Events

Join us for a fall hike at Ciha Fen Preserve, an 80-acre sand prairie/savanna complex and wildlife preserve on a wind-deposited sand ridge. It contains the Ciha Fen, which is one of the only two documented remaining nutrient-poor fens known in the state of Iowa. It has numerous rare plant and animals species.

The site is a wonderful place to find solitude, stroll through short-grass prairie and under ancient oak trees. Read more about Ciha Fen's history and features, and the science and significance.

What to expect
The site is an ideal wildlife refuge, but is primitive for human visitors with ​no restroom facilities, and a small parking area at the entrance.

Hiking is welcomed throughout the property, though there are no maintained trails. The terrain can be uneven and damp. We recommend wearing pants and closed-toe shoes for poison ivy protection. 

This event is open to all, and there's no need to RSVP.

Meeting point
Meet at the small parking lot and “trailhead” at the south-east corner of the preserve: https://maps.app.goo.gl/93yZc6dT4jmpDU1x5

Optional: We may have lunch afterwards at Baxa's Sutliff Store & Tavern.

Cancellation/Reschedule
If the hike gets canceled due to weather, we will announce it here.