The best walks and hikes in Boone County
4.7
(23)
190
hikers
44
hikes
Hiking in Boone County, Missouri, offers a diverse landscape characterized by dense woodlands, river bluffs, and unique karst topography. The region features numerous conservation areas and state parks, providing varied terrain for outdoor exploration. Hikers can expect to encounter limestone formations, sinkholes, and forested paths along the trails. This area provides a natural setting for a range of hiking experiences.
Best hiking trails in Boone County
- The most popular hiking route is Gans Creek Wild Area Trail loop — Rock…
Last updated: April 26, 2026
5.0
(1)
9
hikers
2.67km
00:40
0m
0m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
hikers
4.30km
01:11
60m
80m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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1
hikers
6.71km
01:50
110m
110m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
11.7km
02:59
30m
40m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
14.7km
03:46
70m
30m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2.81km
00:43
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.06km
00:52
70m
70m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
9.45km
02:28
70m
80m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.28km
01:07
50m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
13.6km
03:41
180m
200m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Boone County
Other adventures in Boone County
Tips from the Community
Flat Branch Park is where the MKT Trail starts. It’s an easy, mostly flat crushed-limestone path through shady green space that links to the Katy Trail.
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'Fishing Lake' is part of 'Twin Lakes Recreation Area' and, as the name indicates, is mainly used for fishing. Besides that, there is a nice and short trail leading around the lake, which includes picnic areas.
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Enjoy a smooth, paved 3.3‑mile ride along Grindstone Creek Trail through mixed woods and creekside views. Quiet and family-friendly—with benches, restrooms, and even a bike repair station at the trailhead.
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On June 6, 1804, the Lewis and Clark Expedition camped on the starboard side of the Missouri River after a challenging day navigating strong currents and eroding banks. Earlier, they passed notable landmarks including Split Rock Creek and Saline Creek, the latter known for its salt springs. The day's journey was marked by the river rising a foot overnight and the crew's efforts to mend the barge's mast before setting out.
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Between Rocheport and Huntsdale, the Katy Trail skirts the base of the majestic Manitou Bluffs—towering limestone cliffs shaped by the Missouri River's erosive power. These bluffs hold deep cultural significance, adorned with ancient Native American pictographs and burial mounds atop their heights. Early explorers, including Lewis and Clark, documented these sites in the early 1800s.
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Just west of Rocheport, the Katy Trail passes a fascinating relic of railroad history: a stone-faced bunker built into the limestone bluffs. Constructed in the early 1900s, this structure served as a secure storage site for explosives used during the Missouri-Kansas-Texas Railroad's operations. Though now on private property, trail users can glimpse its sturdy facade from the path. This hidden feature offers a tangible connection to the region's industrial past, nestled within the scenic beauty of the Missouri River bluffs.
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Just west of Rocheport, the Katy Trail offers a captivating journey through the 243-foot Rocheport Tunnel, the trail's only tunnel. Constructed in 1893 by the Missouri-Kansas-Texas Railroad, this tunnel was carved through Moniteau Bluff using manual labor and dynamite, showcasing 19th-century engineering prowess. Emerging from the tunnel, travelers cross the Moniteau Creek Bridge, a through-girder bridge spanning the serene Moniteau Creek.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in Boone County?
Boone County offers a diverse selection of over 20 hiking routes. These trails cater to various skill levels, with a majority being easy and a few moderate options available for those seeking a bit more challenge.
What kind of terrain can I expect on hiking trails in Boone County?
Hikers in Boone County will encounter a landscape characterized by dense woodlands, river bluffs, and unique karst topography. Many trails feature limestone formations, sinkholes, and natural rock bridges, particularly within areas like Rock Bridge Memorial State Park.
Are there any easy hiking trails suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, Boone County has many easy trails. A great option is the Sinkhole Trail & Devil's Icebox loop — Rock Bridge Memorial State Park, which is 1.7 miles long and features distinctive geological formations. Another easy choice is the MKT Trail to Twin Lakes Recreation Area — Columbia, Missouri.
Where can I find trails with unique geological features?
For unique geological features, head to Rock Bridge Memorial State Park. The Sinkhole Trail & Devil's Icebox loop is known for its sinkholes and natural rock bridge. Another route, Devil's Icebox via Deer Run & Spring Brook Trails loop, also explores this fascinating area.
Are there any longer, moderate hikes in Boone County?
For a moderate hike, consider the Gans Creek Wild Area Trail loop — Rock Bridge Memorial State Park, which is 5.0 miles long and takes about 2 hours 8 minutes. Another good option is the Moon Loop — Mark Twain National Forest, a 5.8-mile trail typically completed in about 2 hours 30 minutes.
What do other hikers say about the trails in Boone County?
The hiking routes in Boone County are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an impressive average score of 4.75 stars from 15 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse terrain, from dense woodlands to unique karst formations, and the well-maintained paths.
Are there any notable landmarks or attractions near the hiking trails?
Yes, several interesting attractions are located near the hiking trails. You can explore the historic Rocheport Tunnel, visit the Rocheport Trailhead – Katy Trail State Park, or see the unique art installation known as Boathenge.
Can I find trails that are part of larger trail systems?
Yes, the Hindman Junction is a significant point where the Katy and MKT trails intersect, offering opportunities to connect to longer routes and explore more of the region's extensive trail network.
Are there any loop trails in Boone County?
Many trails in Boone County are designed as loops, providing a convenient hiking experience. Examples include the Gans Creek Wild Area Trail loop and the Moon Loop — Mark Twain National Forest.
What types of natural features are prominent in Boone County's hiking areas?
Boone County's hiking areas are known for their karst formations, which include limestone bluffs, sinkholes, and natural rock bridges. You'll also find dense woodlands and river bluffs, particularly along trails in state parks and conservation areas.
Are there any trails within conservation areas?
Yes, Boone County features trails within conservation areas. For instance, the Eagle Bluffs Overlook Trail is located within the Eagle Bluffs Conservation Area, offering opportunities to explore these protected natural spaces.
Most popular routes in Boone County
Most popular attractions in Boone County
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