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Access Site IA

Kettleson Hogsback Complex

Marble Lake

Source: iowa_department_of_natural_resources Updated 1 year ago

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City: Orleans, IA
County: Dickinson County
Type: Boat Ramp
Location: 43.47669775, -95.12954794
FVGC+M5 Orleans, IA, USA
Air Temp: --
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Nearby Gauge Conditions
Little Sioux River near Spafford, MN 6.7 mi away
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Des Moines River at Jackson, MN 7.6 mi away
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Real-time data from USGS Water Services
About This Access Site
The Kettleson Hogsback Complex offers a convenient boat ramp for accessing Marble Lake in the Spirit Lake area of northeastern Iowa. Located near Orleans in Dickinson County, this site features one paved boat ramp with trailer parking available, making it suitable for kayakers, canoeists, and motorboats. The access point is easily reached by taking Highway M-49 around Big Spirit Lake's southwest shore, then turning west on 125th Street toward the Kettleson Hogsback entrance.

Beyond the water access, this Wildlife Management Area is notable for its scenic 3-mile hiking trail that follows the distinctive "Hogsback" ridge—a glacial landform shaped over 10,000 years ago. The area is also recognized as an excellent birding destination with nearly 300 species recorded, making it appealing for those combining paddling with nature exploration. The route around Marble Lake is considered easy with minimal elevation gain, typically requiring 30 minutes to 1 hour to complete.