7 Places In Missouri That Are Off The Beaten Path But Worth The Trip
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Beth Price-Williams
Author
Sticking with the familiar is, at least for most of us, what’s easier. However, when we’re a bit more daring and travel off-the-beaten path, we tend to be well-rewarded. That’s certainly the case when it comes to these seven off-the-beaten-path destinations in Missouri. When you’re feeling adventurous, check out one of these unique Missouri destinations.
Pinnacles Youth Park, 850 E Pinnacles Rd, Sturgeon, MO 65284, USA
Take your hiking shoes along for your journey to Pinnacles Youth Park, a hidden them that’s home to majestic rock formations. To see those formations up close, follow the .08-mile trail that’s a bit of a challenge. Your shoes are important because you’ll cross streams and climb over rocks. The work is well worth it, though, to view the 300-million-year-old limestone bluffs. Read more about this unique rock formation in Missouri.
Campbell, MO 63933, USA
Boasting just 161 acres, Morris State Park packs a lot of scenic beauty into its relatively small size. It’s best explored along a single hiking trail, which spans 2.25 miles. Bring your camera, because you’ll likely want to snap photos of local wildlife, the natural scenery, and Crowley’s Ridge, a geological wonder you have to see to appreciate. Read more about Morris State Park, the smallest state park in Missouri, in our previous article.
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Start your journey at Mastodon State Historic Site at the Visitor Center, where you have the opportunity to check out exhibits and fossils, and watch an interpretive video. Then head outdoors to explore one of its scenic hiking trails. The Wildflower Trail, for example, is particularly pretty during the spring. Stroll along this wildflower trail in Missouri.
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Prairie State Park, 128 NW 150th Ln, Mindenmines, MO 64769, USA
Prairie State Park offers visitors the unique opportunity to view sweeping prairies and the bison who live there. Stop by the nature center then follow one of the trails, where you’ll pass colorful wildflowers and local wildlife. Bring a picnic along, too. Read more about this underrated state park in Missouri in our previous article.
Did you know that Missouri has its very own Grand Canyon? Yep, and it’s at Grand Gulf State Park. Marvel at this natural wonder by following a one-mile hiking trail that features a scenic overlook. You might also want to bring a picnic along, so you can sit back and relax after your hike. Take a peek at the Grand Canyon of Missouri in our previous article.
Busiek State Forest and Wildlife Area, Highlandville, MO 65669, USA
Wear your hiking shoes or bring your bike along, so you can explore all the natural beauty of Busiek State Forest and Wildlife Area. The forest is home to picturesque trails, a historic cemetery, and fields of wildflowers. Read more about this natural hidden gem in Missouri.
Engelmann Woods Natural Area, 1 St, Adda Rd, Labadie, MO 63055, USA
From shimmering streams and tree-lined paths to tortoises and a hidden cave, Engelmann Woods Natural Area offers a little bit of everything. This off-the-beaten-path destination is perfect for exploring any time of the year. Only hiking is permitted in this natural area that’s home to 200-year-old trees. Read more about this natural area in Missouri in our previous article.
What are your favorite off-the-beaten-path places in Missouri? Tell us about them in the comments! Any time’s an ideal time for a road trip. Next time wanderlust strikes, hit the highway on this road trip to the best hidden gems in Missouri.
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