Tips
Targi
November 7, 2024
Hiking
Park in the gravel area just south of the entrance to Dunning’s Spring Park. Walk to the waterfall and be sure to take time to walk across the stone bridge …
Renner Anderson
June 27, 2025
Hiking
The water that feeds Dunning Spring comes from near the base of the Galena Aquifer. Beneath this aquifer is the much less permeable Decorah Shale, which acts as a "confining bed" or "floor" for the aquifer. When the Decorah Shale is exposed near the surface of the land, particularly on the sides of river valleys, it causes groundwater to discharge. This process creates beautiful waterfalls and springs, such as Dunning Spring.
Matthew
October 3, 2023
Hiking
Dunning's Spring Park is named after the waterfall that highlights the area. The trails in the park are well-marked and fairly easy for all trail users. This network of trails connects over to the Barnhart-Van Peenen Park trail system.
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Dunning's Spring Waterfall
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hikers
7.28km
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140m
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Hike the 4.5-mile Dunning's Spring, Ice Cave & Van Peenen Loop in Decorah, IA, featuring a waterfall, ice cave, and river views.
Moderate
11
hikers
6.52km
01:50
130m
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Easy hike. Easily walkable paths.
Easy
13
hikers
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130m
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Easy hike. Easily walkable paths.
Easy
Details
Informations
Elevation 310 m
Weather
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Thursday 5 November
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5°C
47 %
Additional weather tips
There’s a fairly high chance of rain. Consider packing a waterproof jacket.