Water sculpts stone at Rock Bridge Memorial State Park
Rock Bridge Memorial State Park, near Columbia, Mo.
The natural bridge is the main draw to this park, but it’s far from the only feature. Explore cliffs, woods and caves on 27 miles of trails.
Trail Rock Bridge Memorial State Park, including Gans Creek Wild Area
Overview
Rock Bridge Memorial State Park sprawls across more than 2,000 acres near Columbia, Mo. The focal point of the park is the rock bridge. It’s really not a bridge, per se, but the opening of a giant collapsed cave. The “bridge” is all that remains. A clear stream runs under the natural bridge after emerging from limestone bluffs. There are other unique geological features at the park, including the Devil’s Icebox. The name is derived from the cooler temperatures in the cave, which can be accessed via a wooden stairwell. While those features are highlights, they can be enjoyed in less than an hour and are only five minutes from the parking lot. If you’re in for the day, the park has more than 27 miles of trails, including Gans Creek Wild Area, a remote part of the park that can be explored via a 6.6-mile loop.
Length There are more than 27 miles of trails in Rock Bridge Memorial State Park. A trail overview and map for Gans Creek Wild Area are included below. You can download individual maps for all trails on the state park website.
Address and location 5901 S. Highway 163, Columbia, Mo., 65203-8195.
Conditions These are natural surface trails, ranging from dirt to pea gravel. There are also wooden walkways to ease access and to protect the fragile environment of some areas. There is a diversity of topography given that there are 27 miles of trails in the park. They range from steep uphill climbs to lazy walks through the prairie.
Kid friendly? There is much for children to explore here, but parents need to be mindful of steep drops. If they explore the natural bridge area, water safety should be practiced.
How busy? The main bridge area is highly trafficked. However, many outlying trails are moderately trafficked or have few hikers. The Gans Creek Wild Area, at 600 acres, is popular but allows walkers to spread out among the woods and cliffs.
Pets Yes, on a leash (unless otherwise designated).
Bikes Yes, unless otherwise noted.
Official website Rock Bridge Memorial State Park
Other hiking opportunities near Columbia, Mo.
