Caves and Missouri are pretty much synonymous. After all, our beautiful state lays claim to some 6,400 caves, many of which are pretty well hidden in the landscape. One of the best ways to stumble across those secret caves in Missouri is to head out on a scenic hike. Some are so well-hidden, however, that you'll need to pay close attention to where you traveling.
Set in Meramec State Park, Sheep's Cave Trail is an extremely easy hike that spans just .10 of a mile. That makes it perfect for families with kiddos. The brief trail leads straight to a cave that looks smaller than it really is. Bring along a flashlight, and take care if you plan to explore inside the cave. Stop by AllTrails for more information and a map of Sheep's Cave Trail.
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2. Bluff Trail to Cave – Lakeside Forest Wilderness Area
Bluff Trail to Cave, in Lakeside Forest Wilderness Area, spans 1.5 miles and leads to several caves that you might want to explore. A bonus of the trail is the waterfall you'll pass along the way. However, due to several small inclines and quite a few stairs, the trail has earned a moderate rating. Check out the trail map for Bluff Trail to Cave on AllTrails.
3. Bennett Spring Natural Tunnel Trail – Bennett Spring State Park
Prepare for a pretty good workout when you set off on the nearly eight-mile Bennett Spring Natural Tunnel Trail at Bennett Spring State Park. While it's rated moderate, the trail is extremely popular, so expect some traffic. The highlight of the trail is the 300-foot-long natural tunnel, not exactly a cave but definitely worthy of a mention (and a hike). Stop by AllTrails for more information on Bennett Spring Natural Tunnel Trail. It's one of the coolest free caves in Missouri.
Swimming Deer Trail, which you can find in St. Francois State Park, stretches 3.6 miles and boasts a ton of scenery - from a few wooden bridges to a cave. You'll even run across a sinkhole during your journey. The trail can get really busy; however, it is rated moderate, so be prepared for somewhat of a challenge. Learn more about Swimming Deer Trail on AllTrails.
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5. Devil’s Kitchen Trail – Roaring River State Park
A moderate 1.5-mile hike awaits along the Devil's Kitchen Trail at Roaring River State Park. Expect plenty of foot traffic, especially if you're visiting on a lovely Missouri day. Be prepared for a slight elevation change as you discover a hidden cave. You'll also pass rock formations, which are popular for climbing. View a trail map of Devil's Kitchen Trail on AllTrails. If you have been searching for "free caves to explore near me," you're in for a treat when you see this amazing place.
6. Cave Spring Loop Trail – Ozark National Scenic Riverway
Clocking in at 4.8 miles, Cave Spring Loop Trail in Ozark National Scenic Riverway hovers between moderate and difficult, depending on your skills and experience. However, it's usually a quiet trail, providing tranquility among nature. You'll probably want to wear water shoes as you'll cross through water several times. The highlight of the trail is, of course, the cave, which sometimes floods. Here's the trail map for Cave Spring Loop Trail on AllTrails.
Do you know of any other hidden caves in Missouri? Let us know in the comments! If you're on the lookout for a fun way to spend a few hours that's free, consider a visit to these incredible natural wonders in Missouri. If you have been wondering "Where are some secret caves near me?" then you've found your answer and you are all set for a fantastic adventure now! And if you're looking for great benefits to hikers, check out AllTrails+ and improve your hiking experience even more.
Interesting fun fact: Missouri is home to more than 1,000 amazing hikes, trails, and otherwise delightful outdoor pathways. Some are quite easy and suitable enough for very small children, while others are quite challenging and are more suitable for a lengthy backpacking trip - so, which one calls to you? For me, personally, it's the call of the wild. I crave the solace and comfort of the great outdoors, and as luck would have it, Missouri happens to be one of the best places in the U.S. for nice, quiet hikes. Hiking in Missouri is a true pleasure; experience it once for yourself, and you'll understand for life.
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I've managed to put together a short list (a very short short list!) of five of the best trails (and parks) in Missouri for anyone who craves peace, quiet, and solace. Your best bet to get any one (or all) of these to yourself is to arrive early and mid-week - that's your key to success. So, without further ado, here are a handful of quiet hiking trails in Missouri that are sure to instill a sense of wonder:
The gorgeous Shawnee Bend Bluff Trail is just over two miles long and is rated as moderately difficult; there's a little climbing and scrambling to be done, but it's nothing terribly substantial. I'm not even sure what part of this hike is the best: the jaw-dropping views, the stunning wonder of being fully immersed in the forest, or... well, anything else. I think I'll just pack it up and say that's the best part is everything - the whole thing. It's a nice loop, so you'll end up where you started, unless you happen to discover and meander one of the many little offshoots the hike has. The trail is well-marked and beautiful. If you're a photography sort of person, definitely bring the camera: This is one of the most photogenic hikes in Missouri.
The tranquility of wandering a nice, established (and well-cared-for) trail next to a small lake is just one of those things you might think about to keep you going for the week - and the grossly underrated Indian Camp Creek Park Walking Loop is ideal for exactly that. It's just under three miles long, and thankfully, for those of us who appreciate it, it's paved all the way. Dogs are welcome, though they must be on a leash for this one. Wheelchairs and mobility equipment should have few to no issues traversing the area. This place holds many secrets... dare you listen? Who knew hiking trails in Missouri were so diversely beautiful?
Lake of the Ozarks State Park is a gem in and of itself, but did you know that it's home to some of the least-traveled trails in the state? I'm not sure how either, but it's true - and if you're craving a quiet day away from home, the Lake View Bend Trail is waiting. It's just under one and a half miles long, and it shows off the exotic beauty of the Ozarks in a whole new way. Ticks can be an issue in the summer, so dress accordingly. I suspect you'll fall in love with the stunning views, just like I did.
Old Hahns Mill is a short-n-sweet banger of a hike coming in at under one mile long, and, thankfully, it's pretty easy. If you're fascinated by the natural world around us, you'll love this hike. Immerse yourself in Missouri's stunningly beautiful wilderness and learn what it truly means to love this state. This trail's perfect for exactly that! Avoid the trail on weekends, and you should be golden. This quiet, peaceful hiking trail in Missouri is everything those of us who crave the outdoors need - come experience it for yourself!
If you couldn't tell, I seem to have a thing with hiking trails that have water, and the Shut-in Trail & Mudlick Loop is no exception. This hike is about three miles long and offers some truly lovely views of Missouri's great outdoors. It is moderately challenging, so expect a few spots where the going might get a little rough - it's worth it, though! The trail narrows in places, and fallen trees can sometimes pose some obstacles, but I have faith that you'll be able to do it (and rock it.) The views are amazing, the weather is beautiful, and if you've got time to kill today, you ought to do this amazing Missouri hike.
If you're a passionate hiker and you'd like to improve your skills a little (or a lot), I strongly recommend checking out AllTrails Plus. My hiking was already awesome, and now it's flawless. Score! Need more hiking ideas but don't really want to bother with overly long ones? Same. Check out these incredible hiking trails in Missouri under five miles long.
Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
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Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
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If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
