MADRID, Iowa—The Ledges State Park was one of several spots dealing with clean-up following heavy rains last week. Park Manager Andy Bartlett noted that between July 3rd and 4th, almost 5.5 inches of rain fell at the Ledges and the Canyon Drive was closed all weekend. With dry weather to start the week, staff should be able to get in and clean the roadway by Wednesday or Thursday, if not sooner.
The water was so powerful at the 1st crossing that it swept the stepping stones across the roadway. You can also notice that many stones were deposited on the grass when the water was at its crest.
Pea’s Creek surges through the 5th crossing. There is so much sand, mud, stone and debris left on the roadways the clean-up may take the better part of a day once the water subsides.
Runoff from the hillside streaks down the canyon sandstone walls, making for a unique contrast of dark and light colored stone.
(contributed press release and photos, Iowa DNR, Ledges State Park)