Compared to the likes of Colorado, Missouri's hiking scene isn't too difficult. But that's what makes our trails even more inviting. If you're looking for some of the best hikes in Missouri, you've just found them. While they may be short on distance, they're certainly not short on beauty.

1. Trail Through Time Trail - 1.9 miles

While hiking on this trail, you'll actually be hiking the grounds of a national natural landmark. Pickle Springs Conservation Area is a geological wonderland that features over 250 vascular plant species. Read more about the Trail Through Time.

Address:

Hwy 32

Sainte Genevieve, MO 63670

2. Spring Branch Trail - 2 miles

This packed gravel trail follows a small stream flowing from the Bollefer Spring past remains of the Bollefer springhouse. It clocks in at just .80 of a mile but packs a whole lot of scenic beauty in that short time. View a trail map of Spring Branch Trail.

Address:

1050 Charles J Becker Dr.

Imperial, MO 63052

3. Long Trail - 1.6 miles

While visiting the Springfield Nature Center, take a hike on the Long Trail. You'll cross quite a few bridges to get through Galloway Creek and Lake Springfield. Learn more on the official website of Springfield Conservation Nature Center.

Address:

4601 S. Nature Center Way

Springfield, MO 65804

4. Devil's Icebox Trail - 3.75 miles

Rock Bridge Memorial State Park would have to be my favorite state park near the Katy Trail. While hiking Devil's Icebox, you'll get to see the 63-foot high natural tunnel known as the rock bridge and the double sinkhole entrance to Devil’s Icebox and Connor’s Cave. This trail is predominately wood planked, so you don't have to worry about tripping over tree roots as much. Find more information on Devil's Ice Box.

Address:

5901 South Highway 163

Columbia, MO 65203

5. Cave Spring Trail - 1 mile

William Klein Park serves as a little oasis for city dwellers in Kansas City. This is the largest and longest standing privately run park in Jackson County. Explore various old stone structures while hiking around this park. Stop by the official website of William Klein Park (Cave Spring Park) for more information.

Address:

8701 E Gregory Blvd. Raytown, MO 64133

6. Old Kate Trail - .9 miles

Some days, I wish every waterfall trail only required less than a mile of hiking. Luckily, Old Kate is that kind of trail. Short and sweet, but gorgeous nonetheless. Get all of the details on the Old Kate Trail.

Address:

100-198 E. 12 St. Parkville, MO 64152

7. Drover's Trail - 3 miles

Take in the fresh air and aroma of preserved tallgrass prairies at Prairie State Park while hiking Drover's Trail. You'll also run into some new friends along the way. I'm talking herds of wild buffalo. View a trail map and more photos of Drover's Trail.

Address:

128 NW 150th Ln.

Mindenmines, MO 64769

8. Hickory Ridge Trail - 1.2 miles

This easy trail at Powder Nature Center is perfect for the whole family. It's paved, so feel free to bring the stroller or anyone who utilizes a wheelchair. Carve out time to explore the rest of the nature center, too. Here's the official website of Powder Nature Center.

Address:

11715 Cragwold Rd.

St. Louis, MO 63122

9. Spring Trail - 1.5 miles

Along this trail you'll get to take in the beautiful crystal clear waters of the spring at Ha Ha Tonka State Park. After you've visited the spring, make sure you stop by the remnants of the regal Ha Ha Tonka Castle, after which the park is named. Get all of the details on the Spring Trail.

Address:

1491 State Road D

Camdenton, MO 65020

10. Maple Hollow Trail - .5 miles

This half-mile paved trail features some of the most beautiful wildflowers you'll ever see in Cape Girardeau. It only takes around 15 minutes to complete, too, making it one of the shortest and sweetest trails in Missouri. Find a trail map of Maple Hollow Trail.

Address:

2400 County Park Dr.

Cape Girardeau, MO 63701

11. Bethany Falls Trail - 1.3 miles

Bethany Falls Trail is located at the Burr Oaks Nature Center. This 1,071-acre property located in Blue Springs, is known for its beautiful forested hillsides and limestone boulders and outcrops. View a trail map and more photos of Bethany Falls Trail.

Address:

1401 NW Park Rd.

Blue Springs, MO 64015

What do you think are the best hikes in Missouri? Let us know in the comments! Then, if you're a fan of fairy tales, set off on this beautiful Missouri hikes that lead to fairy tale footbridges.