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 Reporter |
Summary: This trail is arguably the best, most scenic trail in the state. It has a little bit of everything, unusual rock formations, beautiful creeks, old forests, panoramic views, and wildlife. The trail can be strenuous at times, but the climbs are worthwhile as they afford fantastic views of the surrounding mountains. There is a connector trail that allows this trail to be cut in half to make a very nice shortened day hike. There are three backpacking campsites along the trail to accommodate an extended trip. This is one trail that should not be missed! Trailhead: There is ample parking and well marked signs within the boundaries of Hawn State Park. I recommend following the Pickle Creek Trail as it joins the Whispering Pines Trail and Pickle Creek is a beautiful granite boulder strewn creek. (Lat:37.83073 Lon:-90.23149) Trail Guides for Whispering Pines Loop Trail: Best Seasons: Year-Round User Groups: Hikers, Dogs, Ranger Contact: Missouri Dept. Of Natural Resources, Hawn State Park (573) 883-3603 Localhikes Reporter: This hike was submitted by Jim Williams, who has posted 3 other hikes on this site Trail Reviews Submit your own review 
Reviewed by David Eng on 10/8/2009 I had high hopes for this trail after reading reviews that said it is "the best, most scenic trail in the state." I made the 90 minute drive, and hiked the 10 mile north and south loop. I didn't discover any scenic overlook that's worth talking about, although there was a babbling creek here and there, but nothing amazing. In short, if you want to hike for hike's sake, go for it. If you're looking for a reward with the least amount of effort, I suggest Castlewood State Park. 
Reviewed by Deby on 8/23/2009 We hiked this trail with the cub scouts. This was probably the most strenuous hike that we have done since starting our hiking club. We only hiked the red loop, but I would love to go back and hike the entire loop.
Reviewed by David on 7/6/2009 My girlfriend and I hiked this trail on a Sunday between noon and 4 and saw only one other couple all day. You can hike the North Loop only, which is 6 miles, or the North and South Loops, which is 10 miles. Hiking the 4-mile South Loop only isn't an option because it's only accessible via the North Loop, unless there is a road that's not shown on the park map. I found this trail enjoyable to hike and I will hike it again, but I didn't find it terribly strenuous or challenging. There are some elevation changes, and some of the path is rocky or covered with roots, but most of it is a comfortable hike. 
Reviewed by Vic on 11/10/2006 Great all-year trail, esp. during Fall a day after a good rain. If you like solitude, pick a weekday. Give yourself 6-8 hours to do the entire trail properly. A small backpack with water/Gatorade, peanut butter sandwiches, and jerky will do fine. Limited cellphone service, so be safe if you hike alone and leave the trail frequently. If you're a jazz fan, take your favorite along on a CD walkman or ipod - I highly recommend Pat Metheny (MO native). You can't beat having this trail in St Louis' back yard - 2 flowing creeks, overlooks, and peacefulness. There's also a nice long stretch I enjoy that gently climbs thru lodgepole pines. In late Summer and Fall, you can smell fallen pines needles cooking in the sun. Take a camera. 
Reviewed by Abby on 10/2/2006 This can be a difficult trail for some. You will often be walking up and down rocky hillsides. The red loop is better maintained than the back blue loop. You might have to wade through some knee high weeds and brush that cross the trail. It is possible to lose the trail on the red loop before it meets the blue at the top of a rocky hill. When you top the hill, go to your left to follow what looks more like path carved by water than a trail for people. Climb down the rocky pathway and you will see that you are on track. This is a peaceful, wooded trail with a few overlooks, a bluff wall on the blue loop, and creek crossings. Watch your step and bring water. Took 5 hours at a moderate pace. Read more at: www.mostateparks.com/hawn/trails.htm
Reviewed by Jason Matthew on 9/15/2005 WOW WOW WOW, The most well blazed and managed trail I have ever been on. It was raining the entire time, but it was well worth the time. The granite formations are truely spectacular and you will be awestruck by the granite slabs forming a giant water slide like formation down to Pickle creek. Say high to the Ranger, Bob, very nice, and opened up the office early just so I could register in person. Notice: Traveling in the backcountry can be hazardous. You are responsible for informing yourself about these hazards and taking necessary precautions. Information on this web site comes from volunteer reporters and may contain errors or omissions. A current guidebook and proper equipment are essential for safe enjoyment of the hikes posted on this site. Keys: Missouri Hiking, Missouri Trails, Missouri Hikes, Sainte Genevieve County Hiking, Sainte Genevieve County Trails, Sainte Genevieve County Hikes | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||