Eagle Bluffs Conservation Area soars above the KATY Trail
Eagle Bluffs Conservation Area, near Columbia, Mo.
A 4,000-acre wildlife refuge is intersected by the KATY Trail amid 200-foot bluffs.
Trail Eagle Bluffs Overlook Trail and the KATY Trail at Eagle Bluffs Conservation Area, near Columbia, Mo.
Overview
Not far from I-70 is a 4,000-acre wetland area bordering the Missouri River. That’s not unusual. But the spectacular scenery sets this area apart. Eagle Bluffs Conservation Area is capped by 200-foot bluffs overlooking the river valley. You can access the overlook from a rural road near Columbia, Mo. It’s an easy one-mile walk to the overlook. From there, you can turn around and head back or head down the bluffs and jump on the KATY Trail, which runs immediately below the overlook. On the KATY Trail, a nearby highlight is Roche Percée Natural Arch, which is about a half-mile north. About two miles to the south is Boathenge, an Ozark-like replica of Stonehenge, but made of buried boats. Really. You are also free to explore the conservation area, which is a vibrant home for waterfowl (including Eagles) and other wildlife.An alternative way to access Eagle Bluffs Conservation area is to park at the McBain trailhead in Boone County and walk from there to the Eagle Bluffs overlook. That way you can enjoy spectacular bluff scenery all the way to the overlook.
Length
From the parking lot on S. Warren School Road, the Eagle Bluffs Overlook Trail is one mile out and back (a total of two miles).
From the McBain KATY Trail head, it’s about 3 miles to Eagle Bluffs Overlook.
Address and location The Eagle Bluffs Overlook Trail head is southwest of Columbia, Mo, on S. Warren School Road. The direct Google Maps link is here and also posted below. There are a few designated parking spaces and you can also park on the shoulder of Warren School Road.
You can also begin at the McBain KATY Trail head and walk east about three miles to the overlook. The trail head, and parking, are at 7300 West Route K, Columbia, Mo.
Conditions The Eagle Bluffs Overlook Trail is a mowed and dirt path that is level and easy to find and follow. The KATY Trail has a pea gravel surface.
Kid friendly? The Eagle Bluffs Overlook Trail doesn’t accommodate strollers, so children will need to walk. The overlook is fenced in, but parents will want to be mindful of children and the steep drop. The optional climb up and down from the overlook to the KATY Trail is challenging. The KATY Trail is level and easy, but parents need to be mindful of bike traffic.
How busy? This trail is near Columbia and can be heavily trafficked on ideal days.
Pets Yes, on a leash (unless otherwise designated).
Bikes Permitted on the KATY Trail.
Other hiking opportunities near Columbia, Mo.
