Lewis and Clark Trail Loop

The Lewis and Clark Trail Loop is located within the Weldon Spring Conservation Area. You'll find designated parking areas at the trailheads within the conservation area, providing direct access to the loop.

Yes, the trail is generally dog-friendly. However, it's always best to keep your dog on a leash to protect wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all hikers.

The trail offers beauty year-round. Spring brings wildflowers, and fall foliage is particularly scenic. Winter and spring rains can make the trail muddy, increasing difficulty, so be prepared for conditions during those seasons.

No, there are typically no permits or entrance fees required to access the trails within the Weldon Spring Conservation Area, making it a freely accessible destination for hikers.

The trail features a flexible figure-8 double-loop design. You can choose to hike the shorter western loop (Clark Trail, around 5 miles), the eastern loop (Lewis Trail, also around 5 miles), or combine both for a longer hike of over 8 miles, catering to various fitness levels.

You'll encounter diverse terrain, including packed earth, wide flat sections, and challenging inclines. The path winds along bluffs, descends into valleys, and crosses creek beds. Expect rocky sections and switchbacks, especially on uphill climbs. It passes through upland forests and river bottomlands.

A major highlight is the spectacular views of the Missouri River valley from numerous bluffs and ledges, including the Missouri River Overlook. You'll also find a Bench at a scenic spot, and the trail itself, known as the Clark Trail, offers varied environments.

This trail traces a path historically walked by Meriwether Lewis and William Clark themselves during their 1803-1805 expedition. They explored these bluffs while their crew navigated the Missouri River, and interpretive signs along the way provide historical context.

The trail winds through upland forests of hickory and oak, with some cedar, and river bottomlands featuring sycamore and cottonwood trees. Keep an eye out for wildlife such as deer and various bird species, including scarlet tanagers and indigo buntings. Wildflowers are also present depending on the season.

Yes, the route also passes through sections of the Lewis & Clark Trail and the Katy Trail, a well-known rail-to-trail path that runs along the Missouri River. You might even hear cyclists on the Katy Trail below.

While some initial sections are wide and flat, suitable for shorter, easier out-and-back hikes, other parts feature long, steady, and sometimes rocky uphill climbs. Families with younger children or those seeking an easier experience might consider shorter segments of the trail.