Best Trail Running in Missouri

Trying to find the best trail running in Missouri? Bivy has great hiking, biking, paddling, climbing, skiing, riding and more, with hand-curated trail maps, as well as detailed driving directions.

1

Missouri, Iron County

10 :29 hrs
28.9 mi
315.95502 ft
Extreme

This is a rugged but scenic trail that passes by an awesome swimming area. The trail travels through odd rock formations and old forest glades. Watch for cairns.

2

Missouri, Weston

01 :04 hrs
3.1 mi
11.779449 ft
Hard

This is a popular trail for hikers and bicyclists looking for a fun and easy-going trail. You will see glimpses of the Missouri River along the way. Keep your eyes out for waterfowl and migratory birds. The trail is mostly flat but does have some gentle grades. The north half of this trail is paved and the south half has a fine gravel surface.

3

Missouri, Greene County

01 :53 hrs
5 mi
50.14499 ft
Easy

A hike offering historic interest as well as beauty located in Wilson's Creek National Battlefield.

4

Missouri, Grain Valley

02 :22 hrs
6.1 mi
50.40515 ft
Hard

Located at Landahl Park, this route follows the Tasty Goodness Trail for most of the way. Very fun with quite a bit of gain for Missouri

5

Missouri, Cole County

00 :50 hrs
3.3 mi
29.352997 ft
Moderate

Green Loop at Binder Lake. Fun for all skill levels. Smooth singletrack with mild climbs and some technical rocky sections.

6

Illinois, Jersey County

04 :00 hrs
20.5 mi
33.130646 ft
Expert

This rails-to-trails route is one of the best in Illinois for road biking as it travels near a large scenic river, against big bluffs, and offers excellent wildlife and plantlife along the route. Starting from Pere Marquette State Park, the trail follows the Illinois River to its confluence with the Mississippi River and onward through multiple small towns and wildlife refuge areas that are home to abundant wildlife, especially eagles during the winter. Sections of the ride merge with the scenic byway that is known for river scenery on one side and large rock bluffs on the other. The trail ends at Piasa Park where riders can learn about the legend of the Piasa Bird for which the park is named. The ride can be done as a longer out-and-back or a one-way trip by shuttling vehicles between the two trailheads. The route is all asphalt path and paved roadway with some hills, especially in the first 3 miles, that add some challenge to the ride.

7

Missouri, Jefferson County

01 :00 hrs
2.5 mi
70.766495 ft
Moderate

Moderate hike through wooded area with interesting rock formations and several creek crossings.

8

Illinois, Pontoon Beach

01 :14 hrs
3.7 mi
2.637329 ft
Moderate

This loop nature trail located in Horseshoe Lake State Park offers excellent birdwatching opportunity as it follows along the shores of Walker Island. The trail starts just after crossing the road onto the island and from there follows the shoreline closely, much of the time right next to the water where lots of waterfowl habitat is found. The trail is very level and easy to follow making it a great option for hikers of all levels who enjoy birdwatching. The state park also offers boating and fishing on the lake as well as picnic areas and campgrounds.

9

Kansas, Leawood

00 :54 hrs
8.8 mi
30.600494 ft
Easy

More than 12 miles of paved trail follow a greenbelt along the Indian Creek, through Overland Park, and along Tomahawk Creek, through Leawood. It weaves through a business park, residential areas, and thirteen park areas in Overland Park. Much of the trail is surprisingly quiet and some parts are even secluded, despite travelling through the city. The trail is very beautiful and scenic and showcases the natural beauty of the creeks and the forest that borders the creeks. The trail can be quite crowded and congested at times. Several access points are found throughout, making it easy to customize your trip for different lengths.

10

Illinois, Jersey County

02 :19 hrs
5.8 mi
105.66618 ft
Hard

Located at the confluence of the Illinois and Mississippi rivers, this large state park offers miles of trails that explore the scenic and diverse landscape of rolling hills, wooded ravines, and high bluffs with excellent views of the river below. The state park is known for its beautiful colors during the fall and bald eagle viewings during the winter. This hike is done by utilizing multiple connecting trails within the park to complete a long loop. The trails can be broken up and hiked individually for shorter distances giving hikers of all skill levels plenty of opportunity to enjoy the area.

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