Area state parks urge people to "Go Take A Hike"

FOUR STATES - Start 2025 off on the right foot by hiking through one of Four State’s scenic state parks.

America’s State Parks promote the First Day Hikes program. It is organized annually from Hawaii to Maine to encourage individuals and families to start the year on the right foot – by getting outside and connecting with nature.

Hikers can choose guided hikes that fit their comfort levels, including mountain and hill climbs, walks along lakes, exploring trails that wind through forests, and wildlife expeditions.

If hiking isn’t in your interest or ability, explore other offerings at state parks near you, from boating or fishing to horseback riding or simply enjoying a peaceful moment from a park picnic table or bench.

Missouri

Big Sugar Creek State Park, 6727 Big Sugar Creek Road in Pineville.
The trail is known to have water at several creek crossings during wet weather, so waterproof boots are strongly recommended.

Roaring River State Park, 12716 Farm Road 2239 in Cassville.
Hikers can explore two small caves, climb above the limestone bluff into chert woodlands, and round out the hike with a view of the Devil’s Kitchen rock feature.

Oklahoma

Bernice Area at Grand Lake State Park, 54101 E Hwy 85 A in Bernice

The park also offers two playgrounds, a swimming beach, a nature center, a wildlife feeding area, and two wildlife watch towers. The park also features a one-mile paved walking and jogging path that is handicapped accessible.

Natural Falls State Park, 19225 E 578 Road in Colcord

Located near the Oklahoma/Arkansas border in the scenic Ozark Highlands region of northeast Oklahoma, Natural Falls State Park features a stunning 77-foot waterfall. The beautiful scenery looks familiar to many visitors because scenes from the 1974 movie, "Where the Red Fern Grows" were filmed in the park.

Kansas

Elk City State Park, 4825 Squaw Creek Rd, Independence

The area is well-known for its diverse trail systems, including the Eagle Rock Mountain Bike Trail, the Post-Oak and Green Thumb Nature Trails, the Table Mound Hiking Trail, and the Osage Lowlands Hiking Trail. 

Arkansas

Lake Alma Hiking Trail, 901 N Mountain Grove Rd, Alma,

The trailhead is located at the fishing pier park on Mountain Grove Road.