History Trail, Missouri Trail, and Riverview Boardwalk loop

This loop is rated as moderate. While it features some relatively flat sections, particularly along the Riverview Boardwalk, the overall distance of nearly 14.2 km (8.8 miles) and an elevation gain of approximately 269 meters (883 feet) contribute to its moderate classification. It's suitable for hikers with a reasonable level of fitness.

The loop is primarily located within Fontenelle Forest. You can typically find parking at the Fontenelle Forest Nature Center, which serves as a central access point for many trails in the area. Check the Fontenelle Forest website for specific parking instructions and any potential fees.

Yes, as this loop is located within Fontenelle Forest, an entrance fee or membership is required to access the trails. These fees help support the conservation and maintenance of the forest. You can purchase day passes or memberships at the Fontenelle Forest Nature Center.

Fontenelle Forest has specific regulations regarding dogs. Generally, dogs are permitted on designated trails but must be kept on a leash at all times. Please ensure you clean up after your pet to help maintain the natural environment. Always check the official Fontenelle Forest website for the most current pet policies before your visit.

Spring and fall are generally the best times to hike this loop. In spring, you'll experience lush greenery and blooming wildflowers, while fall offers vibrant foliage. Summer can be hot and humid, so an early start is recommended if hiking during warmer months. Winter hiking is possible, but be prepared for potentially icy or snowy conditions, especially on less-trafficked sections.

The loop offers a diverse range of terrain. You'll encounter sections of accessible boardwalk, particularly along the Riverview Boardwalk, as well as natural dirt paths through bottomland forests and along ridges. Some parts may feature mixed surfaces like gravel or packed earth. Sturdy hiking shoes are recommended due to the varied surfaces and potential for uneven ground.

This loop offers several notable sights. You'll pass by Hidden Lake — Great Marsh, offering scenic wetland views, and the Missouri River Viewpoint for expansive river vistas. The route also goes near Tom's Treehouse and Play Fort, a fun spot for families, and the Fontenelle Forest Nature Center.

Fontenelle Forest is a haven for wildlife. Along the Riverview Boardwalk and through the forest, you might spot a variety of birds, including great blue herons, barred owls, and migratory songbirds. Keep an eye out for deer, squirrels, and other small mammals. The diverse habitats, from wetlands to forests, support a rich array of flora and fauna.

Yes, this comprehensive loop utilizes several trails within Fontenelle Forest. You'll hike sections of the Oak Trail, Missouri Trail, Signal Ridge Trail, Grey Squirrel Trail, Riverview Boardwalk, Mormon Hollow, Linden Trail, and History Trail, among others. This interconnected network allows for varied hiking experiences and the possibility of creating shorter or longer routes.

Restrooms and water fountains are available at the Fontenelle Forest Nature Center, which is a common starting and ending point for this loop. Given the length of the hike, it's advisable to carry sufficient water with you, especially during warmer months, as there are no other designated water sources directly on the trail.

While the full 14.2 km loop is rated moderate and might be challenging for very young children, sections of the trail, particularly the Riverview Boardwalk and areas around the Tom's Treehouse and Play Fort, are very family-friendly. You can choose to hike shorter segments or explore the Nature Center area with younger kids. The interpretive exhibits along the boardwalk can also be engaging for children.