Palisades-Kepler State Park is located just North of Iowa City, Iowa along the Cedar River. The Cedar Cliff Trail is a moderate 2.0 mile out and back trail suitable for all ages. The trail follows the Cedar River and views from the cliffs abound. The trail is well worn earth with occasional stairs and exposed roots. After a rain the trail may become slippery or muddy. The trail winds through a hardwood forest and is well marked, as are the spur trails. Stay on the marked trails as the cliff area, along the river side, may be slippery. Falls from the cliff may be deadly. Not all park trails intersect, but Cool Hollow does. Take your time and enjoy the trails. A map of the trails can be found at https://www.iowadnr.gov/Places-to-Go/State-Parks/Iowa-State-Parks/ParkDetails/parkid/610113
There are several picnic sites available adjacent to the Cedar River Trail parking lot. Other picnic areas along with rental cabins, campground and restroom facilities can be located throughout the park. After a hike and lunch, try your hand at fishing the Cedar River. The park also has several boat launch areas. When the river is low there is a sandbar along the banks of the park and swimming in the Cedar River is allowed. However; currents in the Cedar River are swift.
Getting Started
Palisades-Kepler State Park is located just North of Iowa City, Iowa in Mt Vernon. The Cedar Cliff Trailhead is located at the north end of Kepler Dr. adjacent to a small parking lot. The trailhead is clearly marked. The Park is open from 04:30 AM to 10:00 PM Daily. Parking is free. Parking along the roadway in the park is not allowed. There are restroom facilities available at the Cedar Cliff Trailhead. There are also connecting trails that connect the cabins and campground to the Cedar Cliff Trail.
When to Go
The park is popular with families for hiking and camping and is busy on the weekends, holidays and during the summer months. Arrive early and hike and enjoy a picnic afterwards. During the summer months wildflowers are in bloom, but in the fall the hardwood trees of the forest come to life with their color.