First Day Hikes
1/1/2026 | Mastodon State Historic Site | Imperial, MO.
Kick off the new year with fresh air, scenic views, and a journey into Missouri's ancient past at Mastodon State Historic Site. We are offering two guided hike options so everyone can start 2026 their own way: a 2-mile hike on Limestone Hill Trail and 0.8-mile hike on Spring Branch Trail.
Whether you're looking for an invigorating challenge or a relaxing stroll, this is the perfect way to start your year -- surrounded by nature, history, and community! All participants are encouraged to dress for the weather, wear sturdy shoes, and bring water and snacks. Dogs are allowed, but they must be kept on a leash. The museum will be closed on the day of the hikes.
First Day Hikes are promoted by America's State Parks and are held at parks across the country at the start of each year. For more information about Mastodon's hikes, please call the site office at 636-464-2976.
Hike Options:
Both hikes are free and open to the public and start at 10 a.m. Registration is required.
Hike 1: Limestone Hill Trail
- Distance: 2 miles
- Time: 10 a.m. to noon
- Trail features: natural surfaces with rocky outcrops, loose gravel, and a few inclines adding up to about 300 feet of elevation
- Meeting location: museum parking lot
- Address: 1050 Charles J. Becker Drive, Imperial, Mo.
- GPS coordinates: 38.379051, -90.384673
- Please note that the museum will be closed on the day of the hikes.
- Register for the Limestone Hill Trail hike.
- 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.
Hike 2: Spring Branch Trail
- Distance: 0.8 mile
- Time: 10 a.m. to noon
- Trail features: flat, paved path that winds along the scenic Rock Creek; perfect for families with young children or anyone seeking a gentler route
- Meeting location: Spring Branch Trail trailhead in the picnic area
- Address: 1800 Seckman Road, Imperial, Mo.
- GPS coordinates: 38.38034, -90.39489
- Register for the Spring Branch Trail hike.
- 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.
Mastodon State Historic Site contact information:
- Address: 1050 Charles J. Becker Drive, Imperial, Mo.
- Phone number: 636-464-2976