This Easy 18-Mile Trail Network In Missouri Features A Boardwalk, Limestone Boulders, And Wildflowers
By Beth Price-Williams|Published July 29, 2020
×
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.
Exploring nature in Missouri is easy – whether we head to our local state park or the nearest conservation area. However, most of us usually face one daunting task. Where do we start when we want to spend a day among nature and maybe hit a hiking trail or two? This 18-mile trail network in Missouri boasts eight trails and an abundance of natural beauty, making it an ideal place to start.
Stretching over 1,100 acres, Burr Oak Woods Conservation Area, in Blue Springs, features a trail network of eight trails tallying over 18 miles and offering a ton of natural features, including…
Colorful wildflowers, limestone boulders, restored woodlands and prairies, and a flowing creek. You can even stroll across a picturesque wooden boardwalk.
The trails are a mix of easy and moderate with the easiest, Missouri Tree Trail, clocking in at just .07 of a mile. Family-friendly and handicap-accessible, the trail features educational markers that provide fun facts about the forest, including how to identify trees.
Missouri Tree Trail’s a great way to start your visit. Bethany Falls Trail, which measures around 1.3 miles, is also rated easy. Along the way, you’ll pass…
If you’re up for a bit of a challenge, follow one of the moderate-rated trails. The Wildlife Habitat Trail via the Hickory Grove Trail, at 3.8 miles, offers some challenges, such as a few steep climbs.
Other than that, you’ll spot such natural beauty as wildflowers, local wildlife, and a lake. If you’re not sure where to start, stop by the Nature Center, which is open Tuesday through Saturday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Have you ever hiked any of the trails on this trail network in Missouri? What did you like best about your experience? Join the conversation in the comments! Are you a fan of hikes that lead somewhere really amazing? You’ll definitely love these four trails in Missouri that lead to extraordinary ruins.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.