Loess Hills Scenic Byway
Preparation Canyon State Park, IA

A group of Mormons rested here in 1853, originally preparing for the journey to Utah. Instead, they left their church and settled here to follow a charismatic man who they later discovered was a swindler. Charles B. Thompson named the area Preparation for the "Preparation for the life to come" and became the overseer of the group's property. But when they decided they wanted it back, he would not comply so many of the people decided to move on to Utah. Now Preparation Canyon is a state park offering hiking trails, campsites, and a scenic experience in the Loess Hills.