The Loess Hills Scenic Byway in western Iowa and the Great River Road in eastern Iowa received the esteemed designation. The corridors are among 30 receiving recognition today. They are the first of Iowa's scenic byways to achieve national status.
National byways let travelers venture off the beaten path and get a taste of the local flavor.
As travelers wind their way through the Missouri River Valley on the Loess Hills Scenic Byway, they will experience the beauty of Iowa's Loess Hills. The unique bluffs, formed from deposits of windblown soils, are found in only one other location in the world, the Yellow River Valley of China. On Iowa's eastern edge, the Great River Road follows the path of the Mississippi River. These byways exemplify the rich history, spectacular landscapes and recreational experiences that Iowa has to offer. The National Scenic Byways Program was started in 1996 to recognize and preserve America's exceptional transportation corridors.