🏔️ Mount Hosmer Park

Rising 450 feet above downtown Lansing, Mount Hosmer Park offers some of the most spectacular panoramic views of the Mississippi River Valley and the historic Black Hawk Bridge. While the road is closed to vehicles during winter months, many visitors enjoy walking up to the overlooks throughout February for stunning winter vistas.

The LOST Trails at Mount Hosmer feature 7 miles of hiking trails with 3 overlook points. The Beck and Strong Point trail is a popular winter hiking option, offering a 0.8-mile trek with beautiful views.

🌲 Yellow River State Forest

Located just a short drive from Lansing near Harpers Ferry, Yellow River State Forest offers over 8,500 acres of stunning winter recreation. February is an excellent time for:

• Cross-Country Skiing — Designated ski trails are groomed in the Paint Creek and Luster Heights Units
• Snowshoeing — Explore the forest’s 25+ miles of trails
• Winter Hiking — The Paint Creek Unit Loop (12.5 miles) is rated among Iowa’s best trails
• Snowmobiling — Gravel roads transform into snowmobile trails during winter

The forest features Iowa’s only fire tower, stunning limestone bluffs, and year-round camping for the adventurous.

🦅 Driftless Area Education & Visitor Center

This stunning three-story, 10,000 sq. ft. facility is nestled beneath limestone bluffs with scenic Mississippi River views. The center offers interactive exhibits covering the geology, wildlife, and cultural history of Iowa’s unique Driftless Area—a region that escaped glaciation during the last Ice Age.

Highlights include live animal exhibits with native fish, reptiles, and amphibians, plus decks overlooking the Mississippi River where you might spot bald eagles in winter. Don’t miss the 28-minute film “Mysteries of the Driftless” and the gift shop featuring locally made treasures.

🚢 Museum of River History

Explore the rich heritage of the Mississippi River at this local museum located within the Coffee on the River building in downtown Lansing. Displays highlight the history of commercial fishing, clamming, and the early grain business that shaped the town’s development.

🛍️ Downtown Lansing Shopping & Dining

Lansing’s historic Main Street district is home to unique shops and local dining. Stop by Horsefall’s Variety Store—a beloved local institution packed with household items, toys, retro candy, and unexpected treasures. Warm up at Coffee on the River with river views, or explore the charming boutiques and galleries that make this National Historic District special.

🦅 Bald Eagle Watching

February is prime time for bald eagle viewing along the Mississippi River. The open water below Lock and Dam No. 9 near Harpers Ferry (just south of Lansing) attracts eagles hunting for fish. Bring binoculars and dress warmly for an unforgettable wildlife experience. Eagles can also be spotted from the overlooks at Mount Hosmer Park and the decks at the Driftless Area Visitor Center.