MDC opens new loop trail and overlook platform at Glassberg Conservation Area

EUREKA, Mo. — The recently-completed three-mile loop trail on the Missouri Department of Conservation's (MDC) Myron and Sonya Glassberg Family Conservation Area is now open for public use. In addition, a platform overlooking the Meramec River is now finished and accessible. The area is located in north-central Jefferson County, about six miles south of Eureka.

The hiking trail takes visitors through the major highlights of the area as it traverses upland dolomite and limestone woodlands, dolomite and sandstone forests, and bottomland forests. A portion of the trail crosses a power line transmission right-of-way, with a sprawling view of the rolling terrain. A short spur leads hikers to a new wooden overlook deck, which offers a commanding look at the Meramec River below.

During spring, abundant and diverse wildflowers create decorative trailside displays. The woods are dominated by oaks, hickory, maple, and cedar with an understory of flowering dogwood and redbud.

The trail is well-marked and easy to follow. It is rated "moderate" in difficulty. Users will encounter natural surfaces and approximately 300-feet in elevation change between the lowest point at the parking lot, and the highest point near the overlook platform.

At the start of the trail, hikers will see the striking limestone dedication monument. The sculpture was designed by St. Louis artist and sculptor Gail Cassilly, who was assisted in the stone work by Paul Bayer.

Visitors to the area can also enjoy nature viewing and fishing in Buder Lake. There is a half-mile loop hiking trail around the three-acre lake. During appropriate seasons, small game and turkey hunting are allowed, as is archery deer hunting.

The acquisition of the 429-acre conservation area was made possible in 2012 through a donation from the Mysun Foundation and the USDA Forest Service Forest Legacy Program.

The Glassberg Conservation Area is located within the watersheds of the Meramec River and LaBarque Creek. LaBarque Creek is one of the highest-quality stream systems in the St. Louis area. At least 52 species of fish live in the creek. This diversity is almost three times greater than that of any other Meramec River tributary below LaBarque. The area will be managed to help maintain the quality of the stream.

The conservation area is closed from 10 p.m. to 4 a.m. except for authorized fishing activities. No bicycling, ATV use, horseback riding, or camping is allowed.

To reach the Myron and Sonya Glassberg Family Conservation Area, take I-44 in Eureka to Route W south. Then go west on Highway FF. The area parking lot is on the right, or north, side of the road approximately 0.4 mile past the intersection of John McKeever Road and Highway FF.

More information on the area can be obtained by calling 636-458-2236, or online through the "Conservation Areas" link at http://tinyurl.com/n8honuh. A pdf trail map is available for download.