Adair County…Part 1…Middle River

A couple weeks ago, as part of my Iowa’s99 project, I visited Adair County. After some research I had settled on visiting three locations…Middle River Forest, Ken Sidey Nature Area and Mormon Trail Park. I’m finding that by selecting three different types of natural spaces I am almost always sure to come away with a winner or two. Adair County did not disappoint.

Before I get too deep in the weeds, I would like to mention that just as much as I love exploring these parks and recreation areas, I sincerely enjoy the small towns and rural scenery I get to experience along the way. Quaint downtown squares, rolling hills and incredible vistas for miles…it’s always a true reminder of how beautiful this state is.

Here in central Iowa, it can seem a bit flat, so as I was heading west into Adair County it was fun to see how quickly the topography begins to morph into slow undulating hills. Farm fields go from semi flat to moderate hills to striking terraces.  Towns and housing developments melt away into scattered unincorporated communities and townships, and a whole lot of open roads in between.

Middle River was my wild card. Based on what I was able to find online, I was not entirely sure what sort of park or forest, or boat ramp, I would be exploring. Located 3.6 miles (according to Google Maps) north of highway 92 and approximately 12 miles south of Stuart, Iowa, Middle River Forest Area is as rural as it gets. As one of the main access points to Middle River, this small woodland park has very little in the way of amenities but offers one of the most peaceful access points to a river I’ve seen.

Exploring a river had not entered my mind until I found myself standing on the concrete pad at the river’s edge. I couldn’t help but be fascinated by the calmness of the water here.  It was nearly glass. Maybe I was just fortunate with my timing, but it had me suddenly wishing for a kayak or canoe. Tearing myself away from the serenity of it, I wandered along the long driveway towards the front of the park where I had seen some cut out openings along the river. I was curious now and wanted to see as much of it as I could. No photo opportunities presented themselves, but the calmness remained.

Finally, I found my way to the entrance of a hiking trail away from this section of river and into the woods portion of the park. The trail that day was littered with small branches and twigs from the windstorm that had blown through a couple days prior. Otherwise, it was an easy, mostly grassy trail that led south past two primitive camping spots and towards the sound of rushing water. Within a few minutes I was at the edge of the river again, only here there was a small bit of rapids. As I approached, stepping on a few broken branches and making too much noise, I startled a pair of deer standing on the opposite bank. Before I had a chance to grab my camera they bounded off, up a small hill into thicker woods.

The trail followed the curve of the river and led me back to the small parking area and the more peaceful river access. While not exactly photogenic, I was glad I came to Middle River. Between the peaceful river and a good walk in the woods, I left feeling serene, connected and rejuvenated. That helped me navigate the harsh reality I was due to encounter at my next location, Ken Sidey Nature Area.

Photos:

Section 1: Entrances to Middle River, Ken Sidey Nature Area, Mormon Trail Park

Section 2: 220th & Vinton Ave. in Adair Co. 1 & 2, and windmill across the road from Ken Sidey

Section 3: Middle River Forest Area - river access

Section 4: Middle River Forest Area walking trail and bridge at entrance.