St. Francois State Park, Missouri.

Directions: Cross the bridge at Chester and follow MO 51 to County H. Turn right and follow H to the end, near St Mary's. Turn left and look for County Road Z. Turn right and follow this road to I-55 North. You will travel on the interstate past St. Genevieve and get off at County Road Y. This county road is very scenic and will end at US Hwy 67. Turn left on 67 and follow to the park (the sign points left).

Upon entering the park, look for the first picnic area wherein you will find the trailhead for Mooner's Hollow Trail. This is a three mile loop and is rated as moderate. The first section of the hike is in a valley. The creek on your left, and continuous dolomite rock outcrops imbedded into the ravines are on your right. Note the huge moss-covered boulders.

Once you ascend the stone staircase you will be walking on a glade ridge top with views over the ravines. The trail descends to a creek crossing over stepping stones. Note the waterfall cascade. The trail will head west ascending and descending the ravines until you arrive at an open glade with a great view over other ridge tops. Further on, the last segment of the trail has continuous rock outcrops. The trail ends on the north side of the picnic area parking lot.

Drive to the south side of the park for Swimming Deer Trail. Turn into the campground and take a right. Look for campsite #30 where the trail starts. This is also a three mile moderate loop. Remember to note the signage for this trail is green. There are intersecting trails. The first half mile has the river on your right, and layered dolomite bluffs on your left. Note the small cave. The trail will ascend stone steps through a cliff. Turn right at the top. Now you are on a ridge with numerous spurs to overlooks over the valley (200-300 ft high). Cross two wood bridges. The next mile is through woods on a rocky, level path. Note the two deep sinkholes. The trail gradually descends and then you’ll walk along huge boulders and rock outcrops. When you get to a "T" intersection, turn right and return to the trailhead.

The Pike Run Trail (an eleven mile loop) isn't worth your effort. These trails are described in the book, Hiking Missouri, by Kevin Lohraff.

For additional information on these or other outing locations, call Bob Tyson at 684-564, or, mailto:robkay43@webtv.net  ■

Updated: 02/27/2006