View eagles from rugged hilltops at Loess Bluffs NWR
Loess Bluffs National Wildlife Refuge, Forest City, Mo.
This national wildlife refuge is best known for wildlife viewing. Lesser known are its rugged trails leading to epic summit views.
Trail Loess Hills National Wildlife Refuge
Overview
Loess Bluffs National Wildlife Refuge sprawls across more than 7,000 acres, north of St. Joseph, Mo. It’s best known as a place to see eagles and other migrating waterfowl. And it certainly is. Lesser known are its more than 4 miles of trails that explore the rugged Loess Hills. Four miles may not sound like much mileage, but walking these hills will exhaust you (though it’s certainly worth it). Epic summit views allow hikers to take in a panoramic landscape of prairie, lakes and wildlife. The Audubon Society has designated it a Globally Important Bird Area. The refuge is less than two hours from Downtown Kansas City.
If you’re headed to see birds, the refuge has a waterfowl counter on its website. You can also call to get the latest on migrations and population: 660.442.3187. Note: Many will want to view waterfowl on the refuge’s north side via the auto tour. Be forewarned that this 10-mile tour is one-way on a gravel road. Once you begin, you’re committed.
About the Loess Hills
Loess hills were formed by wind-blown soil, not geologic uplift, glacial deposits or erosion. They’ve been described as having a “wrinkled” look. Their appearance is striking: Dirt-scarred hills shoot up suddenly from river bottom flatlands with no transition zone.
These “crumbly” hills were devoid of trees in their natural state, often because wildfires and grazing buffalo and elk kept them bare. With fire suppression and farming came trees, so much of the hill range is cloaked in forest. Yet much of the original “fire” remains in these hills, with plants usually associated with the West popping up here.
While loess soils are not unique to Missouri and Iowa, their size here is unmatched except for a region in China. This region is truly unique in the Americas.
Bonus
Nearby attractions include:Arbor Day Farm is a family-oriented park (paid admission required) in Nebraska City, Neb. Lied Lodge, also in Nebraska City, is a unique, nature-oriented hotel.
Nebraska City is also home to the Lewis & Clark Interpretive Trail and Visitors Center (paid admission) and Arbor Lodge State Historical Park (paid admission).
Length There are 4 miles of trails with a dirt surface. The auto tour is 10 miles on a one-way gravel road.
Address and location Loess Bluffs National Wildlife Refuge,
25542 US-159, Forest City, Mo., 64451. The drive takes less than two hours from Downtown Kansas City.Conditions Trails are packed dirt and well marked and maintained. Steep elevation gains can make the hiking challenging.
Kid friendly? This trail is for children who can carry their own weight. There are some sheer drop-offs, so parents will need to keep their eyes on smaller children.
How busy? This area is moderately trafficked. If you are seeking a quieter experience, visit on a weekday or in the offseason.
Pets Yes, on a leash.
Bikes Yes unless indicated otherwise.
