Easy hikes and walks around Columbia
4.7
(23)
189
hikers
26
hikes
Easy hiking trails around Columbia offer diverse natural settings for outdoor exploration. The region features a landscape characterized by gentle elevations, often following natural waterways and through established parklands. These trails provide accessible options for experiencing local flora and fauna, with routes suitable for various activity levels.
Best easy hiking trails around Columbia
- The most popular easy hiking route is Forum Nature Area Lake Trail, a 1.7 mile (2.7 km) trail that takes about 40 minutes to complete. This…
Last updated: June 25, 2026
5.0
(1)
9
hikers
2.67km
00:40
0m
0m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2.81km
00:43
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.28km
01:07
50m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
689m
00:11
20m
0m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
hikers
7.72km
01:58
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Cosmo Park is a fun spot for the entire family. With a golf course, playground, sporting fields, and a load of other amenities, there is something for everyone. The park features its own small trail system, and the Bear Creek Trail runs through the heart of the property.
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'Fishing Lake' is part of 'Twin Lakes Recreation Area' and, as the name indicates, is mainly used for fishing. Besides that, there is a nice and short trail leading around the lake, which includes picnic areas.
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'Forum Nature Area' is a 100 acre large area, located next to 'MTK Trail'. It includes a restroom, stretching stations and a short trail around a little lake.
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MKT Trail in Missouri has a total length of 240 miles, is a multi-use trail and was rated “Best Urban Trail” in the 2016 USA Today’s "10 Best Readers’ Choice Awards". This section in Columbia leads along Twin Lakes Recreation Area and passes through a beautiful forest and over a nice bridge.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many easy hiking trails are available in Columbia?
Columbia offers a good selection of easy hiking trails, with over 10 routes specifically categorized as easy. In total, there are 17 hiking routes available in the area, catering to various preferences.
What kind of terrain can I expect on easy hikes around Columbia?
Easy hikes in Columbia typically feature gentle elevations and often follow natural waterways or established parklands. Many routes, like the MKT Nature and Fitness Trail, utilize former railway lines, providing smooth surfaces through green corridors.
Are there any family-friendly easy hikes in Columbia?
Yes, many of the easy trails in Columbia are suitable for families. Routes like the Forum Nature Area Lake Trail offer flat terrain around a lake, making them ideal for a leisurely walk with children.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Columbia?
The komoot community highly rates the trails in Columbia, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 15 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the accessible park trails, former railway paths, and routes alongside creeks, highlighting the diverse yet easy-to-navigate terrain.
Are there any loop trails among the easy hiking options?
Yes, you can find easy loop trails in Columbia. For example, the MKT Trail to Twin Lakes Loop offers a longer, yet easy, circular route for exploring the area.
What interesting landmarks or natural features can I see along the easy hiking trails?
Along Columbia's easy hiking trails, you can discover several interesting points. Highlights include the Hindman Junction where the Katy and MKT trails intersect, the unique Boathenge, and natural features like Torbett Spring and the impressive Burr Oak Big Tree. You can also visit Stephens Lake Park.
Are there any easy trails that follow waterways?
Yes, several easy trails in Columbia follow waterways. The Bear Creek Trail, for instance, leads through wooded areas and alongside the creek, offering a pleasant natural experience.
What is the typical duration for an easy hike in Columbia?
The duration for easy hikes varies, but many can be completed in under an hour. For example, the Forum Nature Area Lake Trail typically takes about 40 minutes, while the Bear Creek Trail is usually completed in about 1 hour and 7 minutes.
Are there any shorter, easy trails for a quick walk?
For a shorter, easy walk, consider the Capen Park Trail. It's less than a mile long and can be completed in just over 10 minutes, making it perfect for a quick outdoor escape.
Can I find trails that are suitable for cycling as well as hiking?
Many of the easy trails, particularly those built on former railway lines like the MKT Nature and Fitness Trail, offer smooth surfaces that are also popular with cyclists, providing a versatile option for outdoor activity.
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