These 4 Trails In Missouri Will Lead You To Extraordinary Ruins

Hiking promises so many adventures, whether we expect them or not. We never know who we’re going to meet or what we’re going to experience along the many hiking trails in Missouri. For a peek at the past, lace up your hiking boots for a journey along one or all of these trails in Missouri, each of which leads to ruins.

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Explore the ruins of Ha Ha Tonka Castle when you set off on the Castle Trail in Ha Ha Tonka State Park. At under a mile, the Castle Trail is rated easy and is handicap accessible. Begin your hike at one of the castle's parking lots.

With construction completed in 1920, the majestic castle served as a residence of the Snyder family for several years before being converted into a hotel. However, tragedy struck when a fire ripped through the castle. Today, visitors visit the remnants of the castle and the park named after it.

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Expect plenty of company when you set off on the Fort Belle Fontaine Loop Trail near St. Louis. With a rating of moderate, the trail spans nearly three miles. The terrain along the trail can get muddy, especially after a rainfall. Fort Belle Fontaine Park, established in 1986, pays homage to the United States' first military installation west of the Mississippi, which opened in 1805. You'll see the remnants of stone buildings constructed by St. Louis' Works Progress Administration. Some also say that the spirit of a former soldier haunts the the trail.

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Tucked in Elephant Rocks State Park, the Engine House Ruins Trail stretches just a mile and a half. The paved trail, rated easy, is also handicap-accessible. Stroll along the paved path that will lead you to an abandoned 1902 train engine house. During the early part of the 20th century, the engine house was built in what is now Elephant Rocks State Park. It served as a place to repair trains that hauled granite.

All Trails/Isaias Enriquez

All Trails/Isaias Enriquez

At just one-mile, the Welch Spring Trail is rated easy. Despite its rating, it's usually quite quiet on the trail. Meander along the trail that will lead you to the ruins of a hospital from the early 1900s. Dr. C.H. Diehl oversaw the construction of the hospital, built at the opening of a cave. The cave, he believed, had air that was free of pollen, making it ideal for those with respiratory problems such as asthma. What would now be considered a "health spa," the hospital closed upon the doctor's death. Do not wade in or try to swim in the spring, as it is prohibited.

Do you have favorite trails in Missouri that lead to abandoned ruins? Tell us about them in the comments! Love waterfalls? If you love waterfalls and hiking, get your fill of both along the Ultimate Road Trip To The Best Waterfalls in Missouri.