Trail Description:
Cedar Creek Trail is formed by 3 loops, crossing 36 miles of pastoral countryside. Two-thirds of the trail is cross-country; the rest is along gravel roads.
Hiking the
Cedar Creek Trail:
Southern Loop cross 22 miles of scenic country with about one-third of this section on gravel and paved county roads. It is marked in grey diamonds. Smith Creek Section, between Hwy J and Cedar Creek, about 5 miles from Boydsville to Rutherford Bridge. This scenic route provides glimpses of Cedar Creek from the bluffs above. It is marked in orange diamonds. Pine Ridge Section, which passes through Pine Ridge Recreation Area, is open to foot travel and mountain bikes only. This trail is marked with grey diamonds. No horses, please. An alternative trail to the west is provided for horses. Moon Loop, about 7 miles in length, offers varying landscapes. The name was given because, at one time, the effects of soil erosion that occurred in the 1930s caused hikers to think of the surface of the moon. It is marked with yellow diamonds. Restrictions: No motorized use.
Other Activities: Backpacking, bird watching, primitive camping
Safety: During temperate months, be prepared for biting insects, poison ivy and high temperatures. Be advised of hunting seasons. Avoid using the trail during excessively wet periods.
Watch for trail markers, and use the self-closing gateswhen crossing pastures. Trailheads: The Cedar Creek Trail has three vehicle access trailhead developments; Pine Ridge Recreation Area, Dry Fork Campground, and Ginn Lane Trailhead.
Stay on the trail to avoid causing soil erosion.
Leave no trace and pack out what you pack in
Specific Hiking and Trail Information for the Cedar Creek Trail
Best Seasons: Spring to Fall
Length of Trail: over 10 miles
Estimated Difficulty (Forest Service Estimate): Intermediate
Travel Information
Trailhead Directions: From Fulton, MO, take Hwy 54 south 2.5 miles to Route H; go about 6 miles to Rte J. Turn south on Route J andgo about 2 miles to Rte Y. Turn west on Rte Y; go 2.5 miles to Pine Ridge Recreation Area. From Columbia, MO, take Hwy 63 south 11 miles to Hwy Y at Ashland, MO. Go east 7 miles to the Pine Ridge Recreation Area.
For more information on this hike
National Forest: Mark Twain National Forest
Address:
401 Fairgrounds Road
Rolla, MO, 65401
573-364-4621
573-341-7453
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