Cedar Creek Trail Mark Twain National Forest

The Cedar Creek Trail in Mark Twain National Forest offers a 36-mile hiking experience through diverse landscapes. This trail system, located in central Missouri, features multiple segments including the Southern Loop, Smith Creek Section, and Pine Ridge Section. Hikers can explore pastoral countryside, scenic bluffs, and forested areas while navigating moderately challenging terrain. The trail is best enjoyed during cooler months and requires careful preparation due to its poor markings and varied difficulty levels.

What is the Length of Cedar Creek Trail?

The Cedar Creek Trail System in Mark Twain National Forest spans a total of 36 miles. It is divided into several distinct segments:

1. Southern Loop:
2. Length: 22 miles
3. Marking: Grey diamonds

4. Terrain: Two-thirds cross-country, one-third gravel roads

5. Smith Creek Section:

6. Length: 6 miles
7. Marking: Red diamonds

8. Features: Scenic views of Cedar Creek from bluffs

9. Pine Ridge Section:

10. Marking: Grey diamonds
11. Access: Open to foot travel and mountain bikes only
12. Note: Separate horse route available to the west

When are the Best Seasons to Hike Cedar Creek Trail?

The optimal seasons for hiking Cedar Creek Trail are typically spring and fall, avoiding the challenges of extreme weather conditions:

• Spring:
• Mild temperatures
• Before poison ivy and insect season

• Scenic with blooming vegetation

• Fall:

• Cooler temperatures
• Colorful foliage
• Less insect activity

Season	Advantages	Disadvantages
Spring	Mild weather, blooming flora	Potential for rain, muddy trails
Summer	Long daylight hours	High temperatures, biting insects
Fall	Cool weather, fall colors	Shorter days, potential for early frost
Winter	No insects, clear views	Cold temperatures, potential snow/ice

What Precautions Should Hikers Take on Cedar Creek Trail?

Hikers should be well-prepared and take several precautions when exploring Cedar Creek Trail:

1. Navigation Tools:
2. Bring a map and compass
3. Consider using a USGS topographical map or quality navigation app

4. Trail is poorly marked, making navigation challenging

5. Property Awareness:

6. Be mindful of private property boundaries

7. Avoid trespassing on non-trail areas

8. Wildlife and Hunting:

9. Be aware of hunting seasons
10. Wear bright colors during hunting season

11. Exercise caution in fields with grazing cattle (mid-April to mid-October)

12. Bridge Safety:

13. Use caution on Rutherford Bridge

14. No horses allowed on the bridge

15. Weather Preparedness:

16. Avoid hiking during excessively wet periods
17. Prepare for high temperatures and insects in warmer months
18. Bring appropriate gear for potential weather changes

How Difficult is the Cedar Creek Trail?

The Cedar Creek Trail is generally considered moderately challenging:

• Terrain Variety:
• Dirt paths
• Gravel roads
• Rugged pathways
• High cliffs

• Forests and prairies

• Navigation Challenges:

• Poorly marked trails

• Requires map-reading skills and orientation abilities

• Physical Demands:

• Varied terrain including cross-country sections
• Gravel road hiking
• Potential for steep inclines and declines

Hikers should be in good physical condition and prepared for a mix of easy and more challenging sections throughout the trail system.

Where are the Trailhead Locations for Cedar Creek Trail?

Cedar Creek Trail offers multiple access points and trailheads:

1. Burnett School Road Trailhead:
2. Directions: From Hwy 63 South of Columbia, take Hwy Y east, then right on Burnett School Road

3. Parking: Available on the south side of Cedar Creek Bridge

4. Clinkenbeard Road Access:

5. Directions: From Hwy 63 South of Columbia, take Hwy H east to South Clinkenbeard Road

6. Parking: Small spots available along the road

7. Rutherford Bridge Trailhead:

8. Directions: From Hwy 63 South of Columbia, take Hwy H east through Englewood

9. Parking: Multiple car parking available at the bridge where the road ends

10. Smith Creek Trail Access Points:

11. Locations: Near Boydsville, Callaway County, and Paris Fork Church/Cemetery
12. GPS Coordinates:
    • 38.814434, -92.111376
    • 38.81104, -92.113244

Hikers should plan their route and choose the most convenient trailhead based on their intended hiking section and direction.

References:
1. Cedar Creek Trail – COMO Trail Association
2. MTNF – Cedar Creek District | The Compulsive Hiker
3. Cedar Creek Trail System, Mark Twain National Forest – KC Hiker