Johnson County Highpoint Trip Report

Date: September 29, 2004
Author: Bill Schuler

From Highway 151 and 220 Trail just west of Amana, zero odometer.

0.0 - Highway 151 and 220 Trail (also CR F20) go east.
1.6 - Iowa/Johnson county line - go straight ahead (northeast).
2.0 - Amana Road NW (Still 220 Trail) - turn right (east).
3.4 - Baxter Avenue NW - turn left (north).
4.8 - NW Knapp Creek Way - park where convenient.

All five points are within 1/2 mile of this intersection. If you continue northwest on Baxter Avenue for 0.5 mile, point #1 is in the cornfield to your left near the road. The area right at the intersection is in a hayfield. Go back in (south) until you feel comfortable that you've topped out on point #2.

Back at the car, heading southeast on Knapp Creek Way, about 0.3 mile brings you to a farmhouse within the contour for area #5. Ask permission to go into the field.

Continue south into a slight depression, then up to area #3.

Then go west to intersect Baxter Road. Another 0.1 mile further south and left of the road is a very slight rise for area #4.

Return to your car 0.35 mile away to the northeast.

Getting all 5 points took over 2 hours including a number of false starts. A GPS unit is helpful to get you in the correct fields.

Be sure to leave enough time to explore the Amana Colonies with their numerous gift shops, wineries, B & B's and craft shops of all kinds. A real treat and an Iowa highlight. At least drive the trails to the seven towns.