Grab the Wool Socks for This Hike in Missouri That’s 100% Worth Braving the Cold

Calling all wilderness lovers! Pull up those wool socks for a stunning winter hike in Missouri. It can be tempting to stay inside snuggled up in the cooler months; but there's a world of beauty waiting outside, and by taking a few simple steps to prep and gear up, you can make the most of the winter wonderland at Cuivre River State Park. The Lone Spring Trail near Troy, Missouri, has many sights, sounds, and smells to delight the senses and maybe make you a little less sad about winter (especially if you're like me and get seasonal depression). 

The first step to embracing the chill is proper preparation. Start by checking the forecast and identifying three or four days with the warmest temperatures. Then, on those warm days, find a chunk of time when the sun is at its peak and the temperature is at its highest. Plan your outdoor excursions during these times to make the experience more enjoyable. A little sunshine in winter can go a long way!

Once you've chosen your days, gear up to stay warm and comfortable. Layering is key to retaining body heat, so opt for fleece-lined layers, ear coverings, gloves, and long tank tops to create a barrier against the cold. Keeping your hands, ears, and feet warm is also crucial. That's why I love these fun, colorful wool socks; get yourself a pair so you can be prepared for those cold-weather hikes.  

Now that you’re properly prepared, l want to share why I love this winter hiking trail so much! My sister-in-law and I take an annual Thanksgiving day hike to feel less gluttonous on a “food holiday,” and this year, we chose the south loop of Lone Spring Trail at Cuiver River State Park. Even though all the leaves in the park had fallen, all the green blew me away! Moss and lichens lit up the base of trees, creek bluffs, and fallen logs. If you looked hard enough, you could see native wild ferns still growing in the creek beds. 

The trail was also laden with an array of mushroom species, like turkey tail growing on logs that looked like they’d been there for decades. We heard birds calling and squirrels bouncing from treetop to treetop. Keep walking to the north loop of the trail to see where the underground spring that feeds the stream emerges.

If you don't make it there, you’ll still enjoy sprawling creek beds as you traverse the trail's various - and, at times, challenging - ups and downs. One of my favorite spots along this trail is the spur that leads to Shady Eight Ranch Lake in the northernmost part of Cuivre River State Park. It is totally secluded and feels like you’re discovering something other humans have never seen.

The Lone Spring Trail in Cuivre River State Park passes through protected Missouri Natural Area System spaces. These areas protect the remaining examples of Missouri’s natural animal and plant communities, meaning the areas feel wild and natural. Even in winter, there is always something to see along this unique trail: open woodlands, creeks, bluffs, wild native plants, and more! Will this trail make it on your Missouri outdoor adventure bucket list?