Most of us will probably agree, even if we’re not huge fans of the bitter cold, that Missouri transforms into a frozen masterpiece when the temperatures dip below freezing. If you’re up for a chilly adventure, bundle up and follow one of the trails that leads to Hickory Canyons Waterfall, one of the most breathtaking waterfalls in Missouri. It’s a gorgeous waterfall in the summer, but wait until you see it frozen in winter in Missouri.

Embark on a positively enchanting winter adventure when you visit Hickory Canyons Natural Area, a gorgeous natural wonder in Ste. Genevieve.
All Trails/Doug Hasselhorst
Spanning just over 1,000 acres, the Missouri natural area beckons adventurers all year long. But, there's something simply magical about visiting during winter in Missouri, especially after it has snowed.
Your best bet is to head out on either the Eastern Trail or the Western Trail, both of which will take you past ancient Lamotte sandstone canyons.
Flickr/Dave Clark
Those canyons create breathtaking waterfalls after a rainfall. The wet-weather waterfalls provide an idyllic backdrop for photos, especially when the snow glistens through the icicles.
All Trails/Glenn Violet
Both the Eastern and the Western Trails are considered moderate, so wear appropriate footwear, especially if the ground is snowy and frozen.
All Trails/Glenn Violet
Hiking poles can also help you navigate tricky terrain.

Related Stories

The Gorgeous 3-Mile Hike In Missouri's St. Francois State Park That Will Lead You Past A Waterfall, Wildflowers, And A Creek

The Gorgeous 3-Mile Hike In Missouri's St. Francois State Park That Will Lead You Past A Waterfall, Wildflowers, And A Creek

 Swim Underneath A Waterfall At The Refreshing Rocky Falls In Missouri

Swim Underneath A Waterfall At The Refreshing Rocky Falls In Missouri

 If You've Asked Where To Find Waterfalls Near Me, Here's A List Of Missouri's Most Popular

If You've Asked Where To Find Waterfalls Near Me, Here's A List Of Missouri's Most Popular
The Eastern Trail clocks in at .07 of a mile while the Western Trail comes in at one-mile. Both promise beautiful views of the icy waterfall.
All Trails/Brittney Southworth
Don't forget to bring your camera or smartphone to snap photos of the frozen masterpiece.
Flickr/Dave Clark
Regardless of which trail you follow, you'll pass such natural scenery, even prettier capped in snow, as...
All Trails/Victoria Winn
White oak, northern red oak, and sugar maple trees. The natural area is also home to species of shrubs and ferns.
All Trails/Victoria Winn
Be sure to follow the pack it in, pack it out philosophy. Whatever you take with you on the hike - like water bottles - make sure you bring back to your car with you.
Find more information on the official website of Hickory Canyons Natural Area.
All Trails/Victoria Winn

Here’s a peek at Hickory Canyons Waterfall from a YouTube video by John Uhlemann.

Have you seen Hickory Canyons Waterfall during winter in Missouri? What did you think? Do you have any advice for others who plan to hike to one of the most beautiful frozen waterfalls in Missouri? Let us know in the comments! For more breathtaking beauty, check out these 16 photos of winter in Missouri.

Before you head outdoors for a day of adventure this winter in Missouri, bundle up in a warm coat, lace up a pair of sturdy hiking boots, and maybe take a pair of hiking poles.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

More to Explore

Winter In Missouri

Beth Price-Williams | December 13, 2023

What are the best winter hikes in Missouri?

One of the best ways to savor every snowy moment of winter in Missouri is on a brisk hike. Here are a few of the best winter hikes in Missouri:

  • Set off on an epic winter adventure along the 11.6-mile Bell Mountain Loop Trail in Belleview. It leads to some of the best winter views in Missouri.
  • Trek to a gorgeous waterfall along the Greer Spring Loop Trail in Alton.
  • Explore Bennett Spring Park in Lebanon on the picturesque Natural Tunnel Trail. It leads to, well, a natural tunnel.
  • Journey to Missouri’s tallest waterfall along the Mina Sauk Falls Trail. The falls sit about halfway along the three-mile trail if you don’t feel like hiking the entire path.

For more of the best hiking trails in Missouri, check out AllTrails.

What are some of the best winter towns to visit in Missouri?

Up for even more winter adventures in Missouri? Check out these absolutely enchanting winter towns in Missouri:

  • Charles
  • Fulton
  • Clarksville
  • Columbia
  • Hannibal
  • Joseph

Related Articles

Explore Missouri

Featured Addresses
Hickory Canyons Natural Area, New Offenburg, MO 63670, USA