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A look across the mighty Mississippi
from the bluffs at Pike's Peak State Park in Iowa.
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A close up look at some of the verdant
growth right on the river. The Mississippi at this point, often floods,
and there are numerous islands and bars which are constantly changing.
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A look down at part of the maze
of little islets. A tow boat operator has parked some of his barges along
the islets for the night.
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A view down the river form a shady spot
underneath an overhanging tree.
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The same spot showing clear evidence
of flooding. Note the partially submerged trees.
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A look down river from one of the observation
platforms along the park trail.
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We are looking straight across from what
the park calls the Crow's Nest.
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There is more to the park than a few
viewing platforms built above the river. There are trails, waterfalls,
and wildlife, as well as campgrounds, and picnic areas.
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Bridal veil falls, during a dry spell.
Generally there is enough water pouring over this rock lip to justify
the name.
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The woods are thick here. We area walking
a park trail which goes approximately across the top of one of the bluffs.
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One of the very long staircases along
the trail, which helped to remind me of my age.
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This little creek flows all the way down
to the river, making it's small contribution to the mighty flow.
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This is the midwest, and the river area,
so water flows everywhere here.
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A pleasure boat leaves a sinuous wake
as it's owner heads home for the evening.
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The sun begins to set, and the river
bluffs shade the water as dusk settles over everything.
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A close up of the parked barges. It can
also be seen that a sailboat has anchored off the islets for the night.
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Part of the semi submerged shoreline,
with a bluff in the background. Note the railroad bridge just visible towards
the upper center of the photo.
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A look over at one of the adjacent viewing
platforms.
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The towns of Prairie DuChien, and Bridgeport
call it a night. |