Explore our History

The Loess Hills National Scenic Byway began in 1989 as a grassroots effort by dedicated citizens in cooperation with Golden Hills Resource Conservation and Development, Inc. (RC&D) and the Western Iowa Tourism Region.

The Byway became an Iowa Scenic Byway on July 8, 1998 and on June 15, 2000 received the National Scenic Byway designation.

The Byway is governed by a 12-member board of representatives from the seven Byway counties, State Historical Society, Iowa Department of Natural Resources, Golden Hills RC&D, Western Iowa Tourism Region and an at-large member.

Countless thanks go to the County Board of Supervisors' continued financial support.  Thanks also go to the County Engineers and County Conservation Boards whose members provide numerous hours of professional expertise and to the landowners and individuals who continue to volunteer their time to the Loess Hills National Scenic Byway.

Golden Hills RC&D is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to the wise use and protection of natural resources for the economic and social betterment of the people of southwest Iowa.