This Is the Most Claustrophobic Hike in Missouri—Would You Try It?

As a state with only a few true canyons—and not particularly narrow ones, at that—most of the Show Me State's trails offer plenty of room to move about. Some may spook folks who don't care for heights, while others are just paths across the rolling hills and through deep valleys. There simply aren't many trails in the state that would trigger claustrophobic Missouri hikers who are willing to avoid caves. One that folks who don't like tight spaces should definitely avoid, though, is a hike along the Trail Through Time.

The Trail Through Time is located within the Pickle Springs Natural Area, and follows the course of Pickle Creek and the eponymous springs. The relatively short, 1.8-mile loop is named for the incredible geological formations that it passes along and through, including arches and box canyons, as well as the unique and unusual species that live in the 256-acre natural area.

Despite its short length, much of the trail involves squeezing through some tight spots, some steep climbs, and crossing over creek bridges to gain the 311 feet of elevation the trail boasts. For this reason—along with some rough patches along the way—the hike is considered to be moderately challenging.

Many sections of the trail are overhung by cliffs, require sidling between boulders or through arches, and lead through narrow gorges with steep rock walls on both sides. Some of these tighter sections are barely the width of a hiker's shoulders—and can require a bit of squeeze (especially for sturdier folks, like myself), as well as ducking or sticking close to the face of a cliff.

For hikers who don't care for squeezing through tight spaces, I think the hike along the Trail Through Time may be a little challenging. That said, you may be able to avoid the narrow parts of the trail and enjoy at least a few of the views along the way—check out the map on AllTrails to be sure—although you'll miss out on some of the hike's incredible rock formations and geological wonders if you do.

On the other hand, the natural area's incredible geology and the views from the top make the hike totally worthwhile. They also demonstrate why this trail was tapped as a National Natural Landmark more than 50 years ago.

While the Trail Through Time may be the most claustrophobic hike in Missouri, it's definitely worthwhile if you can power through to the top. Have you hiked this scenic Missouri trail? What are some other hikes in Missouri that claustrophobes should avoid? Be sure to tell us about them over on our Nomination page.

Are you ready to start mapping out your next hiking adventure in the Show Me State? If so, head over to Only In Your State’s AI-powered itinerary planner for some inspiration.