Chimney Rocks  Photos:  Recent | Best | Popular Lat, Long:  43.4305, -91.9346 Map Page Views:  851. Good page?    Administrator:  Tom Erickson Submitted By:  Tim Olsen on Feb 11, 2010 Make this area a Favorite What's New   Print a Mini-Guide with routes Add Route  Add Photo  Add Comment  Add Event

Private property, though in conservation easement. MORE INFO >>> Ask for permission if at all possible. Take care to minimize all impacts in this Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation (INHF) area. See map; www.inhf.org/destinations/upperiowa/upperiowabend.htm This information is a public crowdsourcing effort between the Access Fund, and Mountain Project. You should confirm closures, restrictions, and/or related dates. Keeping climbing areas open and conserving the climbing environment

Southernmost of the two Chimney Rocks includes a f...

Description 

The Chimney Rocks are treasured, distinctive landmarks perched in ecologically sensitive habitats, on steeply wooded bluffs above a looping bend of the Upper Iowa River. Though frequently viewed from canoes, kayaks and tubes as people float down a river that verges on crowded during warm summer days, they are seldom visited and rarely climbed.

The quality of rock varies in character from delicately dolomitic to friable and frightening. If you can't climb without doing damage, stick to imaginary climbing and reserve the best spots for the raptors.

Getting There 

Paddling down the Upper Iowa River from Kendalville would be the most esthetic approach. Or more simply drive to Bluffton, IA and head north about 2 miles on County Hwy W20, aka Bluffton Rd to the intersection with Pine Creek Rd and park. Walk west 100 yards or thereabouts to the bluffs.

You can also preview the Chimney Rocks location by driving back south less than a mile to take the Chimney Rocks Road to the west. After the bridge over the river look up along the bluffs. Return here later for a scenic stroll and cooling dip in the river.

The Classics