A recent sunset in Tama County, Iowa. PHOTO BY SEAN DENGLER

Nothing is more beautiful than an Iowa harvest sunset. Looking out over the horizon past the tree-covered hills of Traer provides a perfect mosaic. The sky graced with the blue hues followed by the orange tint provided by the glowing sun is a magnificent view. Being one who lives in the “city” most of the year, this sight is what makes me jealous of not living in the country.

Since rain has become nonexistent around these parts, not a cloud dots the sky to block these pristine views. The only part dotting the sky at the lower levels is the immense amount of dust generated by the gravel roads and the harvesting combines. Other sunsets throughout the year also can be idyllic, but nothing beats harvest sunsets. The days are shorter, but the sun is still long.

A scientific reason exists for these beautiful skies. According to the Center of Science Education, when more dust is suspended in the air, it leads to more colorful skies. There has been no shortage of dust. The dust lingers into the night like fog waiting to be wetted down. Typically, a rainy day interrupts these beautiful sunsets, but this has not been the case. Providing a view only rivaled by those living on a beach. It might not be an ocean full of water, but it is endless fields dotted by farmsteads.

These sunsets are what talented artists strive for in their work, but rural Iowa is blessed with these natural occurrences. It is a picturesque view when the colors in the sky easily transition to the next one. Appreciating nature or whatever higher power they may be for the work they have done is worth it. The views are spectacular.

If there is one thing rural Iowa has in every part of the rest of the state is the natural beauty. Nowhere else is the landscape so vast, and one can see for miles upon miles. This opens the door for these gorgeous sunsets providing a feeling of connectivity with nature.

Sean Dengler.

Take time to enjoy one of these sunsets. Most people travel to a beach to enjoy them, but the country provides the same opportunity. Take a picture or two, but more importantly, take in the majestic views and be present within the moment. While each sunset looks similar, none are the same. Life is meant for experiences, and this experience, a fall harvest sunset, one does not want to miss.

Sean Dengler is a writer, comedian, farmer, and host of the Pandaring Talk podcast who grew up on a farm between Traer and Dysart. You can reach him at sean.h.dengler@gmail.com.