mines of spain recreation area

Such a great asset for Dubuque. It's a wonderful fitness area, nature area and window on how Dubuque used to be. A trip to Mines of Spain is well worth the time.

The Mines of Spain is a wonderful destination for nature lovers. You can walk a number of trails, some are challenging some are along the base of the bluff. For those who choose not to walk/hike much of the scenery can be enjoyed in the comfort of your vehicle. Their is a monument dedicated to the founder of our city Julien Dubuque which overlooks the Mississippi River. One can kyak or canoe on Catfish Creek which flows into the backwaters of the Mississippi. Eagles, hawks and other birds can be spotted above, while deer, fox wild turkey might be spooted in the woods. A great experience can be had all four seasons.

We discovered this tucked away gem after a boat ride on the Mississippi. We found the park driving around. There were signs, no worries.

While the visitor centre was interesting in detailing the mining of lead in the area the surrounding park had walks that were not clearly marked and somewhat confusing. Might be better in the summer.

The state of Iowa must have some financial hardships. We were visiting from Wisconsin and expected better. No one at Ranger station, not even a trail map. The trails were very poorly marked, if at all. The box Canyon was beautiful and the view magnificent, but we got lost several times, asked directions and still missed the trail head. We got frustrated, and left.There was no entrance fee, maybe they should charge and make some improvements.

Another must stop for anyone visiting and wanting to learn about the cultural indian and explorers plus the river history. Look for the signs on the south side of Dubuque, as it is just a few minutes drive from downtown.

Went first to Eagles Point but it is basically a very pretty park. We wanted a hike/walk for exercise and this is the spot. Take the walk through the quarry/canyon and climb up as far as you wish. The view is wonderful. There are only outhouse type facilities and no water that we saw.

This area incorporates many things for people with different interests. The EB Lyons nature center on site has excellent exhibits about the area and the animals found with in. There is an indoor bird blind/feeder area where you can watch the birds eat at a number of different feeders (bring your bird book). There is a children's area with a small aquarium and herp exhibits of local fauna. If you're into hunting there's that too. If you'd like to take a hike or cycle there were trails and more than you could do in a day if you were so inclined. We spent about an hour and had a great time. Kids 3 and 6 really enjoyed it.

Now I can tell all my friends I've been to the mines of Spain and pique their curiosity. We didn't see any mine but the abandoned quarry looks like a natural canyon. One warning - finding the visitor center can be confusing.

If you like to hike and spend time in the woods with amazing views of the Mississippi River then you need to spend time here!

Got to spend several hours hiking around this wonderful park located only minutes from downtown Dubuque, what a great location. Some fabulous scenery that includes the Mississippi River and the location where Julien Dubuque mined for lead. Can't wait too go back to spend more time exploring.

Really a great view of the area from the Julien Dubuque Monument and trails all over the place. Another great DBQ spot for visitors to see.

Considered the first European settler to visit the northeast Iowa area, Julien Dubuque left a legacy.Iowa’s eighth-largest city is named after the French-Canadian fur trader.Dubuque settled in the area during the late 1780s. He received permission from the Meskwaki Indians to mine lead during that time. Within the decade, Spain’s control of the region resulted in him obtaining an “official” permit to mine from the Spaniards.Dubuque was befriended by the Native Americans upon his arrival. He “married” the daughter of the Meskwaki chief, Peosta.Dubuque lived the rest of his life in northeast Iowa.Dubuque’s lead mines were named after the Spanish – the Mines of Spain.The Mines of Spain state recreational area is home to Dubuque’s gravesite and monument.The grave is secured inside a castle turret-shaped monument.The monument sits atop a bluff overlooking the Mississippi River and the city bearing Dubuque’s name.Nearby is the grave of Chief Peosta. The Meskwaki are believed to have been in the area for up to 8,000 years before Dubuque arrived.The state recreation area is home to plenty of hiking and walking trails, picnic areas, wetlands, ski trails and a bird and butterfly garden.

This place is amazing. I'm not one for trails, but this place is as good if not better than some national parks. This place is fantastic. One could spend all day there.

We love hiking, and this place offers something for every level of hiker. Or you can just drive through the area and see a lot of things. Julian Dubuque memorial/burial site was cool, and we opted to hike the Horseshoe Bluff trail - went off the main path and climbed up to the top and had a blast. Not for the faint of heart, but my 4 yr old could handle it. Beautiful area, and EB Lyons learning center was cool, too.