Red Rock Roosts Rock

Although the book Hiking Iowa has annual sales of more than 35 copies, Iowa is a flat state and not widely known for it's outdoor wonders. It's easy, as one cruises through on I-80 or I-35, to believe that little more than cornfields and creeks define our landscape. Take any exit, however, and find there are wonders aplenty here. One such wonder is the yearly migration of American Bald Eagles to Lake Red Rock. Between October and March the eagles nest and swoop down to retrieve stunned fish out of the roiling waters beneath the dam. A treat of 70 degrees on Saturday and the end of eagle season compelled me to pack up for a visit to Red Rock. We saw no fewer than eight eagles enjoying the Iowa sunshine Saturday afternoon. A quick lunch and a stop at Jaarsma Bakery in Pella and the day was complete.

MHO: The beehive is an irresistible bakery treat & Jaarsma's is the best I've had.