Decorah Parks System

The Decorah Parks and Recreation Department is responsible for overseeing nearly 664 acres of land which encompasses 23 parks and recreational areas, a municipal pool and campground, 20 miles of off-road trails, and segments of the 11 mile paved Trout Run Trail. Parks and Recreation staff and volunteers host dozens of community events each year and provide safe recreational opportunities for children year round. In partnership with the community, Decorah Parks and Recreation takes great pride in enriching the lives of others through quality parks and programs that people of all ages, abilities and income levels have the chance to participate in.

Information on All Parks & Recreation Areas
Decorah Parks are open from 7 am to 11 pm

Simple Guide to Decorah Parks, Trails, and Points of Interest

Parks & Recreation Areas, Amenities, and Points of Interest

Trail Maps

Park Shelters & Whalen Cabin Reservations

Weddings in the Parks

What's That Park Project?

Carlson Park

Park Size: 110 acres

Amenities & Points of Interest: trails for mountain biking, hiking, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing

Carlson Park is our newest park and a 110-acre gift to the Decorah Parks System from the Rick and David Carlson Families. Public access to the park is located on Pleasant Avenue heading south towards the Fish Hatchery, and adjacent to St. Benedict Cemetery. The Park-Rec. Dept. is in the process of developing a master plan for this new park.

The Decorah Parks & Recreation Board hired Jeffery L. Bruce and Company to gather public input and create a potential master plan of amenities for Carlson Park that could serve as a guide for current and future planning. Click to view the completed Master Plan.

Dunning's Spring Park and Ice Cave Hill

Park Size: 115 acres

Amenities & Points of Interest: picnic table, cookout grill, bonfire grill, bench, scenic overlook, waterfall and stream, stone arch bridge, hiking trails, ice cave, historical information sign

Please note that Ice Cave Road is closed indefinitely to vehicles and thru traffic. Dunning's Spring Park and Ice Cave are accessible from the west end of Ice Cave Road. Visitors should park in the gravel lot on the south side of the road. If the parking lot is full visitors may park along Ice Cave Road. Please be respectful of private property around the park.

The Dunning's Spring Waterfall is a 200 yard walk from the gravel parking lot. Head north on paved drive across the road from the parking lot. Please note there is not parking at the waterfall. Ice Cave is a 1/2 mile walk from the gravel parking lot. Head east on Ice Cave Road. Ice Cave is open to the public with no fee for admission.