DNR
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Meramec State Park trails are designated for hiking use only, except for the Wilderness Trail, which may also be used for overnight backpacking. These trails will lead you to glades laced with gorgeous wildflowers, lush forests carpeted with ferns, red and gold hillsides ablaze with fall color, and places of quiet solitude where the beauty of nature can permeate the soul.
Bluff View Trail -- 1.5 miles
This trail is a moderately difficult loop trail with access
points near picnic shelter #3, the dining lodge area and at
the trail shelter on River Trail.
Deer Hollow Trail -- 1.8 miles
This trail is a point-to-point trail that connects the
dining lodge area to Fisher Cave. Deer are commonly seen
along this trail.
Natural Wonders Trail -- 1.3 miles
Caves, glades, mature forest and overgrown beaver meadows
are a few of the reasons why there is always something
exciting to discover along this loop trail.
River Trail -- .8 mile
This is a loop trail that begins at the southern end of the
campground near showerhouse #3. Part of this trail winds
along a slough of the Meramec River, where herons frequently
feed and kingfishers often nest.
Walking Fern Trail -- .5 mile
This trail's namesake is a large boulder located near the
midpoint that is covered with walking ferns.
Wilderness Trail -- 10 miles
This trail is comprised of a six-mile southern loop and a
four-mile northern loop. This trail is of moderate
difficulty, but due to its length should not be attempted by
beginning hikers unless accompanied by someone more
experienced.
Safety Considerations:
- Please ensure your knowledge of the Missouri outdoors is adequate to explore this park in safety. Remember, you must be prepared to meet nature on its own terms.
- When hiking into remote areas of the park, inform someone of your intended route and anticipated time of return.
- If it becomes necessary to drink water from streams or springs, it should always be purified by boiling or chemical treatment.
- Children should only hike with adult supervision.
- Ticks and chiggers are common April through October.
If you have any questions concerning the trails, call the park office at 573-468-6072. To receive a trail brochure, e-mail your mailing address.
