Just 5 miles south of Monticello, this 1,138 acre wildlife management area can be found along the banks of the Maquoketa River. It is named for the steep limestone bluffs that enclose the narrow river valley. The terrain makes it ideal for the smallmouth bass fisherman, canoeist, climber, deer and turkey hunter, woodland wildflower enthusiast, and hiker. Hiking trails transverse the undeveloped hardwood forest at Pictured Rocks and the adjacent state preserve, Indian Bluffs. Several small caves along the bluff face attract spelunkers from across Iowa.
Pictured Rocks Climbing Routes Map
Due to the steep narrow road leading down into Pictured Rocks a gate is closed and locked at the beginning of the winter season. Contact the Jones County Ranger at (563)487-5038 for more specific information on gate closure dates.
Caving at Pictured Rocks is now limited to protect bat species against White Nose Bat Syndrome. Cave users will need a letter of authorization from the Jones County Conservation Board Director in order to access the caves at Pictured Rocks. Contact the Jones County Conservation Administrative Office at (563)487-3541 for a cave user authorization form. Visit www.jonescountyiowa.org/conservation for more information about Jones County Conservation.
ADDRESS12004 190th S, Monticello, IA 52310
DIFFICULTY
21 & OVERNO
KID FRIENDLYYES
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