Tour O'Brien County
Hike the Hanging Valley
Iowa, United States
The Waterman area offers some of the most breath-taking views of nature in the area. Formed during the last ice age by the movement of glaciers, the geographic valley we are nestled near a geographical wonder known as a hanging valley. These glaciers carved the beautiful bluffs, valleys, rivers and lakes we see today. They also deposited some of the richest soil, known as till, in the world.
Tour O'Brien County
Formed during the last ice age by the movement of glaciers
Iowa, United States
A wide variety of prairie plants can be seen on this native and restored site. Prairie management has been intense on this site as cedar tree removal has restored the prairie to its original plant community.
Tour O'Brien County
These glaciers carved the beautiful bluffs, valleys, rivers and lakes
Iowa, United States
The Little Sioux River Valley and the Waterman Creek Valley to the north are a important interior flyway for migrating raptors. On sunny days in September, over 400 raptors a day migrate through the valley. Eagles can be seen soaring through the valley throughout the winter.
Tour O'Brien County
Enjoy the variety of prairie plants and flowers
Iowa, United States
Walking along the Hanging Valley is another experience altogether. To find the hanging valley, you must park at the Waterman Wildlife Area and walk cross country over the hillside. Stop to enjoy the variety of prairie plants and flowers carpeting the hillside. Once you have stepped onto the hanging valley it appears that you are walking along an old tractor road. This is actually the bed of an old river. Walking along you come to a sudden stop as the riverbed drops to its current location 50 feet below you!
Tour O'Brien County
Located along Northwest Iowa's Glacial Trail Scenic Byway
Iowa, United States
The area is so noteworthy in beauty, it is now part of the State of Iowa's Scenic By-Way program and is located along Northwest Iowa's Glacial Trail Scenic Byway.