Hiking

Join us and learn how to improve and manage your woods! This free workshop will feature a hiking tour of a private property that has been actively managed with the help of MDC over the past 15 years. See what good forest management looks like and what resources are available to implement it on your own property. Learn about management practices like timber stand improvement, prescribed fire, and invasive species control.

Workshop will be held rain or shine, so please wear appropriate footwear, clothing, bug spray, etc.

Workshop will be held on Friday, May 15th from 12-4pm in New Florence, MO. Contact Hayden Dorrell for directions or help registering. (Hayden.Dorrell@mdc.mo.gov or 573-416-5114)

This session will be held near the Rainbow Basin Trailhead parking lot, and it will highlight the migration of warblers and other woodland species as they pass through the area. The diverse woodland, upland, and prairie habitats will provide an excellent opportunity to spot a variety of birds in different ecosystems. Some simple to moderate hiking is available. Participants are encouraged to bring binoculars.

Registration required (adults) Stretch your legs and learn a bit about the development of Parkville, its open spaces, urban city tree use and other nature related topics. We will cover roughly 2.5 miles. This moderately paced hilly hike will utilize sidewalks and a few short road segments to explore nature in this older neighborhood. During the hike we will discuss native & invasive plants, wildlife ID, hiking safety and other great urban hikes in KC. The hike will start and end at English Landing Park. The instructor will e-mail the exact meeting location to the participants the week prior to the hike. You will receive an e-mail from the instructor if weather conditions indicate a need to cancel the program. If accommodations are needed, please e-mail the instructor after registering and at least one week prior to the program.

Note: Participants may register and attend only one of Runge's monthly Wednesday or Saturday all-day hiking programs.

Grab your hiking stick and join volunteers from Runge Nature Center for a guided hike of the Oumessourit Wetland, Earthworks, and Loess Hills trails at Van Meter State Park (Saline Co.); 3.8 miles, moderate. Meet at Runge Nature Center in Jefferson City or the trailhead. Some transportation is provided, but carpooling may be necessary. Hike leaders will contact participants via email before the hike to give directions and other information. Wear sturdy shoes, dress for the weather, bring a water bottle, and pack a lunch/snack. Note: Registration closes on May 18 at 8 am.

Join us for the gift of wildflowers courtesy of Mother Nature. Hike a 3 ½ mile natural trail that loops through meadows, woods and along streams, or turn back after the first mile. We will stop, admire and discuss the different flowers in bloom along the trail.

Meet in parking lot at Myron and Sonya Glassberg CA. A short stop will be made at the platform overlooking the Meramec River Valley, where participants can turn back if they want. Dress for weather, and wear appropriate footwear, sunscreen, hat, etc.

Bring water and snacks (optional).

Explore both the water and the woods of St. Joe State Park. Participants will enjoy a 2-mile hike on Hickory Ridge Trail followed by a 1.25-mile paddle on Monsanto Lake Water Trail. Participants can experience the area’s unique and historical significance as you hike and paddle past pine tree woodlands, dolomite glades, and the Old Lead Belt. Trail conditions include unpaved trails, rough terrain, and inclines more than 10%. No water experience needed. A brief introduction on kayak safety and paddling will be given before we get on the water.

Participants will carpool from the nature center. The nature center will provide kayaks, paddles, and personal flotation devices.

Note: Participants may register and attend only one of Runge's monthly Wednesday or Saturday all-day hiking programs.

Boasting its own natural bridge, clear stream, and beautiful wildflowers, Clifty Creek Conservation Area’s hiking trail is a must for anyone seeking an adventure in nature. (Maries Co.); 3 miles, moderate. Meet at Runge Nature Center in Jefferson City or the trailhead. Some transportation is provided, but carpooling may be necessary. Hike leaders will contact participants via email before the hike to give directions and other information. Wear sturdy shoes, dress for the weather, bring a water bottle, and pack a lunch/snack. Note: Registration closes on May 27 at 8 a.m.

Trade the neighborhood sidewalk for the paved trails of Powder Valley! Join Powder Valley volunteers for a guided hiking experience for you and your stroller aged little ones. On the hike the volunteers will engage you with the nature found along the way. What wonderful plants, animals and scenery will you encounter? Only one way to find out!

Stroller Strolls is monthly walk designed for parents and guardians with stroller aged children. Please register the child and the parent or guardian.

Join us at the Springfield Nature Center as we celebrate National Trails Day! During this self-guided hike enjoy nature while answering trivia questions along the way! Stop by the table before your adventure to pick up a question sheet. All ages. Registration required.

Explore the trails of Compton Hollow with us. Meet at the Nature Center and carpool. Bring water, a snack, and wear comfortable hiking shoes. This 3.75-mile hike is rated moderate in difficulty. Return time may vary, with an expected return as early as 12:30 pm. Ages 18 and up. Registration required.