You’ll Fall In Love With The Waterfalls Hiding Along This Breathtaking Missouri Trail
By Beth Price-Williams|Published May 14, 2024
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Beth Price-Williams
Author
A professional writer for more than two decades, Beth has lived in nearly a dozen states – from Missouri and Virginia to Connecticut and Vermont – and Toronto, Canada. In addition to traveling extensively in the U.S. and the U.K., she has a BA in Journalism from Point Park University (PA), a MA in Holocaust & Genocide Studies from Stockton University (NJ), and a Master of Professional Writing from Chatham University (PA). A writer and editor for Only In Your State since 2016, Beth grew up in and currently lives outside of Pittsburgh and when she’s not writing or hanging out with her bunnies, budgies, and chinchilla, she and her daughter are out chasing waterfalls.
One of the best things about hiking is there’s something for all of us – whether we are novices or seasoned hikers – and we can always find the right trail. Short and sweet trails are usually my favorite because they don’t take too long, give me the time in nature that I crave, and help me recharge. If I’m lucky the trail I’ve taken has a waterfall or two along the way. If you’re all about chasing waterfalls, you’ll fall in love with this waterfall trail in Fredericktown, Missouri.
We've all likely heard of - and perhaps even visited - the Castor River Shut-Ins, a natural wonder that's tucked in Amidon Memorial Conservation Area in Fredericktown.
The pink granite shut-ins, the only ones in Missouri, date back 1.5 billion years.
The short and sweet Old Hahns Mill Trail tallies just over half a mile and leads right to the shut-ins and tiny waterfalls that create some of the most stunning natural scenery in Missouri.
While there are several trails to the shut-ins, Old Hahns Mill is kid and dog-friendly, well-maintained, and can be completed in less than half an hour.
If you're short on time, this trail in Missouri packs a lot of scenic punch - shut-ins, waterfalls, wildflowers, and lush greenery during the warmer months - in just .08 of a mile.
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Wear sturdy shoes. While the trail earns an easy rating, you will have to deal with large rocks, especially once you arrive at the shut-ins.
The shut-ins are a popular swimming spot during the hotter months, so make sure you bring your swimming gear if you want to cool down.
Old Hahns Mill Trail tends to be quiet and it promises scenic beauty in all four seasons. If you can, follow it after a fresh snowfall. There's nothing quite as enchanting as frozen waterfalls sprinkled with snow.
Have you followed Old Hahns Mill Trail, a waterfall trail in Fredericktown, Missouri? What did you think of the tiny waterfalls and the pink granite shut-ins? Let us know in the comments! You’ll likely build up an appetite during your hike, so head over to The Depot Cafe, a charming restaurant in Fredericktown, Missouri for a bite to eat.
Or, if you prefer to explore some more, why not set off on another of Missouri’s best hiking trails? You can find a comprehensive list, including photos and maps, on AllTrails.