Towering cliffs and serenity: KATY Trail at Hart Creek Conservation Area
Hart Conservation Area and the KATY Trail, Hartsburg, Mo., Boone County
A ridgetop trail traverses mid-Missouri timber before intersecting with the KATY Trail.
Trail Hart Creek Conservation Trail and the KATY Trail.
Overview
Hart Creek Conservation Area, between Jefferson City and Columbia, Mo., includes about 650 acres of upland timber, ridges and Missouri River bluffs. A natural surface trail that’s about 1.5 miles long begins at the conservation area parking lot near the small town of Hartsburg, Mo. It leads up a ridge, through forest and provides a detour to an overlook of the Missouri River Valley. The trail continues downward and connects with the KATY Trail. The KATY Trail runs along the base of spectacular river bluffs that are part of the conservation area. Follow the KATY south and you’ll enter the town of Hartsburg, where you can complete a loop by returning to the Hart Creek trail head.
Length The Department of Conservation does not provide mileage for the trail, but it’s 1.5-2 miles. However, it is a rigorous hike, so the distance is further than it sounds. If you continue south on the KATY Trail to Hartsburg, the loop is between 3-4 miles.
Address and location Hart Creek Conservation Area is near the small town of Hartsburg and is accessed via a gravel road. The parking area and trail head is at: 20519-20725 S. Hart Creek Rd, Hartsburg, Mo., 65039.
Conditions The Hart Creek Conservation Area trail is a natural surface route that is easy to follow. There are significant elevation changes as hikers walk up the hill to the top of the ridge and back down. The KATY Trail has a pea gravel surface and is flat.
Kid friendly? The Hart Creek trail doesn’t accommodate strollers, so children will need to walk. The trail is strenuous. The KATY Trail walk is flat and relatively easy.
How busy? This trail is lightly trafficked. However, it is a conservation area so be mindful of hunting seasons.
Pets Yes, on a leash (unless otherwise designated).
Bikes In the conservation area, bicycling is allowed on the designated hiking and biking trail. Bikes are always permitted on the KATY Trail.
Official websites
Other hiking opportunities near Columbia, Mo.
