This Underrated Missouri State Park Is Perfect for Fall Adventure

I love to be outside in nature, but if it’s too hot or cold, long hikes can be a bit of a challenge. That’s why I try to do most of my hiking in the fall, when the weather is just crispy enough that I won’t be frying from the heat or frozen from the cold. Everything also just looks better in the fall, all those bright oranges and reds as the leaves start to change. I don’t know about you, but this time of year just makes me happy to be out and about. However, it can be tough to find a spot that isn't severely overcrowded, some place where you can enjoy the peace and quiet without having to wade through the tourists. No need to fear, I’ve done the research for you. For all our Missouri travelers, here’s a fantastic, underrated state park that is sure to make your autumn spectacular.

Rock Bridge Memorial State Park is located just south of Columbia, Missouri. With 2,273 protected acres of beautiful landscape, this park is perfect for either a day trip or a weekend adventure. Noted for its geological treasures, such as its caves, sinkholes, natural rock bridge, and a mysterious underground stream, you’ll have plenty to explore. 

Perhaps its most famous feature, which you’d be crazy to skip over, is the Devil’s Icebox, one of the longest caves in the state. While you can’t go exploring deep into the caverns, it’s closed off to protect the endangered Indiana bat, you can get a great look at it. Its name comes from the frigid stream that runs through it for miles and miles.

For our hikers out there, the Spring Brook Trail loop is the best way to get an overview of the park. This short 2.3-mile loop offers access to the Devil’s Icebox Trail which takes you along a fun boardwalk, while also allowing you to see the 63-foot high natural tunnel known as Rock Bridge, which I have to say is a very impressive sight. It also connects with Sinkhole Trail, allowing you to see the park’s various sinkholes and to learn about their histories. 

For those looking for a smoother trail with equally great views, the Gans Creek White Trail is a gentle loop through the forest. This trail reaches the highest points of the park, allowing for stunning overlooks of the canyon, which you don’t want to miss. 

The park offers numerous additional activities that are great for families, such as ranger-led information sessions and an orienteering course, which teaches the basics of navigation using a map and compass. Overall, Rock Bridge Memorial State Park is the perfect place for enjoying the fall when the weather is just right and the colors are popping all around you.

If you plan to do any hiking, download the AllTrails app on your phone so that you can have easy access to maps, trail information, as well as curated lists on the best hikes in your area.

Feeling inspired? Try planning your own Show Me State trip using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.