Take This Epic Night Hike To See Missouri State Parks Like Never Before

Many of the state parks across Missouri open at dawn and close at dusk. However, several times a year many of the state parks are opening up after sunset to show you a whole new side of Missouri. If you love hiking Missouri State Parks, you're going to love taking one of the night hikes they're offering seasonally. This is an opportunity to see some of the best State Parks in Missouri in a completely new light (or lack thereof). If you're looking for state parks to visit in Missouri, consider this unconventional but beautiful approach to a nature experience.

If you've always wondered what Missouri State Parks are like after dark, you now have the opportunity to find out! This summer, hikers will have the chance to explore the trails, after dark, at Ha Ha Tonka State Park, Louis and Clark State Park, and Crowder State Park.

Each hike is led by park staff. They will guide you along the trails and help point out nocturnal wildlife along the way.

Each hike is short and fairly easy. However, since it will be dark out they advise you to bring a flashlight to help illuminate the path. These night hikes began in 2018 and have been running once or several times a year ever since due to their wild popularity.

You'll also want to pack bug spray. All three hikes will take you near water where the bugs tend to congregate. Comfortable clothing and closed toe shoes are also recommended. You want to be dressed for comfort and movability to best enjoy your hike rather than worrying about a lack of proper equipment.

As you navigate the trails, keep an eye out for frogs, raccoons, opossums, and other night loving creatures. You'll see all kinds of animals and insects that you never would during a night hike.

Park staff will also help you learn the unique calls of various owls that call the park home. You can even learn how to identify the different species based on their calls. These night hikes aren't just beautiful, they're incredibly educational.

Keep an eye out on the Missouri State Parks website and social media to find out when the night hikes will be hosted. Visitors will hike Spring Trail and others and will meet at the lake parking lot prior to the start time.

Each hike offers a unique experience and stunning views of the night sky. You'll see Missouri State Parks in a whole new light after venturing out on one of these epic night hikes.

Have you taken a night hike at a Missouri State Park? Tell us about your hiking experience in the comments below. We'd love to hear how the experience was different from a day hike and which version you like best. Perhaps an impossible question!

Love exploring Missouri's wild spaces? You're in luck -- we've compiled a list of some of the best state parks in Missouri.