First Day Hike: Hike through History
1/1/2026 | First Missouri State Capitol State Historic Site and Katy Trail State Park | St. Charles, MO.
Join First Missouri State Capitol State Historic Site staff on Jan. 1, 2026, for a First Day Hike through history. First Day Hikes are promoted by America's State Parks and are held at parks across the country at the start of each year.
This guided hike will take participants along the iconic Katy Trail, down St. Charles' historic Main Street, and through Missouri’s first Capitol building. Staff will provide a tour as we take in views of the Missouri River and downtown St. Charles from the Katy Trail and Frontier Park and discuss the history leading up to Missouri's struggle for statehood.
The hike will cover about 2 miles on the Katy Trail and Main Street. The Katy Trail has a flat, gravel surface, while Main Street is composed of bricks, making it bumpy in places. The hike will also feature a tour of the Capitol, which has a number of stairs leading to the second floor. There is no heat in the Capitol.
It may be windy and chilly during the hike. Participants are encouraged to wear appropriate shoes, dress for the weather, and bring water and snacks. This event is free and open to the public. All ages are welcome, but minors should be accompanied by an adult.
Registration is required and can be completed by using the link provided here. If the hike is canceled, an announcement will be emailed to registrants and posted on the historic site's Facebook page and the Park and Site Status Map.
When and Where:
- 10 a.m. to noon
- Meet at the St. Charles Veterans Memorial (near the Lewis and Clark Boat House and Museum)
- GPS coordinates: 38.774322, -90.482002
- Address: 1050 S. Riverside Drive, St. Charles, Mo.
First Missouri State Capitol State Historic Site Contact Information:
- Address: 200 S. Main St., St. Charles, Mo.
- Phone number: 636-940-3322
Related Links:
Associated Activities
Hiking and walking