A new year means new beginnings, the chance to start over, or to keep moving ahead on the path we’re already on. It’s also a time for reflection on what we’ve accomplished in the previous year and what we hope to experience in the year ahead. These seven winter hikes for backpacking in Missouri promise an idyllic backdrop for breathing in the fresh air, getting in tune with nature, and for reflecting on the year ahead. Just be sure to bundle up and gather your winter travel essentials before you hit the trails!

1. Bell Mountain Loop Trail – Belleview

Bundle up – and bring plenty of water and snacks – for your trek along the 11.6-mile Bell Mountain Loop Trail. If you’re up for a quiet hike where you’ll have plenty of time to reflect, you’ll probably like this trail that’s not really that busy with hikers. Hike along the trail that’s dotted with trees, particularly pretty in snow caps, and pass Shut-In Creek and Joe’s Creek.

2. Greer Spring Trail – Alton

Up for a bit of a challenge? One of the most beautiful hikes in Missouri, the Greer Spring Trail in Alton, which is rated moderate, promises some challenging terrain, but you’ll definitely enjoy the rewards. Like Bell Mountain Loop Trail, Greer Spring Trail is relatively quiet. You’ll also pass by a waterfall as you trek through old growth forest.

3. Natural Tunnel Trail – Lebanon

Head to Bennett Spring State Park for a breathtakingly beautiful hike along the Natural Tunnel Trail. The trail spans 7.5 miles and can get quite crowded with hikers. (You might luck out and find it quieter during the winter months, however. It's some of the best hiking in February.) The highlight of the trail is, arguably, the 300-foot natural tunnel known as Spring Hollow.

4. Lone Wolf Trail – Ballwin

Tucked in Castlewood State Park, Lone Wolf Trail spans just 1.7-miles, making it an idyllic hike if you’re looking for something short and sweet. However, the trail is rated moderate as you’ll have to do some hiking uphill. That climb, however, promises spectacular views – particularly after a fresh snowfall – of Kiefer Creek.

5. Mina Sauk Falls Trail – Middle Brook

Mina Sauk Falls Trail, in Taum Mountain State Park, comes in at just under three miles. However, be prepared for a challenging hike, especially during the winter when there’s snow and ice. Wear sturdy boots and bundle up for the hike that promises sensational views of a potentially frozen Mina Sauk Falls.

6. Shaw Nature Reserve Trails – Gray Summit

Slip on your winter boots for a leisurely hike along one of the trails at the lush and lovely Shaw Nature Reserve. The series of trails, which total nearly seven miles, offer an abundance of natural beauty, including prairies, hills, and woodlands. The trail can get pretty busy at times.

7. Whispering Pines Trail – Ste. Genevieve

Our final hike takes us to Hawn State Park. Whispering Pines Trail, the hardest of the hikes we’ve highlighted, is a loop trail that stretches 12.4 miles. The picturesque trail boasts an abundance of natural beauty, including mountain views, a river, and rock formations. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, too.

What are your favorite winter hikes for backpacking in Missouri? Let us know in the comments! If you like staying active during the winter, how about heading to one of these five indoor ice skating rinks in Missouri?