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 Reporter |
Summary: This is the most scenic hike in the Metro St. Louis Area. Three sections of the trail pass by limestone cliffs and bluff escarpments where hikers enjoy a beautiful view of the Missouri River. These sections require you to take a short spur off of the main trail. The bluffs are usually about 25 yards from the main trail. These sections come up in the first 2 miles of the hike. Moderately strenuous for Missouri hiking. One possible, yet easy, creek crossing in wet weather. Be sure, at the creek crossing, to take the fork that heads NORTH or else you will be doing the full 8.2 mile loop (Lewis Trail). Apres Hike Activity: hop back onto Highway 94 and head south for approx. 15 scenic miles to Augusta. Stop by Mount Pleasant Winery, The Augusta White House Inn, or the Augusta Brewing Co. Well worth the drive! Trailhead: From St. Louis, take I-64 into St. Charles County, South on Highway 94, Continue on Highway 94 approx. 2.5 miles, Gravel parking lot for trailhead is on LEFT, Look for a wooden sign labeled "Weldon Springs Hiking Trail". (Lat:38.675 Lon:-90.7667) Trail Guides for Weldon Springs Clark Trail: Hiking St. Louis by Evie P. Harris (Evie P. Haris) Conservation Trails-A Guide to MO Dept of Cons Hiking Trails by Teresa Kight (Missouri Department of Conservation) Best Seasons: Fall, Spring, Winter, User Groups: Hikers, Dogs, Ranger Contact: MO Dep't of Conservation, St. Louis Regional Office, (636) 441-4554 Localhikes Reporter: This hike was submitted by Chris Rufkahr. To visit this reporters web site, click here. Trail Reviews Page 1 of 6 Submit your own review 
Reviewed by Phil on 12/9/2009 I hiked this trail on Sunday, December 6. If you hike the loop counterclockwise, the trail is pretty well marked: follow the small metal signs with white arrow against a dark brown background. The overlooks are spectacular, but the drop is sheer (keep small children well away from the edge). After you cross the creek go to the left parallel to the creek. You will see a sign where the Lewis and Clark Trail split. The Clark Trail (the short trail), goes to the left: the Lewis trail (the long trail) to the right.
Reviewed by Alex on 11/21/2009 Very nice fall trail, can't wait to do it again when the weather is a little cooler and maybe the ground's not so wet and muddy. Not as well marked as I thought it would be. There's actually more like nine stream crossings after a few days of rain, but none too difficult. The views were amazing at the bluffs and make sure to keep an eye on for wildlife. I actually wandered right up to a doe that was standing in the middle of the trail, almost didnt' even notice her 'til I was about 10yds away. I think she's pretty used to the company. One more thing regarding trail markings, the seperation of the Lewis and Clark loops is hard to distinguish, give yourself plenty of time just in case you end up doing the full eight miles unintentionall 
Reviewed by JHM on 11/11/2009 Great hike that's dog friendly. My wife and I have done this hike for years and keep coming back. As far as Missouri goes, there is decent elevation gain and loss and worthwhile vistas along the bluffs. Mosquitoes can be a concern, as they are everywhere in MO during the summer. That's why this hike is best enjoyed in the late fall, winter and early spring.
Reviewed by Brandon on 11/7/2009 I took my dog with me, and we both enjoyed it! The trail was a little hard to follow at a few spots, but that was because of the fallen leaves. I will definitely be hiking this trail again. To everyone that complains about the mosquitoes....best time to hike is Fall, Winter, and early Spring. Says so in the trail description.
Reviewed by Troy on 10/4/2009 Great early morning hike, nice and cool out. Dense fog over the river made it feel like you were on a mountain top instead of a bluff. Trail was well maintained.
Reviewed by Reiner on 9/8/2009 Great hike with stunning views. Thank you for posting it here. And your apres-hike-recommandation is also great. For me - as a German - Augusta was like coming home.
Reviewed by MG on 8/11/2009 Great hike, GREAT views of the river. Perfect for both sightseeing and some pretty good excercise. I've seen deer, lizards, turtles and armadillos, of all things! The mosquitoes can be insane, though. Definitively recommend bringing bug repellent that is al least 30% DEET.
Reviewed by PJ on 8/2/2009 Great hike with some really amazing views. I took a wrong turn though and ended up walking a few miles of the trail next door. Made for a rough highway walk back to the car. So, don't do that. But the hike is awesome! 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, Saint Charles County Hiking, Saint Charles County Trails, Saint Charles County Hikes | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||