Have you ever just stopped and thought about HOW much natural beauty surrounds us in Missouri? We never have to venture far to drink in all the beauty that Mother Nature has to offer. Take this nature preserve in Missouri as an example. It’s a hidden gem that offers the chance to take a leisurely hike, to admire the scenery, and to cross paths with local wildlife.

Reconnect with nature when you visit Engelmann Woods Natural Area in Labadie, a cozy nature preserve that spans just 148 acres.
All Trails/David Boesch
Wear a pair of comfy hiking shoes because the best and only way to explore this natural oasis is by hiking. Biking, horseback riding, and pets are all prohibited in the area.
Google/Matthew Pintar
You'll find ample parking in the lot. However, that's the only area in which vehicles are allowed at the natural area.
Follow the 1.9-mile Fiddle Creek Loop Trail, considered easy, that winds through majestic old growth forest.
All Trails/Jeff Moss
Some hikers, however, rate the trek more moderate due to some inclines.
The forest is home to a variety of trees - red oak, white oak, and sugar maple, for example - that are said to be 200 years old. Some stand as high as 100 feet.
Google/Karen Zelle
It's little wonder, then, that this Missouri natural area is a haven for photographers and outdoor lovers.
Google/Jason Cole
You'll even pass a cave.

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Wildlife and bird watching are both popular activities in all seasons.
Google/Meredith Phillips
Spring and summer mean colorful wildflowers. The natural area also boasts an abundance of berries, fruits, mushrooms, and nuts.
All Trails/Diana Holt
The Missouri Department of Conservation permits picking of berries, fruits, mushrooms, and nuts "for personal use only." Never remove vegetation or wild green edibles.
Explore this natural oasis in each season. Hunting is not permitted, and it can get quite muddy after a rain. Wait until you see the landscape at the peek of fall foliage and...
All Trails/Kimberly Schmidt
Sprinkled in snow during the winter.
All Trails/Mike Koziatek
Learn more on the Engelmann Woods Natural Area website.
All Trails/David Boesch

Have you been to this nature preserve in Missouri? Share your experience in the comments! Have you been to the smallest state park in Missouri yet? It’s a must visit!

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Engelmann Woods Natural Area, 1 St, Adda Rd, Labadie, MO 63055, USA