For 30 years, the American Hiking Society has invited people to enjoy the outdoors on National Hiking Day on the first Saturday in June. Several of Missouri’s state parks planned special events to mark the day, but finding a place to escape into the woods doesn’t require an itinerary or agenda.
Still, the planned events offered advantages of local experts and explanations. At Washington State Park south of De Soto, the National Trails Day program included three activities on June 4.
Designated as a Senior Stroll, park staff led a half-mile hike along the base of the 1,000 Steps Trail, starting from the Thunderbird Lodge. The walk in the woods welcomed participants of all ages and abilities. The natural surface trail is well packed and passable, and staff members pointed out the features of the Big River day-use area at the park.
A tour of the petroglyph site included a naturalist leading the way through the covered walkway and interpretive panels to provide details about the Mississippian-era community and its inhabitants who made carvings in the stones.
A program on hiking at night was presented at the park campground amphitheater. Following the presentation, a short hike was held in the campground to put the night hiking safety tips into action.
Those looking for a traditional hiking experience would enjoy the two-mile excursion on the Dogwood Trail at Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park in Wildwood. The trail is moderate grade, so good hiking shoes are recommended, along with drinking water and insect repellent.
Although it is not officially a National Trails Day event, the Rockin’ at Robertsville State Park free concert offered plenty of family fun. The show was held in the park’s day-use area with some picnic tables available. The park has several excellent hiking opportunities for a pre-show walk.
Don Robinson State Park near Cedar Hill didn't have events planned for National Hiking Day, but the park has excellent trails, including an all-accessible, concrete path that leads from the parking area into the woods.
Mastodon State Historic Site in Imperial also has fantastic hiking trails. The museum is the major draw for the area, but the hiking trail in the lower park area south of Seckman Road provides an easy hike, and the trails on the north side of the county road offer more challenging treks.
The state Department of Conservation areas in Jefferson County have designated hiking trails that offer variety along with the fresh air and scenery. The most unique of these places are the Victoria Glades and Valley View Glades natural areas, east and west of Hillsboro respectively.
Because of the geology, the flora and fauna are specialized to the areas. Shallow soil over and around big rocks limits the ability for most plants to grow, so hikers are treated to naturally wide-open views. Closer inspection of the earth and its inhabitants will reveal plants and animals that have adapted to the harsh conditions.
The Hilda Young, Glassberg Family and LaBarque Creek conservation areas in northwest Jefferson County combine to protect one of the most pristine wildlife areas in the St. Louis region. Hiking trails in each location offer everything from creek-side strolls to ridge-top river vistas.
Whether you are at a state park or on private property, hiking will connect you with walkers across the country who have been recognizing the benefits of outdoor life for 30 years.
John Winkelman is marketing director for Liguori Publications near Barnhart and associate editor for Outdoor Guide Magazine. If you have story ideas to share for the Leader outdoor news page, e-mail ogmjohnw@aol.com, and you can find more outdoor news and updates at johnjwink.com.