Des Moines County Conservation is dedicated to the sustainability of natural resources through land stewardship, conservation education and by providing quality outdoor recreation opportunities.
Cross Country Skiing
Looking for a place to ski, check out these areas:
Cross country skis can be rented at Starr's Cave Nature Center. We have skis, boots, and poles to outfit skiers as young as toddlers up through adults. We offer a mini cross country skiing lesson to those who would like help getting started. Skis are rented out only when there is 4" or more of quality snow on the ground. Please be sure to call the nature center before your visit as the nature center may be closed during scheduled rental hours when staff is out teaching environmental education programs. To find out more about ski rental, contact Starr's Cave Nature Center at 319-753-5808.
Weekday Rental Hours
Monday - Friday
8:30 am - 4 pm
Last ski rental of the day is at 3 pm.
Saturday Rental Hours
The nature center is open only on Saturdays in the winter if there is 4" or more of quality snow on the ground.
Saturday 10 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Last ski rental of the day is at 2 pm.
Rental Rates
$8/day
$15/weekend
$50/ full season*
*For full season rentals, skis are kept with the renter up until March 9th. Only a limited number of skis are available to rent for a full season.
Directions to Starr's Cave Park & Preserve: From Burlington take Hwy 61 N, at Sunnyside Ave turn east, turn north onto Irish Ridge Rd, after approximately a 1/4 mile, turn west onto Starr's Cave Park Rd, follow road and arrive at Starr's Cave Nature Center parking lot.