Crescent Hill at Hitchcock (Iowa) Introduces Scenic Lift Rides, Glamping, and Nature-Based Playgrounds for Summer 2026—See What’s New!

Crescent Hill at Hitchcock, Iowa, formerly known as Mt. Crescent Ski Area, is kicking off its first full summer season under a transformative new Four-Season Master Plan in 2026. This $25 million investment aims to turn the 106-acre site into a year-round destination, combining outdoor recreation with a deep commitment to preserving the area’s unique Loess Hills ecosystem. The county’s strategic focus is on low-impact, nature-based activities that highlight the region’s natural beauty while providing a wealth of recreational opportunities.

As the site transitions from a winter ski area to a year-round outdoor retreat, the public can expect a range of summer attractions for 2026, including scenic lift rides, hiking trails, luxury glamping options, and a nature-based playground for children.

Summer 2026 Attractions & Progress

The Four-Season Master Plan is being rolled out in phases, with the 2026 summer season marking the first significant steps towards a year-round destination. Early phases of the plan emphasize low-impact recreation, ensuring minimal disruption to the natural terrain and ecosystem while offering new experiences for visitors.

Scenic Lift Rides

One of the most exciting additions for summer 2026 is the introduction of scenic lift rides. Visitors can take the chairlift to the top of Crescent Hill for breathtaking panoramic views of the Missouri River Valley. While the county prepares for a full lift replacement, the current “ride-up, hike-down” model is already proving popular, offering a chance to experience both the vistas and the rugged terrain below.

Enhanced Hiking & Wayfinding

In line with the plan’s focus on outdoor exploration, new trail connectors have been established to link Crescent Hill directly with the Hitchcock Nature Center’s expansive 14-mile trail system. These enhancements provide seamless access for hikers looking to enjoy the Loess Hills’ stunning landscapes while minimizing human impact on the environment.

Camping & Glamping

For those looking for a more immersive experience, Crescent Hill is preparing for the Intermediate Phase of development, which includes luxury glamping sites and small cabins. These accommodations are designed to offer a “back-to-nature” experience with all the comforts of modern amenities, offering visitors a cozy, eco-friendly retreat without the environmental footprint of traditional RV parks.

Nature-Based Playgrounds

Crescent Hill’s commitment to natural play is evident in its new nature-based adventure playground for children. Unlike conventional playgrounds filled with plastic equipment, this playground uses timber and stone, blending seamlessly with the natural surroundings and providing a more tactile, imaginative play experience.

Summer Programming

Additionally, summer programming at Crescent Hill will include “Wild Ones” summer camps for kids and the popular acoustic “Sunset Sessions” at the hilltop picnic area. These events aim to foster a connection to nature through art, music, and education, offering fun and interactive experiences for families.

The Four-Season Roadmap: What’s Next?

While the 2026 summer season is the first to showcase the Four-Season Master Plan, the full vision for Crescent Hill will unfold over the next several years. The project’s phased approach means that some features, such as ziplining and a new base lodge, are currently under construction or in the fundraising phase. Visitors can look forward to these additions in the near future, with the zipline expected to be operational soon.

In the aspirational phase, summer skiing on synthetic turf is also planned, offering a unique winter experience even during warmer months. However, due to the project’s strong conservation focus, features typically seen at traditional mountain resorts, such as mountain biking and mountain coasters, were intentionally excluded to prevent soil erosion and preserve the integrity of the Loess Hills ecosystem.

Don’t Miss: The “Iowa Trolls”

While visiting Crescent Hill this summer, visitors won’t want to miss the highly anticipated Iowa Trolls, created by Danish artist Thomas Dambo. This traveling exhibit, “Trolls: Save the Humans”, will be on display at Lauritzen Gardens in Omaha (just across the river) until May 18, 2026. Featuring six massive trolls made from reclaimed wood, the exhibit highlights environmental conservation and artistic ingenuity.

Starting in April 2026, the permanent installation of the “Iowa Trolls” will be featured at the Sawmill Museum in Clinton, Iowa. The exhibition will be open by early summer 2026, offering visitors another unique cultural and artistic experience in the region.

The Future of Crescent Hill and Hitchcock: Sustainable Growth

With its $25 million investment and a commitment to preserving the Loess Hills ecosystem, Crescent Hill is positioning itself as a unique and sustainable destination in the Midwest. The combination of outdoor recreation, eco-friendly accommodations, and cultural programming aligns with the growing trend of sustainable tourism, where nature and local heritage are celebrated and preserved.

As Crescent Hill enters its first full summer season under the Four-Season Master Plan, the future looks bright for both residents and visitors. The ongoing development of the area promises a vibrant year-round destination that balances environmental stewardship with economic growth, offering a wealth of activities and experiences for all to enjoy.

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