Welcome to the Mines of Spain

Where Catfish Creek spills into the Mississippi River just south of Dubuque, discover 1380 acres of lush wood and prairie land at the Mines of Spain Recreation Area and E.B. Lyons Interpretive Center. A designated National Historic Landmark, the Mines of Spain is home to a monument erected in honor of Dubuque’s namesake – Julien Dubuque.

You’ll find dozens of breathtaking hiking trails that meander along Catfish Creek or climb to the top of Horseshoe Canyon. Picnicking, hiking, bird watching, cross-country skiing and canoeing are among the countless activities to experience at the Mines of Spain. With Native American history dating back 8,000 years on the site to remnants of lead mining and structures from a historic family farm, there is something to discover around every bend. Floating trails inside of wetlands make way for rugged woodland and limestone bluffs.

Designated by the state as one of Iowa’s “Watchable Wildlife Areas,” visitors can catch glimpses of rare wildlife ranging from the bobcat to the red shouldered hawk or stand in awe of one of the park’s 250-year-old burr oak trees.  “The Mines,” as local residents have dubbed the park, is a favorite natural abode that induces awe and relaxation year round.
 

www.MinesOfSpain.org