Ride the Iowa Valley Scenic Byway

The Iowa Valley Scenic Byway winds through the farmland and wetlands of the Iowa River Valley in eastern Iowa. The route starts at Tama County Road T-47 off U.S. 30, just east of Le Grand. You’ll continue southeast on a series of country highways—riding through the towns of Montour, Tama, Haven, Chelsea, Belle Plaine, Marengo, before looping through the Amana Colonies.

Just past Montour—the first town of the ride—you’ll enter the Meskwaki Settlement, communal land owned by the Meskwaki Nation. Between Tama and Belle Plaine, you’ll ride a section of rolling hills known to the locals as the Bohemian Alps—named for the Czech settlers who made the area home.

Once you reach Marengo, you can start a loop through the seven villages of the historic Amana Colonies. You’ll find the pace on this loop a little slower with only a few miles between each village. But there are plenty of places to explore and historical sites to see.

The road isn’t highly technical, so it’s a fun option for riders of all experience levels. Finish the Amana Colonies loop and head back up toward Le Grande to complete the route or make your way over to Toledo to keep exploring everything Iowa has to offer.

You can view the Iowa River Valley route and customize your trip with our interactive route map.

Like many other Midwest states, Iowa’s weather can change quickly in any season, so it’s important to check the forecast before you ride. If you’re planning to ride all day, dress in layers to accommodate cooler temperatures in the morning and evening, especially in the spring and fall.

The optimal riding season in Iowa is April to October to avoid this region’s winter ice and snow. Check out the average monthly temperatures in Belle Plaine during the riding season as you plan your trip.

Even on less technical routes like the Iowa Valley Scenic Byway, you can prioritize safety for you and your crew. Start with the right safety gear including a DOT approved helmet. And on the ride, keep these safety tips in mind:

• Pull over safely if you want to take in the spectacular views or snap a photo. Never stop in the roadway.

• Share the road with motorcycles, bicycles, farm equipment, and the occasional horse and buggy. Be respectful of all travelers.

• Watch for gravel on the road—especially at intersections and curves. While the byway is paved, many side roads are gravel.

• Stay off your phone. It’s illegal to text and drive in Iowa, so keep it stowed and stay focused on the road.

• See Iowa’s official byway travel guide for more safety suggestions.

The Iowa River Valley has an interesting cultural history. The land was an attractive destination for European immigrants—forming small communities based on language and common values. As a result, you can experience the German, Czech, English, and Belgian cultures in this region.

If there’s time in your schedule, spend a couple of days exploring small towns and local landmarks along the byway. Here are a few to check out:

Designated as a National Historic Landmark, the Amana Colonies preserve the history and culture of German settlers who came to Iowa in the 1850s seeking religious freedom. It’s made up of seven small villages—Amana (Main Amana), South Amana, Homestead, East Amana, Middle Amana, High Amana, and West Amana—that make up one of the longest-lasting communal societies in the U.S.

Ride into the region's history via its craft shops, museums, annual festivals, and restaurants like these:

• Amana Meat Shop & Smokehouse offers traditional German meats and smoked products.

• Amana Colonies Bakery and Cafe sells fresh baked goods and coffee.

• The Chocolate Haus is the place for handcrafted chocolate treats.

• There are many shops to explore, including quilt, craft and art, apothecary, and antique stores.

• Amana Heritage Museum is just one of several cultural places to explore the area's rich culture and history.

On the western end of the byway, you’ll pass the Meskwaki Settlement—tribal land governed by the Sac & Fox Tribe of the Mississippi in Iowa, the state’s only federally recognized Native Nation. While most of the tribe-owned 8,000-acres are private, there are several public places where you can respectfully connect with Meskwaki culture and history:

• Join them for the annual powwow in August, a public celebration of dance, music, and tradition.

• Enjoy gaming, dining, and entertainment at the Meskwaki Bingo Casino Hotel.

• Visit the Meskwaki Cultural Center and Museum to view thousands of Native artifacts and explore the tribe’s legacy.

From marshland lookouts to seasonal blooms, the Iowa River Valley offers plenty of natural beauty along the byway.

• Detour from the byway at Chelsea, heading north on Hwy E66 for prime bird and wildlife watching at the eagle-shaped Otter Creek Marsh observation deck.

• In July, visit Lily Lake to witness thousands of American lotus flowers in bloom.

The Iowa Valley is rich with culinary traditions—many of them influenced by the area's German and Native heritage. Local markets and eateries often feature seasonal produce grown in the surrounding countryside.

• Ox Yoke Inn is where you go for schnitzel.

• Millstream Brau Haus serves German-style pretzels, bratwurst, and more.

• Heng's Bakery is a go-to for deli items, smoothies, ice cream, and more.

Iowa enforces minimum motorcycle insurance requirements—but the right coverage goes beyond the basics. Dairyland^®, a brand of the Sentry Insurance Group, offers affordable options designed to help riders stay protected and on the road. Start a quote today and see what coverage fits your ride.