First Day Hike

at Meramec State Park

1/1/2026 | Meramec State Park | Sullivan, MO.

Join us at Meramec State Park for annual First Day Hike. We will meet at the visitor center at noon and then drive to the Fireside Store parking lot to begin the hike. This moderately difficult hike will use Bluff View Trail, White Connector 1 and River Trail. The hike will cover approximately 2.5 miles over the course of about two and a half hours.

Features along the way will include woodlands, glades, river bottoms and bluffs, and two trail shelters built by the Civilian Conservation Corps. In addition, there may be opportunities to spot wildlife such as deer, bald eagles and maybe even a river otter. Your guide will provide commentary about these features and share stories about the park.

This event is free and open to the public. All ages are welcome, but the hike is not accessible for strollers or wheelchairs. Participants should wear sturdy hiking shoes, dress for the weather, and bring water and snacks. Hiking sticks and binoculars may also come in handy. We ask that you please do not bring pets on the hike.

Registration is required and can be completed using the link provided here. If the hike is canceled, an announcement will be emailed to registrants and posted on the park's Facebook page and the Park and Site Status Map.

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 this hike, please call or text the park naturalist at 636-210-0155.

When and Where:

  • Meet at the visitor center at noon (GPS coordinates: 38.206690, -91.103022).
  • The hike should last about two and a half hours.

Cuivre River State Park contact information:

  • Address: 115 Meramec Park Road, Sullivan, Mo.
  • Park naturalist phone number (First Day Hike information): 636-210-0155
  • Park office phone number (general park information): 573-468-6072

Related Links:

Associated Activities

Hiking and walking