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1,670 ft · Sioux Quartzite Uplands, Iowa

Hawkeye Point

Hawkeye Point is a 1,670 ft peak in the Sioux Quartzite Uplands, Iowa. The standard route is the Hawkeye Point Trail: 0.3 mi, 6 ft of gain, Class 1.

Hawkeye Point in the Sioux Quartzite Uplands, Iowa

Hawkeye Point at a glance

  • Elevation1,670 ft509 m
  • RouteHawkeye Point TrailClass 1
  • Distance0.3 mi6 ft gain
  • Time10 – 20 minWalk-up effort
  • SeasonYear‑round
  • RangeSioux Quartzite UplandsIowa

Climbing the Hawkeye Point Trail

From Spirit Lake, Iowa, drive north on Highway 9 into Osceola County near the Minnesota border. The high point is on private farmland with public access allowed via a short path from a small parking area. A simple monument and register book mark the spot. Straightforward visit with no hiking required beyond a short walk. Very windy and exposed on the open plains. A quick 5-10 minute stop on a state highpoints tour. The landowners have been generous in allowing access, so please be respectful of the property. No facilities available.

Gear and hazards

What to bring

  • Backpack (15–25 L)
  • Water
  • Offline Maps
  • Sunglasses
  • Sunscreen
  • Trail Shoes
  • Midlayer
  • Sun Hat
  • GPS Device
  • First-Aid Kit

Quests with Hawkeye Point

Frequently asked questions

How tall is Hawkeye Point?

Hawkeye Point is 1,670 feet (509 m) tall. It is in the Sioux Quartzite Uplands, Iowa.

Is Hawkeye Point the highest point in Iowa?

Yes. At 1,670 feet, Hawkeye Point is the highest point in Iowa.

How hard is it to hike Hawkeye Point?

The Hawkeye Point Trail is Class 1, which means hiking on a trail. Yak rates it a walk-up: 0.3 miles with 6 feet of elevation gain.

How long does it take to hike Hawkeye Point?

Most people take 10 – 20 minutes round trip on the Hawkeye Point Trail, covering 0.3 miles with 6 feet of elevation gain.

Can a beginner hike Hawkeye Point?

Most people can. It is a short walk of 0.3 miles with 6 feet of elevation gain, about 10 – 20 minutes round trip.

When is the best time to hike Hawkeye Point?

Hawkeye Point is open for hiking year-round. Conditions change with the seasons, so check the summit forecast before you go.

Climb Hawkeye Point with Yak

Plan your route on a topo map, check the summit forecast, then log your climb and see what is left on your list