The best walks and hikes around Columbia
5.0
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127
hikers
20
hikes
Hiking trails around Columbia primarily feature routes within county parks and along river greenways. The landscape is characterized by established park trails and paths that follow the Mississippi River. These routes provide access to natural areas and recreational spaces. The terrain is generally gentle, making it accessible for various activity levels.
Best hiking trails around Columbia
- The most popular hiking route is Spring Valley Trail and Inner Loop Trail to river overlook, a 4.5 miles (7.3 km) trail that…
Last updated: June 24, 2026
5.0
(1)
16
hikers
5.29km
01:26
60m
90m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
hikers
2.84km
00:44
20m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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12
hikers
7.32km
01:55
50m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
8
hikers
7.11km
01:47
0m
0m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
hikers
4.37km
01:08
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Columbia
Tips from the Community
This is a multi-use trail that follows the Mississippi River through Clff Cave Park. It's a flat, paved path that's perfect for running, and you get some wonderful views up and down the waterway that distract you from the hard work.
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A 525 acre park with two primary mtb trails. The Spring Valley Trail is a flowy beginner level trail that rolls in and around the trees. The River Bluff Trail is a more technical loop that flows through rock gardens and a ledge drop. Both take you through heavily wooded areas with ponds, sinkholes, and a variety of wildlife.
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There are three main trails in Cliff Cave County Park. The Spring Valley Trail here offers the best chance to stretch your legs, but the trail continues in a secondary, inner loop that lets you add on to your walk if you so desire, and a River Bluff Trail to the north that leads to a nice overlook of the river. The third trail is down below the cliffs and should be reached via an easy walk. Don't believe any mapping apps that try to steer you down steep, dangerous-looking terrain — those are technical rock climbing routes!
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This paved trail circles Jefferson Barracks County Park, and makes a great walk before or after a visit to the Jefferson Barracks Telephone Museum. Keep an eye out for deer and other wildlife — and please do not feed the deer.
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Originally built in 1896 as part of Officers' Row in a military base, this carefully restored building now houses an extensive collection of telephones and related equipment. It is on the National Register of Historic Places and well worth a visit, but it has limited hours and days (usually just Wednesday through Sunday). There is a modest entry fee. More information here: http://www.jbtelmuseum.org/hoursadmission-directionsparking.html
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When the trees are bare, you can get a pretty overlook for the Mississippi River from this viewpoint.
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This flat trail makes for easy walking through a mix of sun and shade — unless it's flooded or closed to potential flooding, which can happen several times a year.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the general difficulty level of hiking trails around Columbia?
The hiking trails around Columbia are generally considered easy to moderate. Out of 18 available routes, 15 are rated as easy, and 3 are moderate, making them accessible for a wide range of activity levels.
How many hiking trails are available in the Columbia area?
There are over 15 hiking trails available for exploration around Columbia. These routes primarily traverse county parks and follow river greenways, offering diverse outdoor experiences.
Are there any circular hiking routes in Columbia?
Yes, there are several circular routes. For example, the Dennis Schick Trail loop — Jefferson Barracks County Park is an easy 2.7-mile path that explores the park grounds. Another option is the Mississippi Greenway Trail loop — Cliff Cave County Park, which is a longer 4.4-mile easy route.
Are there trails that follow the Mississippi River?
Yes, many trails in the Columbia area utilize the Mississippi River greenways. A notable option is the Mississippi River Greenway from Jefferson Barracks County Park, which offers a 2.6-mile path along the riverfront.
Are there any trails with viewpoints or scenic overlooks?
Yes, you can find scenic overlooks. The Spring Valley Trail and Inner Loop Trail to river overlook — Cliff Cave County Park offers views of the river. You can also visit the River overlook highlight for specific scenic spots.
What do other hikers say about the trails in Columbia?
The trails in Columbia are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an average rating of 5.0 stars. Hikers appreciate the accessible natural areas and well-maintained park trails.
Are the hiking trails around Columbia suitable for families?
Given that 15 out of 18 routes are rated as easy and the terrain is generally gentle, many of the hiking trails around Columbia are suitable for families. They offer accessible natural areas within county parks.
Are there any longer hiking options for more experienced hikers?
While most trails are easy, there are moderate options for those seeking a bit more challenge. The Dennis Schick Trail loop and Mississippi River Greenway — St. Louis, Missouri is a moderate 6.2-mile route that combines park trails with the river greenway.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see along the trails?
The trails primarily feature river greenways and established park landscapes. You'll encounter natural areas along the Mississippi River and within county parks. Highlights include the Boathouse Lake Pavilion and Horseshoe Lake in Carondelet Park.
Are there any specific trails that are particularly popular?
Among the most popular routes are the Spring Valley Trail and Inner Loop Trail to river overlook — Cliff Cave County Park, and the Dennis Schick Trail loop — Jefferson Barracks County Park. These are frequently explored by local hikers.
What types of parks or areas do the hiking trails cover?
The hiking trails around Columbia are mainly located within county parks and along river greenways. These include areas like Cliff Cave County Park and Jefferson Barracks County Park, offering access to natural spaces and recreational facilities.
Most popular routes around Columbia
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