Hiking promises so many adventures, whether we expect them or not. We never know who we're going to meet or what we're going to experience along the many hiking trails in Missouri. For a peek at the past, lace up your hiking boots for a journey along one or all of these trails that lead to castle ruins in Missouri.

1. Castle Trail — Camdenton

Explore the ruins of Ha Ha Tonka Castle when you set off on the Castle Trail in Ha Ha Tonka State Park. At under a mile, the Castle Trail is rated easy and is handicap accessible. Begin your castle ruins hike at one of the castle's parking lots.

With construction completed in 1920, the majestic castle served as a residence of the Snyder family for several years before being converted into a hotel. However, tragedy struck when a fire ripped through the castle. Today, visitors visit the remnants of the castle and the park named after it. Learn more about the fascinating Ha Ha Tonka Castle.

2. Fort Belle Fontaine Loop Trail — St. Louis

Expect plenty of company when you set off on the Fort Belle Fontaine Loop Trail near St. Louis. With a rating of moderate, the trail spans nearly three miles. The terrain along the trail can get muddy, especially after a rainfall. Fort Belle Fontaine Park, established in 1986, pays homage to the United States' first military installation west of the Mississippi, which opened in 1805. You'll see the remnants of stone buildings constructed by St. Louis' Works Progress Administration. Some also say that the spirit of a former soldier haunts the trail. The hike to see them is one of the best hikes to ruins in Missouri. Discover more about the Fort Belle Fontaine Loop.

3. Engine House Ruins Trail — Belleview

Another great choice for seeing castle ruins in Missouri, tucked in Elephant Rocks State Park, the Engine House Ruins Trail stretches just a mile and a half. The paved trail, rated easy, is also handicap accessible. Stroll along the paved path that will lead you to an abandoned 1902 train engine house. During the early part of the 20th century, the engine house was built in what is now Elephant Rocks State Park. It served as a place to repair trains that hauled granite. Read more about Engine House Ruins Trail.

4. Welch Spring Trail — Shannon County

At just one mile, the Welch Spring Trail is rated easy. And despite its rating, it's usually quite quiet on the trail. Meander along the trail that will lead you to the ruins of a hospital from the early 1900s. Dr. C.H. Diehl oversaw the construction of the hospital, built at the opening of a cave. The cave, he believed, had air that was free of pollen, making it ideal for those with respiratory problems such as asthma. What would now be considered a "health spa," the hospital closed upon the doctor's death. A great hike to abandoned ruins in Missouri, just please do not wade in or try to swim in the spring, as it is prohibited. Learn more about Welch Spring Trail.

Make sure that you have sturdy, good footwear for hiking. If you need something new, check out the hiking footwear at REI.

Do you have favorite hikes to abandoned ruins in Missouri? Tell us about them in the comments!

Love waterfalls? If you love waterfalls and hiking, get your fill of both along the Ultimate Road Trip To The Best Waterfalls in Missouri.