Spring has officially sprung here in Columbia, and what better way to celebrate the return of warm weather and longer days than to get outside and enjoy some nature? Columbia and central Missouri are full of great trails that range from an all-day hike to trails that are within walking distance from campus. Here are five hikes around Columbia you should check out before the end of the semester.
1. MKT Trail
Located just off campus near Mark Twain and UCenter, the MKT trail is a great place to check out if you are looking for somewhere you can walk to from campus. The MKT spans about 9 miles around Columbia and connects to the 240-mile Katy Trail that stretches across Missouri. The trail is made up of a wide, flat path of crushed limestone that is good for walking, running and cycling throughout the entire year.
2. Capen Park
Capen Park is another trail option that is located very close to campus. While this trail is not the longest, it offers a nice view at the top of a limestone bluff that overlooks Hinkson Creek. Capen Park also connects to Grindstone Nature Area if you are looking for a long walk after getting to the top of the bluffs. I recommend checking out Capen Park early in the morning to watch the sunrise from the park’s overlook.
3. The Pinnacles
Arguably one of Boone County’s most well-known hiking spots, The Pinnacles is perfect if you’re looking for the views of Capen Park but with a little more room to hike. Located about 15 miles north of Columbia, The Pinnacles is a unique limestone structure formed between two creeks that offers some pretty spectacular views along the main 1-mile trail. If you’re thinking about going to The Pinnacles, I recommend some sturdy closed-toe shoes as the incline can get fairly steep.
4. Rock Bridge Memorial State Park
Another one of Boone County’s more well-known hiking locations, Rock Bridge Memorial State Park has eight marked trails including a favorite among Mizzou students, the Devil’s Icebox Trail. Devil’s Icebox takes you down into a double sinkhole that gives hikers a view of an underground stream as well as a blast of cool weather as you descend into a cave. With the size of Rock Bridge Memorial State Park, you will be able to go back multiple times and always explore a new area.
5. Eagle Bluffs
Located in the southwest corner of Columbia, Eagle Bluffs is a 4,431-acre conservation area where visitors can hike, fish, camp and more. The land was purchased by the Missouri Department of Conservation to combat the loss of almost all of Missouri’s natural wetlands, creating 17 shallow pools providing a year-round habitat for nearby wildlife. Eagle Bluffs also boasts multiple trails and a scenic overlook that showcases the conservation area with a stunning view. I recommend Eagle Bluffs in the fall as the foliage when the leaves are changing colors adds another level to the already great hikes.
Comments