We found ourselves in Columbia, MO a bit ago. Stuck for the day with no activities planned, we googled ‘parks near me’ and hit pay dirt. Only a few minutes away from the Mizzou campus was Rock Bridge Memorial State Park.
The Park is a geological preserve and public recreation area encompassing 2,273 acres south of Columbia in Boone County, Missouri.
“The park contains some of the most popular hiking trails in the state and also offers solitude while hiking in the Gans Creek Wild Area. Visitors can also see a large cave system with its rock bridge, sinkholes, a spring and underground stream at the Devil’s Icebox. You can explore Connor’s Cave in the light of the opening for a taste of the underground world. ” — MO State Parks
The day was hot and sticky, but we put on our hiking shoes and set out the the smarmy air. Off into the forest on the most touted of all the trails, The Devil’s Icebox. The name alone was very intriguing. Much of the trail is handicap accessible via fine chat path to the cave portion, which is awesome. There are several trails which criss-cross it so those looking for more adventure can choose a different path.
If you happen to be in Columbia, MO in the future, check out Rock Bridge. You won’t be disappointed.
Wondering why The Devils Icebox…not the Devil’s Stove or Fire Pit. Huh,
DeanaOutside
theoutdoorsampler.com 