Enjoy the Great Outdoors in Central Missouri

Mid Missouri is known for several things. It is where Jefferson City, the state’s capital, is located. It is home to several colleges, the largest of which is the University of Missouri-Columbia, also known as Mizzou.Mid-Missouri is where Sam Walton, founder of Walmart and Sam’s Club, spent much of his childhood and early adult years. It is also where you can find the Devil’s Icebox, one of the longest caves in Missouri that is home to several species of bats, including one that is endangered. Mid Missouri definitely has a lot to offer visitors.

If you’re looking for a small town getaway that is big on nature, Mid Missouri is a spot you don’t want to miss. Outdoor enthusiasts and novice hikers alike can enjoy the plethora of outdoor experiences available in the middle of the Show Me State. Travel to Mid Missouri for the college vibe and small town charm, stay for the outdoor adventures and pretty scenery.

Five great hiking spots in central Missouri

1. Eagle Bluffs Overlook Trail- The Eagle Bluffs Conservation Area features a 200-foot bluffs area that provides a sweeping, stunning view of the river valley below. From the parking area, guests can choose to hop on the Katy Trail, which runs directly below the bluffs, for an additional hike. The hike to the bluffs themselves is easy but getting to the actual overlook is strenuous and requires a lot of stairs. The climb to the top is worth it, though, to soak up the magnificent landscape below. 
2. Mark Twain National Forest, Cedar Creek Trail System- The Mark Twain National Forest, Missouri’s only national forest, encompasses 1.5 million acres of gorgeous greenery in the Columbia and Jefferson City areas and south toward Arkansas. There are multiple popular places to hike in this forest, including the Cedar Creek Trail system that includes the Moon Loop Trail, a popular 6.2-mile stretch ideal for anyone looking to connect with nature. 
3. The Pinnacles Youth Park- The trail at the Pinnacles may only be one-mile long, but it can provide hours of entertainment for visitors. This youth park has been privately owned since it opened to the public in the 1960s and receives no government funding. It is a popular space for scout groups and anyone who wants to spend some time outdoors. Kids, especially, love to climb on the rock formations from which the park gets its name.
4. Rock Bridge Memorial State Park- Head to the Gans Creek Wild Area if you want solitude and a longer hike- 6.2 miles to be exact. Or, if you’re more the adventurous type, you may enjoy exploring the Devil’s Icebox, mentioned above, a cave with several species of bats. This entire state park has more than 27 miles of hiking trails so everyone can explore and enjoy the outdoors. 
5. MKT Nature and Fitness Trail- Voted one of the best urban trails in the US in 2016 by USA Today, MKT Nature and Fitness Trail is a “rails to trails” story. Built on the old MKT rail line, the MKT Nature and Fitness Trail offers hikers, bikers and joggers almost 9 miles of 10-foot paved sidewalks through the Columbia area that eventually connect with the Katy Trail. Pick up the trail at Flat Branch Park in Columbia. 

Happy trails! 

Missouri State Parks & Department of Natural Resources

If you’re an outdoor enthusiast in Missouri or traveling to Missouri, you’ll want to be familiar with Missouri State Parks & the Department of Natural Resources. The people at this government organization have deep knowledge and understanding of the topical geography of Missouri and can help you determine the trails and natural experiences right for you and your travel party. If you’re looking for a getaway where you can explore all the scenic beauty Missouri has to offer, Missouri State Parks & Department of Natural Resources is a great place to start.