The Loess Hills Scenic Byway travels through western Iowa between Akron and the Missouri state line near Hamburg. It is 220 miles long and primarily follows paved state highways and county roads. Officially it's designated a National Scenic Byway, a State Scenic Byway, and a National Natural Landmark by the National Park Service.

The byway weaves through the heart of a landform of windblown silt deposits known as the Loess (pronounced "luss") Hills. This unique area possesses natural features found only in western Iowa and the Yellow River Valley of China. Byway travelers will pass through dozens of small prairie towns, historic sites, nature areas, and state parks that offer a variety of recreational opportunities.