Burr Oak Big Tree – Big Burr Oak Tree loop from Columbia

Burr Oak Big Tree – Big Burr Oak Tree loop from Columbia

Moderate

4.8

(8270)

9,910

riders

Burr Oak Big Tree – Big Burr Oak Tree loop from Columbia

04:24

83.3km

240m

Gravel riding

Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is right next to a parking lot.

Last updated: September 26, 2026

Waypoints

Start point

Parking

Get Directions

4.04 km

MKT Trail

Highlight (Segment) • Trail

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.

Tip by

13.0 km

Hindman Junction at the intersect of the Katy and MKT trails

Highlight • Trail

From Hindman Junction you can cycle 94.6 miles to the western terminus of the Katy Trail in Clinton, Missouri, and 143.1 miles to the eastern terminus of the Katy Trail in Machens, Missouri. From here you can also cycle 8.9 miles to the northern terminus of the MKT trail in downtown Columbia.

Tip by

14.6 km

Burr Oak Big Tree

Highlight • Natural Monument

Just off the Katy Trail near McBaine stands the McBaine Bur Oak, affectionately known as the Burr Oak Big Tree. Estimated to be between 350 and 400 years old, this majestic tree boasts a trunk circumference of 287 inches, a height of approximately 90 feet, and a canopy spread of 130 feet. As the largest bur oak in Missouri, it shares the title of national champion with a counterpart in Kentucky. Situated about half a mile from the Missouri River, it's believed that the Lewis and Clark Expedition passed within sight of this enduring natural landmark. Accessible via a short detour from the trail, the tree offers a serene spot to pause and reflect amidst the beauty of the Missouri River floodplain.

Tip by

14.9 km

Big Burr Oak Tree

Highlight • Natural Monument

The Big Burr Oak is estimated to be over 350 years old! It’s one of the oldest and largest bur oaks in the country, standing about 90 feet tall with a massive spread.

Tip by

24.9 km

Providence Access

Nature Reserve

27.8 km

Boathenge

Highlight • Structure

Stop near mile marker 163 on the Katy Trail to see Boathenge—a circle of upright fiberglass boats arranged like Stonehenge on the Missouri River floodplain. Built in the 1990s, it’s easy to spot near Cooper’s Landing.

Tip by

36.3 km

The Shack

Highlight • Rest Area

A charming self‑serve stand just off the trail offering cold drinks, ice cream, jams, jellies, farm‑fresh eggs, and sunflower seeds for feeding birds. Operated on the honor system—just drop in a few small bills and enjoy a sweet, unexpected trailside pause.

Tip by

44.0 km

Hartsburg

Highlight • Settlement

This small village was named after early settler Luther D. Hart, who sold land to the Missouri–Kansas–Texas Railroad in the late 1800s. The trail runs near downtown, where you’ll spot historic buildings like the 1897 Samuel E. Hackman Building. While in-town options are limited, the Claysville Store—about 4 miles east—offers homemade meals and restrooms on weekends. Hartsburg also borders the Hart Creek Conservation Area, adding natural beauty to this quiet stretch of trail.

Tip by

74.4 km

Brushwood Lake

Lake

78.7 km

Wooden Bridge in Hinkson Woods Conservation Area

Highlight • Bridge

Hinkson Woods offers a leafy escape just off the MKT Trail. Enjoy 2 miles of mown multi-use paths winding through forest and open grasslands along Hinkson Creek. The trail links up with the university rec trail and provides easy access to nearby Grindstone Nature Area and MKT system—giving you plenty of options for loop rides.

Tip by

83.3 km

End point

Parking

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types