Hogsback Nature Trail

Hogsback Nature Trail is a perfect dirt trail for kids because it is only 0.3 miles long before it connects back to the paved recreation trail.  The trail is elevated and gives you a sense of floating above the state park as you look down upon the Iowa River and the lower Wildcat Trail below.  After crossing the highway onto the paved portion of the trail, you get to enjoy views of Lower Pine Lake before coming to the beach area, which makes a nice spot to sit and play in the sand or have a snack in the shelter.  Afterwards, you get to walk up into the woods and go through the Beach Tunnel under the highway to get back to the parking area  by the trailhead, which is always a favorite for the kids who love to hear themselves ECHO in the tunnel.