Elkader Lodging Association

The River Runs Through It

The historic Keystone Bridge is this small historic town’s claim to fame.

Fishing the Turkey at Elkader

Fishing the Turkey River at Elkader is the place for the catch of a lifetime.

Motor Mill a National Historic Site to Visit

In 1983 the Clayton County Conservation Board (CCCB), with help from the Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation, purchased the Motor Mill Historic Site along with 100 acres of land. The purchase included 40 acres associated with the Motor Mill buildings on the north side of the Turkey River and 60 acres on the south side of the Turkey River. The buildings consist of five native limestone buildings including a Stable, an Inn, an Icehouse, Cooperage and the 90-foot Motor Mill. The purchase was made for the purpose of preserving and restoring the buildings, along with interpreting the history of the site. Starting in 1985, the CCCB sponsored Open Houses at the Motor Mill Site. This gave county residents and visitors a chance to see inside the buildings and learn more about the history of the site....

Elkader’s Shopping District

Elkader’s unique shopping district is the backbone for the town’s” tourist destination” reputation. Quaint shops and unique restaurants put our town first on the list for overnight stays in Northeast Iowa.

Coming Soon: Turkey River Whitewater Feature

The Turkey River Whitewater Feature will be a signature project for the 98+ mile TurkeyRiver Water Trail as well as the Turkey River Recreational Corridor. Elkader, Clermont and Elgin as well as the counties of Clayton and Fayette comprise the Turkey River RecreationalCorridor, which has been designated an Iowa Great Place. Since the 2008 flood, residents of Elkader have been working on plans for the developmentof the riverfront and the adjacent park area. Development of the whitewater feature is oneelement of the riverfront plan. This, along with improved access points, stepped limestoneseating areas, and a recreational trail along the river, will help reclaim the Turkey River waterfront for recreation and tourism. The whitewater feature will cater to water trail users who enjoy kayaking, boogie boarding, tubing and fishing. The feature will be at the low-head dam, or “Little Dam,” near the former fire station on South Main Street, which will be modified with placement of large and small habitat boulders and a wave catalyst structure. The habitat boulders will improve fishing in the...

The Pony Hollow Trail

In 2005 the Clayton County Conservation Board lime-chipped four miles of an old railway bed that began in Elkader, Iowa. Today Pony Hollow Trail is used as a hiking, biking, walking, snowmobiling, and horseback-riding path. Along the trail there are three interpretive signs that explain the topography, trees, and wetlands that can be seen throughout the trek. Pony Hollow Trail can be utilized throughout the year and is 4 miles in one direction with a round trip excursion at 8 miles. Day Use, Snowmobiling, Horseback Riding,...

The Carter House Museum

The past returns when you enter the Carter House and its attached annex. The home built in the 1850’s by Henry & Ernest Carter is an 18-room Greek Revival mansion furnished in 19th century style.

Elkader Cinema

The Elkader Cinema is fully digital with top-notch, state of the art projection and sound equipment. Come see and hear for yourself!

Elkader Golf and Country Club

Golf our expertly manicured course, open to the public at fair prices. Nestled in the wooded hills of beautiful Northeast Iowa, Elkader Golf & Country Club is one of the area’s best kept golfing secrets. Our historic clubhouse, expertly manicured course and outstanding customer service from an experienced staff make this a treat you will want to take in. Enjoy the view, the people, the golf, cold beer and good food as you travel the part of Iowa that time has left behind. Stop in and see for...