyotes keep to the shadows, and mudpuppies stay submerged hidden from view in Whitewater and Lost Creek.

     If you like to hike and explore, the mowed trails of Whitewater and Lost Canyon are calling your name. Stop out on Sunday, Sept. 17 from 9 a.m. to noon and participate in the Dubuque, Jackson, and Jones County Conservation Boards Whitewater Canyon Volunteer Field Day as we make some improvements to hiking trails and tag monarch butterflies. Bring your work gloves and some water and lend a hand.

     For more information, visit http://www.jonescountyiowa.org/events-programs.