Take a hike! Our conservation areas have miles of hiking and multiuse trails. Go to your favorite area and explore.
Some trails are multiuse, which means there may also be cyclists, horseback riders, dog walkers, bird watchers, photographers, and others on the trail. Being mindful of others can make outdoor recreation a great experience for everyone.
Straying from the trail may disturb the places many plants and animals call home.
There’s no need to whisper, but yelling or listening to loud music can bother wildlife or other people using the trail.
Do not leave any trash or personal belongings out on the trails or the surrounding areas. This includes things such as chicken bones, banana peels, and apple cores. Leaving these items along the trail can be dangerous for wildlife and make nature less beautiful.
Generally, hikers yield to horseback riders only, but check the signage on each trail for special cases. When it comes to other hikers, yield to groups, uphill hikers, and hikers moving at a faster pace.
Check Places to Go to see if the conservation area you want to visit has hiking trails. You can search for trails using the Advanced Search feature.
Being prepared can make or break your hiking experience, so make sure you set yourself up to enjoy it.
Paying attention to your surroundings can help keep you and others safe and keep you from getting lost. Being aware can also prevent injuries, accidents, and negative encounters with wildlife.
If you encounter wildlife on a trail, please give the animal space. It is likely just passing by and will cause no harm if left alone. However, as black bears make a comeback in southern Missouri, as a hiker, you must be "bear aware" and know what to do if you encounter a bear while hiking.
Experience the sounds of the night during a moderate hike at the August A. Busch Memorial Conservation Area. We will hike the Busch Hiking/Biking Trail which is approximately 3 ½ miles in length. We may hear coyotes howling, and also hear 2 or 3 species of owls calling their mates.
Please dress for the weather and bring a small flashlight.
Hawn State Park in St. Genevieve County is one of Missouri’s most scenic and special state parks. This naturalist-led hike will cover approximately 8 miles of the Whispering Pines Trail. This section of the trail is hilly, crosses several creeks, and due to its length, requires a moderate to high level of fitness. Sturdy shoes, a water bottle, lunch, and a small backpack are all required. If you’re ready for a rugged adventure, this is the trail for you!
We will meet at the nature center and depart promptly at 7:30am. If you plan to meet the group at Hawn State Park, please contact the instructor to make arrangements.
