Wandering into the Wild at Sunset Hills Bison Ranch

When you picture a relaxing weekend getaway, does your mind jump to covered wagons, cowboy pools, and a herd of bison roaming the horizon? Probably not, but it should. Situated along a gravel road in Malcom, Iowa, Sunset Hills Bison Ranch is the kind of place that reminds you how big the world is and how peaceful it can be to slow down in the middle of it all.

Sleeping in Style (Yes, in a Wagon)
Forget what you think you know about rustic camping. At Sunset Hills, they call it “glamping” for a reason. The covered wagons are more boutique retreat than Little House on the Prairie. Comfy beds, cozy bedding, and even a wagon with its own bathroom make this the perfect blend of adventure and comfort. The shower house is so nice it might ruin you for regular campgrounds.

If wagons aren’t your style, Sunset Hills also offers a cabin tucked away on the property. The cabin gives you all the quiet and wide-open views of the ranch, but with the extra space and modern amenities some travelers prefer. Whether you want the novelty of wagon life or the cozy comfort of a cabin, there’s a stay here that fits your flavor of adventure.

Add in a cowboy pool, grill, and firepit at your very own nook, and suddenly your weekend looks a whole lot like relaxation with just enough grit to keep it interesting.

What to Expect When You Arrive
One of the best parts about Sunset Hills is how simple and stress-free it is. You check yourself in – no front desk, no paperwork shuffle. Just roll up the gravel drive, stop at the retail shop for the key, head to your wagon or cabin, and settle in. Everything you need to know is waiting for you inside. From guides on the history of bison to tips on what to watch for while you explore the ranch, they have you covered.

The ranch is designed to be self-serve, even the retail shop. Want bison burgers, jerky, or other ranch-raised products? Head inside, pick out what you want, and follow the honor system checkout. It feels a little old-fashioned and a lot refreshing. Expect wide-open spaces, quiet evenings, and time to unplug. This is your chance to soak up rural Iowa. Bring your own groceries if you want to cook or use the list of nearby restaurants and attractions provided by the hosts.

Bison, Burgers, and Big Skies
Claire and Joseph, part of our Evolution of the Heartland team, discovered quickly that the real magic of Sunset Hills is in the landscape. Wide-open skies. A storm rolling in just in time for a show-stopping sunset. Crickets and birds providing the soundtrack while they soaked in the cowboy pool with a glass of wine. And yes, grilling up bison burgers while bison themselves graze in the distance.

But don’t get too close. Joseph found out firsthand what a protective bull looks like when he wandered out early with his camera. The bison won the staring contest, and Joseph wisely backed away.

Meet the Stewards of Sunset Hills
Behind the ranch are Bethany and Karl Kriegel, whose story blends farming roots, hospitality experience, and a deep sense of faith. They don’t just raise bison; they steward them, honoring the land and the animals as gifts to be cared for. Their vision is simple but profound: create a space where visitors can step away from the noise of life and reconnect with nature, with each other, and maybe with something bigger than themselves.
Their faith shows up in how they live and work. Whether it’s letting bison pasture in former crop fields to replenish the soil or creating a self-serve retail store so guests can purchase home-raised meat and products without fuss, everything reflects their belief in using their gifts to serve others.

Celebrate National Bison Day
If you’re looking for the perfect excuse to experience Sunset Hills, mark your calendar for National Bison Day. On Saturday, November 1, the ranch will host a family-friendly celebration with tours, bison education, and plenty of opportunities to taste and learn about these incredible animals. It’s the ideal way to experience agritourism up close, connect with Bethany and Karl’s story, and see for yourself why bison are such a powerful symbol of the land.

Why Sunset Hills Belongs on Your List
This isn’t your typical hotel or vacation rental. There are no distractions from TVs or Wi-Fi, just clean, thoughtful touches, and the kind of quiet you didn’t realize you needed. Sunset Hills isn’t a stop, it’s an experience. Visitors leave with more than memories. They leave refreshed, connected to the land, and maybe carrying a cooler full of bison meat. It’s rural Iowa at its best: authentic, surprising, and rooted in the people who pour their hearts into making it possible.

So, if you’re ready to wander off the beaten path, we recommend you trade the city noise for Iowa sunsets and sleep under the stars with bison nearby at Sunset Hills Bison Ranch in Malcom, Iowa.

Celebrating Osage: with Evolution of the Heartland Showcase

 

September 24, 2025, Osage, Iowa, – Last Friday, Osage welcomed visitors from across a tri-state region for the Evolution of the Heartland tour, a day dedicated to showcasing the vibrancy of small-town Iowa, its agritourism treasures, and the people who make it thrive. Guests traveled from Iowa communities as far as DeWitt, Harlan, Lake City, and beyond, as well as from Minnesota and Nebraska, underscoring the broad appeal of rural Iowa experiences.

The event kicked off at the historic Cedar Valley Seminary, where guests enjoyed fresh pastries, egg bake, and coffee while learning from Director, Nikole Gast, about the Seminary’s rich history – including a move across town and its modern-day role in serving the community. Osage Mayor Steve Cooper, Iowa’s longest-serving mayor, shared his reflections on the strength and resilience of the town, emphasizing Osage’s commitment to overcoming challenges and growing stronger together.

From there, attendees experienced the mission-driven work of Healthy Harvest of North Iowa, led by Marie Morud and Andrea Evelsizer, complete with a taste of their locally sourced “sneaky chef chili.” The growing local food movement in North Iowa was on full display, highlighting the abundance of ways to buy and support local.

The day’s tours continued with a behind-the-scenes experience at Limestone Brewers, where two of the three owners, Tony Wynorhad and Josh Olsen, shared how craft beer is bringing life and energy back to Osage’s downtown. Guests sampled small-batch brews and fresh pizza while gaining a deeper appreciation for the artistry of brewing and the brewery’s role in strengthening the local community.

Lunch was a highlight at Taste., the reservation-only farm-to-table restaurant by Chef Jes Baldus. Guests were treated to picture-perfect grazing boards and admired Jes’s inspiring journey of entrepreneurship. Her culinary vision extends into multiple ventures, including The Market, The Bakery, Piggyback Smoke Shack’s ghost kitchen, and the hidden gem Blind Pig Speakeasy. Each reflects her passion for elevating local food while keeping community at the center.

Afternoon stops brought attendees to Stillwater Greenhouse, where owners Daniel and Reba Zimmerman welcomed visitors to explore their flourishing greenhouse business and stock up on plants. At Mitchell County Conservation, Andy Taets and Chelsea Rowcliffe showcased the county’s trails, natural resources, and outdoor recreation opportunities. Side-by-side rides and education programs gave guests an exciting glimpse into how conservation and community go hand-in-hand.

The day concluded back at the Blind Pig Speakeasy, where Chef Jes provided an unforgettable evening atmosphere to close out a day full of discovery, flavor, and storytelling.

“This event was a celebration of everything Osage does best, welcoming visitors, supporting local entrepreneurs, and proving that rural Iowa is full of innovation and heart,” said Natashia Newhouse, Osage Chamber of Commerce.

Evolution of the Heartland gratefully acknowledges the support of its sponsors, Travel Iowa and the Iowa Food & Family Project, who help make events like these possible. Together, they remind us that rural Iowa is not just a place, it is an experience waiting to be discovered.

Evolution of the Heartland is a collaborative marketing initiative that brings communities, businesses, and partners together to market rural Iowa, showcasing its agritourism and unique experiences to promote tourism. For more information and to become a part of the evolution, visit: www.evolutionoftheheartland.com

Downtown Osage
Cedar Valley Seminary
Limestone Brewers
Taste
Stillwater Greenhouse
Mitchell County Conservation
The Blind Pig
Downtown Osage

 

 

 

 

The Quiet Revolution of America’s Rural Communities

Big cities may get much of the press, but there’s a revolution brewing in a place many might overlook small towns like those scattered across the beautiful rolling hills and plains of Iowa. These communities are much more than rest stops on a road trip; they’re vibrant hubs where everyone plays a crucial role. Here’s why small towns, like those in the heartland are the experiencing a revolution and why you should be ready to embrace the change.

For decades, the allure of big-city opportunities drew many away from the Midwest’s heartland. However, the tide is starting to turn. Rising costs of living, concerns about crime, and a yearning for a strong community are prompting a migration back to these once-departed towns. People who once chased careers on the coasts are now seeking a different kind of success: raising families in a safe, supportive environment with opportunities for entrepreneurs to start businesses, and a newfound appreciation for the charm and stability their hometowns offer.

Stronger Together: The Power of Community
In small towns, looking out for your neighbor isn’t a saying, it’s a way of life. From coaches mentoring young athletes to volunteers at the local school or town festivals, these acts of kindness are the lifeblood of the community. Residents come together for library book sales, raising funds for new books and programs that enrich everyone’s lives. This hands-on involvement fosters a sense of shared responsibility and a deep pride in where you call home.

Local Businesses: The Backbone of the Community
Small-town businesses are more than stores; they’re partners in progress. By supporting local organizations and events, they ensure there are activities that enrich the lives of all ages. This creates a sense of belonging and provides essential services for residents. Imagine movie nights under the stars sponsored by the local hardware store, or a new playground funded by the community bank. It’s this kind of local investment that keeps the heart of the community beating strong.

A Network of Support: A Tight-Knit Community
Small towns offer an unparalleled sense of community. Neighbors know each other, and when someone faces hardship, the whole town rallies. A casserole appears on the doorstep for a family coping with illness, or a fundraiser is organized to help a neighbor facing financial difficulties. This genuine concern for one another strengthens the social fabric and creates a safety net for those in need.

Main Street Dreams: The Midwest’s Launchpad for Entrepreneurs
The American Dream isn’t just alive in bustling cities; it’s thriving in the heartland of the Midwest. Small towns offer a unique opportunity for aspiring entrepreneurs. Lower overhead costs and a supportive community can make starting a business less daunting. Imagine opening a bakery using fresh, local ingredients or a bookstore that becomes a cultural hub. The Midwest also boasts a strong manufacturing tradition, making it fertile ground for innovative ideas in sustainable agriculture or artisanal crafts. With a deep talent pool and a customer base hungry for locally-made goods, small-town America in the Midwest provides the perfect environment to chase your entrepreneurial dreams and build a successful business.

Why We Created Evolution of the Heartland
The magic of small towns is undeniable to those who live it, but capturing that essence and conveying it to outsiders can be a challenge. That’s why we created Evolution of the Heartland. We know there’s a misconception that small towns are dying and nothing is happening. Evolution of the Heartland aims to disprove that stereotype by showcasing the innovation beyond the cornfields.

Here’s what makes small towns and Evolution of the Heartland’s initiative, so special:

  • Unforgettable Experiences: Evolution of the Heartland isn’t about generic experiences you can find anywhere. It’s about immersing yourself in the one-of-a-kind character of each community. Imagine learning about hydroponics from a passionate local entrepreneur, and then savoring a delicious meal made with fresh, local ingredients. Or picture yourself, visiting a custom welding factory and trying your hand at welding, followed, by an evening spent browsing unique crafts at a locally sourced farmer’s market. These are the kinds of authentic immersive tours offered by Evolution of the Heartland.
  • A Celebration of Innovation and Progress: Small towns in Iowa and the Midwest aren’t stuck in the past. Evolution of the Heartland highlights the dynamism and innovation happening in these communities. From improving animal genetics and embryo transfers, to high tech agricultural equipment, to thriving small businesses, there’s a spirit of progress that fuels the local economy and creates a vibrant environment.
  • Rooted in Tradition, Reaching for the Future: The rich history agriculture is a cornerstone of its small towns. Evolution of the Heartland connects you to these roots, showcasing the dedication to traditional farming methods while fostering a forward-thinking approach to the future. The focus on a high quality of life and a strong sense of community is often envied by city dwellers.

Evolution of the Heartland goes beyond showcasing attractions; it’s about capturing the essence of small-town life. It’s about the feeling of belonging, the chance to get involved, and the opportunity to experience a unique way of life. If you’re curious to discover the hidden potential of the heartland, head to evolutionoftheheartland.com/ and sign up today to be a part of the revolution taking place.

Photo by zaigervision

Benefits of Attending Evolution of the Heartland

Dive Deep into Iowa’s Bounty: Unforgettable Experiences Await at Evolution of the Heartland

Calling all inquisitive minds and forward-thinking professionals! Evolution of the Heartland isn’t just an agritourism event; it’s a passport to a deeper understanding of the cutting-edge advancements shaping the future of agriculture. Here’s why you won’t want to miss this immersive journey:

  1. Go Beyond the Fields: Unforgettable Farm Tours

Escape the ordinary and immerse yourself in the extraordinary with our intimate, hands-on agricultural experiences. These tours aren’t only about sightseeing; they’re about connecting with the heart of agriculture through the stories of local Iowa-based entrepreneurs.

Imagine:

  • Visiting a niche farm such as yak or ostrich: Learn about these fascinating animals, explore their unique products, and maybe even taste a delicious yak burger or ostrich jerky!
  • Touring Puck Enterprises in Manning, Iowa: Witness cutting-edge agricultural technology in action, from custom-built pumps to the leading-edge LightSpeed control systems all made in the USA.
  • Delving into the science behind embryo transfers in beef production: Discover how this innovative technique is improving herd genetics and sustainability.

These are just a few examples of the diverse and engaging farm experiences you’ll encounter at Evolution of the Heartland.

  1. Main Street Magic: Rural Communities Come Alive

Evolution of the Heartland isn’t just about farms. Explore the heart and soul of rural Iowa by strolling down charming Main Streets. Witness firsthand the exciting comeback story of these communities.

Experience the evolution:

  • Main Streets once again bustling with activity: Discover new locally owned shops, businesses, and restaurants.
  • A renewed sense of community pride: Meet the entrepreneurs and residents who are breathing new life into these historic towns.
  • The spirit of innovation: See how rural communities are embracing technology and entrepreneurship to thrive in the 21st century.

Evolution of the Heartland allows you to step beyond the postcard images and connect with the vibrant reality of rural Iowa.

  1. Build Lasting Connections: Network & Relax in Style

Let us take care of the logistics while you focus on fostering meaningful connections. Relax and unwind in comfort aboard a motorcoach bus, complete with plush seating, ample legroom, and scenic views as you travel between destinations. This dedicated transportation allows ample time to bond with fellow participants, farmer ambassadors, sponsors, and tour hosts.

Imagine lively conversations and shared experiences as you:

  • Exchange ideas: Discuss the future of agriculture, the importance of local food systems, and your own personal connections to the land.
  • Build bridges: Connect with passionate individuals who share your interest in sustainable practices and vibrant rural communities.
  • Create a network: Form lasting connections that extend far beyond the event, opening doors to future collaborations and friendships.
  1. A Celebration of Local Flavors: From Farm to Table and Beyond

Savor the taste of Iowa with delicious, locally sourced meals featuring the freshest produce, artisan cheeses, and delectable meats raised right here in the state. But the experience goes deeper than just a good meal. Each culinary delight is accompanied by a short presentation from a local entrepreneur or restaurant owner.

Hear their stories:

  • Their inspiration: Learn what drives their passion for local food and sustainable agriculture.
  • Their connection to the land: Discover how they work directly with farmers to create high-quality, farm-to-table experiences.
  • The importance of local sourcing: Gain a deeper understanding of the vital role rural Iowa plays in putting food on our tables and the environmental benefits of supporting local producers.

Evolution of the Heartland is more than an event; it’s an experience that connects you to the land, the people, and the bounty that makes Iowa such a special place. Join us and discover the heart of American agriculture, one unforgettable taste, tour, and conversation at a time.

Photo by zaigervision

What is Evolution of the Heartland?

What comes to mind when you think of Iowa? Endless stretches of fertile land, a resilient work ethic, neighbors who embody the essence of care, and the ingenuity of entrepreneurs who carve out success against all odds? Iowa is synonymous with agriculture, humility, and the enduring spirit of the American dream. Yet, amidst the vast cornfields lies a narrative often overlooked—the evolution of the heartland.

Rural communities are the foundation of Iowa and America, pulsating with a spirit that fuels the state’s heartbeat. But how can we harness this energy to not only sustain but thrive? Enter Evolution of the Heartland, a visionary initiative that capitalizes on agritourism and economic development to invigorate rural Iowa.

Evolution of the Heartland knows that together Iowans can…

  1. Utilize rural, Iowa people, communities, and businesses as the driving force for tourism.
  2. Showcase the high-quality innovation happening in Iowa.
  3. Entice migration from cities and other states to rural life through hands-on experiences and authentic conversations and relationships.
  4. Inspire entrepreneurs to pursue the American dream right here in Iowa.

At its core, Evolution of the Heartland celebrates the essence of Iowa—its people, communities, and businesses and encourages rural communities to market themselves jointly for these common goals:

  1. Gain statewide and national exposure for the evolving Silicon Prairie (rural Iowa communities, businesses, and people).
  2. Create a positive image of rural Iowa and agriculture.
  3. Highlight opportunities to visit, live, work, and play in rural Iowa that result in an exceptional quality of life.
  4. Provide exposure to career opportunities and business start-ups.

Past the peaceful cornfields, you’ll find folks who are all about pushing the envelope with new ideas. Evolution of the Heartland sheds light on the innovation happening right here in the heart of Iowa. Farming nowadays isn’t just about plowing fields; it’s about using the latest technology to make things more efficient, sustainable, and productive. By showcasing the seamless fusion of tradition and innovation, this initiative aims to change perceptions of rural Iowa and agriculture, positioning the state as a leader in agricultural innovation.

But at the core of Evolution of the Heartland is the power of making connections. It’s a chance for people to meet community leaders, building relationships that last long after the event’s over. Through tours, immersive experiences, and Main Street dining encounters, individuals gain insight into the intricate structure of rural life.

So, what does a typical Evolution of the Heartland event look like?  All events follow a similar itinerary yet take on the local flavor of the host community. The day starts with a round of immersive tours. The Main Street luncheon and downtown exploration aim to connect attendees with local foods, flavors, and business owners. Attendees will set out on their afternoon adventure with another round of  immersive tours. Some communities will end the day with a local vendor showcase or community reception.

As Evolution of the Heartland continues to gain momentum, the vision extends beyond the horizon. The goal is not merely to replicate but to scale this initiative statewide, as the premier agritourism event that beckons individuals to rural Iowa. By raising awareness of the opportunities for tourism, business startups, and rural living, Evolution of the Heartland attempts to cultivate a well-rounded quality of life that resonates far beyond the heartland’s borders.

In essence, Evolution of the Heartland isn’t just an event—it’s a movement. A movement that celebrates the past, embraces the present, and charts a course towards an exciting and prosperous future for rural Iowa. Join us as we embark on this transformative journey, where the heartland beats with renewed vigor, and the spirit of innovation thrives.

Photo by zaigervision

Evolution of the Heartland Wins Two Iowa Tourism Awards

Emerge Marketing Solutions was awarded the ‘Outstanding Marketing Collaboration’ award and the ‘Outstanding Social Media Execution’ award for their work with Evolution of the Heartland at the 2024 Iowa Tourism Conference hosted by Travel Iowa on March 20th.

2024 Iowa Tourism Award Winner for Outstanding Marketing Collaboration - Emerge Marketing Solutions“It was quite an honor and surprise to receive these two awards from Travel Iowa,” said Emerge Marketing Solutions Owner & visionary leader behind Evolution of the Heartland. “We want to thank all the partners who have believed in us enough to invest in our cause and make this vision a reality for rural Iowa. We truly wouldn’t have been able to get this far without

them. After attending this year’s Iowa Tourism conference, I recognize that we have arrived, rural Iowa!! There has never been a better time to showcase the evolution of the heartland.” 

Emerge received the first award on behalf of the marketing collaborations between Travel Iowa; Iowa Farm Bureau (including Audubon, Shelby, & Carroll County Farm Bureau); Community Foundation of Southwest Iowa; Iowa commodity groups: Iowa Corn, Iowa Beef Industry Council, Iowa Pork Producers Association, Iowa Turkey Federation, and the Iowa Food & Family Project (Iowa Soybean Association); local community organizations: the City of Manning, Audubon County Economic Development & Tourism, Main Street Manning, Manning Hausbarn Heritage Park, Audubon County Fairgrounds, Nathaniel Hamlin Museum; various influencers: the Farm Babe, Michelle Miller; Iowa’s Storyteller – Darcy Maulsby; Olio in Iowa – Megan Bannister; Des Moines Parent – Erin Huiatt; and Ceara Kirkpatrick; and 15 private tour locations on local farms and agricultural businesses in the Manning, Audubon, Carroll, and Templeton area.2024 Iowa Tourism Award Winners

Evolution of the Heartland 

“We wanted to create and implement an authentic agritourism experience that highlights rural Iowa in a way that no one has been able to effectively do before,” said Greving. “Our ultimate goal is to gain exposure for the evolving rural Iowa; change perceptions of rural life and agriculture; create awareness of opportunities to visit, play, work, and live in Iowa where there’s an exceptional quality of life; and ultimately inspire others to pursue the American dream right here in Iowa.”

Through multiple local and statewide strategic partnerships and sponsorships, the inaugural Evolution of the Heartland event was held on August 31, 2022, at the primary host site of the Manning Hausbarn Heritage Park. The second annual event was hosted by Manning/Audubon on August 3, 2023. With more than 90% of Iowa being comprised of rural communities, Greving emphasized the importance of this initiative going beyond one or two communities. So, the Emerge Marketing team is working to bring Evolution of the Heartland to more rural communities in Iowa and scale the experience statewide in the next five years. 

Their vision to replicate the agritourism event across the state so that even more rural communities can benefit is already becoming a reality. This year, four Iowa communities will host an Evolution of the Heartland experience: DeWitt on July 25th, Stanton on September 12th, Coon Rapids on September 26th, and Manning on October 3rd. Registration for all events opens on May 1st and is limited to 50 people for each location. Registration will close three weeks before each event or when all spots have been reserved. Early bird registration features a $25 discount per person and ends June 1st. Participants can sign up to be notified when registration opens at www.evolutionoftheheartland.com. 

Emerge Marketing Solutions

Emerge Marketing is a local marketing organization owned by Shelly Greving of Manning. Greving, along with her team, including Katie Lange (Sextro, originally from Manning), Claire Zaiger (Olsen, originally from Audubon), and Annie Greve (Carroll) work to revitalize rural Iowa and support communities, non-profits, and businesses that make up the fabric of Iowa’s small towns through a variety of marketing services including brand development, business consulting, digital marketing, fundraising, social media management, strategic planning, video production, website development, and more. 

2024 Iowa Tourism Award Winner for Outstanding Marketing Collaboration and Social Media Execution - Emerge Marketing Solutions

This marks the third year in a row that Emerge has received a Travel Iowa Award, specifically the Social Media Execution Award. In 2022 they won for their video series promoting rural Iowa communities, ‘Off the Beaten Path in Iowa’; in 2023 for their digital promotions for Wright County Fair, and now for their Evolution of the Heartland social media marketing efforts. Emerge has received additional awards on behalf of their clients in previous years, including: ‘Outstanding Niche Market Initiative’ for their Look Local First initiative with DeWitt Chamber & Development Company in 2017 and ‘Outstanding Promotional Material’ for their social media marketing for the Manning Hausbarn-Heritage Park in 2017. 

“I am so grateful to our talented Emerge team who have worked tirelessly to showcase our rural communities and take our digital marketing efforts to new levels,” expressed Greving. “So, if you are a visionary leader and passionate about your rural community, reach out to us. Agritourism is one of Iowa’s priority areas that was highlighted at the conference, and there has never been a better time for our small towns to shine. I can’t wait to see what the future has in store for our rural communities.” 

To learn more about Evolution of the Heartland or Emerge Marketing Solutions, contact Shelly Greving at (712) 292-6875 or shelly@em3rgemarketing.com.