Although Missouri isn’t on the ocean, you can still find some stunning boardwalks. Rather than being ocean-adjacent, our boardwalks help you cross marshes, creeks, rivers, and lakes. You’ll find a beautiful boardwalk trail in Missouri at Pershing State Park here in the Show Me State. This awesome trail will help you keep your feet dry while you take in stunning views of marshlands, Locust Creek, and Scout Lake. You’ll even have a chance to see some lovely historic bridges! This is also one of the most beautiful ADA-accessible trails in Missouri. Keep reading to find out more about this unique boardwalk trail.

If you're looking for a short, unique, and beautiful hike, then you need to take the Boardwalk Trail at Pershing State Park.
Michelle Lincoln / Google
This easy hike is only 1.5 miles long and is good for hikers of all abilities.
Doug Neidholdt/AllTrails
The trail meanders through the marshes and wet prairie lands of Pershing State Park.
Missouri State Parks Website
You'll find an observation tower on the trail that overlooks the largest wet prairie left in northern Missouri. The prairie is more than 1,000 acres and is home to many different species of wildlife.
Catherine Bellar/Google
Birdwatchers will also love taking Boardwalk Trail. The Audubon Society has named Boardwalk Trail an Important Bird Area in Missouri.
Scott Long/Google
This peaceful trail also leads visitors to the 6.5-mile Riparian Trail. Hikers can choose to loop back to the trailhead or continue on with a longer hike. What you choose is ultimately up to how adventurous you feel, but either way there are great views worth experiencing.
Doug Neidholdt/AllTrails
In addition to the beautiful Boardwalk Trail, Pershing State Park is also home to one of the four remaining covered bridges in Missouri. Before heading home, be sure to get a glimpse of the stunning and historically important Locust Creek Covered Bridge.
Doug Neidholdt/AllTrails

The Locust Creek Boardwalk Trail in Pershing State Park is open year-round, and it’s beautiful to explore no matter the season. Dogs are allowed but must be kept on a leash. Before heading out, remember to have the right gear and to tell someone else where you’ll be and when you’ll be back. Have you taken this unique hike at Pershing State Park? Tell us about it in the comments!

Looking for more fantastic trails? I have quite a few favorites that can be found throughout the state!

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Pershing State Park, 29277 Missouri 130, Laclede, MO 64651, USA