Clayton County, Iowa has many scenic roadways including the River Bluffs Scenic Byway which takes a traveler through what is locally known as “Little Switzerland." Along the way it threads through or near the communities of Guttenberg, Garber, Elkport, Elkader, Volga City, Saint Olaf, Giard, McGregor and Marquette. To help guide our visitors along the River Bluffs Scenic Byway and points of interest along the way, a printable map is available here. You won't want to miss amazing public art pieces developed in byway communities; visit the Iowa Byways site for more information.
New in 2021!
Iowa's Scenic Byway Passport is your ticket to discovering the beauty of Iowa’s miles of scenic byways. You’ll experience small town America, diverse landscapes, historic sites and unique restaurants, shops and attractions.
Each month in 2021, one byway traveler will win a Byway Prize Package which will include gift certificates for hotels, restaurants, attractions and more! Each check-in to a location on the passport earns you one entry into the monthly sweepstakes drawing. It’s free to sign up and the more locations along the byways you visit, the more deals, discounts and prizes you’ll unlock!
Other scenic routes are found near Pikes Peak State Park in the northeast corner of Clayton County and Backbone State Park located in the southwest corner.
Iowa’s Great River Road traverses through Clayton County, Iowa along the Mississippi River offering motorists a scenic view year round.
Points of Interest along the way include Osborne Welcome Center, located south of Elkader; Guttenberg Welcome Center; Iowa DNR Guttenberg Fish Hatchery and Aquarium.
