With its sandstone cliffs, native plant communities and deep wooded river valley, Ledges is a truly unique place. The sandstone "Ledges" rise nearly 100 feet above the floor of the streambed. About 13,000 years ago, glacial meltwater began to cut down through the sandstone, forming the park's dramatic cliffs and valleys. Plowed prairies now provide the most productive farm ground in the world. Visitors can experience examples of these upland prairies, including one of Iowa's earliest restored prairies by entering the park from the east. The winding road along Pea's Creek offers motorists breathtaking views of the "canyon" and the Des Moines River Valley.

The present vegetation at Ledges is a mixture of prairies, woodlands and clearings. The blend of northern and southern forest types provides spectacular autumn leaf colors. Although the trees at Ledges are second growth, some of the oldest trees in the state are still found there. Several 200 year-old white oaks, including the "Constitution Tree" near the entrance to Oak Woods picnic area, are scattered throughout the park. Leatherwood, walking fern, showy orchids, reindeer lichen and several species of mosses and liverworts are among the unusual plants found in the park.

• Hike the 13 miles of hiking trails that lead up and down steep slopes to scenic overlooks and provide access to spectacular views of Pea's Creek "canyon".