Spend The Day Exploring These Four Waterfalls In Missouri
By Beth Price-Williams|Published December 16, 2021
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Beth Price-Williams
Author
A professional writer for more than two decades, Beth has lived in nearly a dozen states – from Missouri and Virginia to Connecticut and Vermont – and Toronto, Canada. In addition to traveling extensively in the U.S. and the U.K., she has a BA in Journalism from Point Park University (PA), a MA in Holocaust & Genocide Studies from Stockton University (NJ), and a Master of Professional Writing from Chatham University (PA). A writer and editor for Only In Your State since 2016, Beth grew up in and currently lives outside of Pittsburgh and when she’s not writing or hanging out with her bunnies, budgies, and chinchilla, she and her daughter are out chasing waterfalls.
A day spent chasing waterfalls – can it get any better? Waterfalls are, arguably, nature’s most spectacular creation. After all, a waterfall’s absolutely breathtaking whether it’s gently cascading or rushing down during the warmer months or frozen in the colder months. Next time you have a day to spare, consider chasing these waterfalls in Missouri.
Here are the Google Map directions for this brief daytrip. It’s one of those journeys you might want to take in each season, especially if you’re a fan of waterfalls.
Slip on a pair of comfy shoes for your visit to Hickory Canyons Natural Area, in Ste. Genevieve, the perfect spot for a bit of exploration and drinking in the fresh air. To see the waterfall, however, you’ll have to set off on one of two trails. Both are rated moderate, although the Eastern Trail spans just .03 of a mile. The Western Trail is a mile long. Whichever you choose, you’ll arrive at a beautiful wet-weather waterfall, so keep that in consideration when planning your visit. Here’s the official website of Hickory Canyons Natural Area.
You could easily spend an entire day at Taum Sauk Mountain State Park, home to the highest spot in Missouri. It also lays claim to the tallest waterfall, at 132 feet, Mina Sauk Falls, which sits along a scenic 2.9-mile hiking trail. The loop trail earns a moderate rating due, in part, to its rockiness. Be sure you wear appropriate and sturdy hiking boots, and watch your steps, especially if it’s icy. The trail is particularly pretty during the springtime, when the path is dotted with colorful wildflowers. Stop by the official website of Taum Sauk Mountain State Park.
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3. Johnson’s Shut-Ins – Middle Brook
Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park, 148 Taum Sauk Trail, Middle Brook, MO 63656, USA
Johnson’s Shut-Ins aren’t technically waterfalls, but they’re well worth a visit, especially if you want to cool off during the hot summer months. However, they're also gorgeous all year around. To arrive at the shut-ins, follow a 2.4-mile trail that has snagged a moderate rating due to its stairs and some rocky terrain. Visit the official website of Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park.
4. St. Francois State Park – Bonne Terre
Saint Francois State Park, 8920 US Highway 67 North, Bonne Terre, MO 63628, USA
For more breathtaking natural beauty, make your way to St. Francois State Park. Follow the three-mile Mooner’s Hollow Trail that's rated moderate due to its rocky terrain. However, it’s bursting with beauty – from the footbridge to the cascade that gently tumbles into a pool of water. The trail also features several creek crossings, a small glade, and forested area. Learn more on the official website of St. Francois State Park.
Are you a fan of chasing waterfalls in Missouri? Join the conversation in the comments! If you’ve got a bit more time, you might also want to hop in the car and visit all four covered bridges in Missouri.
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