Devil's Honeycomb Trail

Parking is available at the trailhead for the Devil's Honeycomb Trail, which is located within the Hughes Mountain Natural Area. You can find detailed directions and parking information on the Missouri Department of Conservation website.

No, there are no entrance fees or permits required to hike the Devil's Honeycomb Trail or access the Hughes Mountain Natural Area. It is free to visit.

Yes, the trail is generally dog-friendly. However, due to the rugged terrain with large rocks and boulders, it's advisable to keep your dog on a leash and ensure they are comfortable navigating uneven surfaces.

Spring and fall are ideal for hiking the Devil's Honeycomb Trail. In spring, you can see wildflowers blooming in the cracks of the rhyolite formations. Fall offers pleasant temperatures and beautiful foliage. The views from the honeycomb are particularly stunning at sunset.

The terrain is varied and can be rugged. It starts by crossing fields before entering wooded areas. As you ascend, the path becomes narrower and features large rocks and boulders. There's a steady, moderate climb to the summit, and some sections involve navigating over rough, loose rocks and tree roots.

While generally rated as moderate, its relatively short length and gradual incline make it accessible for beginners and families. However, caution is advised due to narrow sections and rough, loose rocks, especially for young children. It's an out-and-back trail, approximately 0.8 to 1.6 miles round trip.

The primary highlight is the Devil's Honeycomb itself—unique rhyolite rock formations resembling polygonal columns, formed billions of years ago. These deep red formations are often covered in sea-green lichens. You'll also pass through natural glades, woods, and open savannas.

From the summit of Hughes Mountain, you can enjoy expansive 360-degree views. This includes panoramic western vistas of the Washington County countryside, lush green valleys, and distant hills.

The Devil's Honeycomb Trail is an out-and-back route. You hike to the unique geological formations and the summit, then return along the same path.

Consider planning your hike to be at the Devil's Honeycomb formations around sunset for particularly stunning views. Wear sturdy hiking shoes with good ankle support due to the rocky and uneven terrain. Bring water, especially on warmer days, as there are no water sources on the trail.

The trail is relatively short, with an average hiking time of about 23 minutes for the full out-and-back route. This can vary depending on your pace and how much time you spend exploring the geological formations and enjoying the views.