Missouri: A Natural and Scientific Wonderland
Caves
Missouri, known as the “Cave State,” is home to over 6,200 caves, many of which offer guided tours. Explore the natural wonders of these underground labyrinths, including caves famous in history or legend, such as the one from Tom Sawyer, the hideout for outlaw Jesse James, and the cave with the record for the most underground weddings. Onondaga Cave, a National Natural Landmark, is renowned for its spectacular formations.
Big Spring
With a daily flow of over 286 million gallons of water, Big Spring is one of the world’s largest springs. Its crystal-clear waters gush forth, creating a breathtaking natural spectacle.
Ozarks National Scenic Riverway
Missouri’s largest national park, the Ozarks National Scenic Riverway, protects a wild river system spanning 134 miles of the Current River and the Jacks Fork Rivers. Canoeists, hikers, fishers, and campers alike can enjoy the park’s picturesque landscapes and abundant wildlife.
Lewis & Clark Missouri River Water Trail
Paddle through history along the lower Missouri River, following the trail of the Lewis & Clark Expedition. The mapped water trail winds for over 500 miles through state conservation areas, parks, and city greenways. Access points to amenities are conveniently located along the river’s edge.
Elephant Rocks State Park
In the southeast region of Missouri lies Elephant Rocks State Park, named for its awe-inspiring granite rock formations. These巨石resemble a train of circus elephants, with the largest weighing an astonishing 680 tons. A self-guiding trail leads visitors through this geological wonderland.
Taum Sauk Mountain State Park
Taum Sauk Mountain State Park boasts Missouri’s highest point, the 1,772-foot Taum Sauk Mountain, and the state’s tallest wet-weather waterfall, Mina Sauk Falls, which cascades 132 feet over rocky ledges. Visitors can enjoy primitive camping, hiking, and backpacking trails, as well as scenic overlooks and picnicking areas.
Wintering Bald Eagles
Missouri is a prime destination for wintering bald eagles. In January, these majestic birds can be spotted along the Mississippi and Osage Rivers and near Missouri lakes. Eagle-watching hot spots include Lake of the Ozarks, Eagle Bluffs Conservation Area, and Squaw Creek National Wildlife Refuge.
Audubon Great River Birding Trail
The 408-mile Great River Road, winding along the Mississippi River from Iowa to Arkansas, forms the backbone of the Audubon Great River Birding Trail. This waterway is a major flyway for waterfowl, shorebirds, and neotropic migrants.
Mingo National Wildlife Refuge
Mingo National Wildlife Refuge encompasses the largest remaining tract of bottomland hardwood forest in southeast Missouri. The refuge provides habitat for a diverse array of native plants and wildlife, including numerous bird species. Visitors can enjoy wildlife observation, hiking, canoeing, fishing, and environmental education programs.
Missouri Botanical Garden
Founded in 1859, the Missouri Botanical Garden is the nation’s oldest botanical garden in continuous operation. Its 79 acres of beautiful gardens and historic structures showcase a wide variety of plant life from around the world. Highlights include the Climatron tropical rain forest, the Japanese Garden, and the Doris I. Schnuck Children’s Garden.
The EarthWays Home
This Victorian residence demonstrates practical applications of energy-efficient systems, recycled products, and waste reduction practices. Visitors can experience firsthand how sustainable lifestyle choices can be incorporated into their own homes.
The Saint Louis Zoo
Recognized as “America’s #1 Zoo” by Zagat Survey’s family travel guide, the Saint Louis Zoo is a leader in animal conservation and captive breeding. Its 90 acres are home to 17,900 exotic animals, many of them rare and endangered. Visitors can encounter penguins, hippos, Asian elephants, and a variety of other fascinating species.
Butterfly House & Education Center
This Chesterfield attraction allows visitors to observe over a thousand live tropical butterflies flying freely in a glass conservatory. Learn about their habitats, life cycles, and role in the ecosystem. The Native Habitat Garden and insect exhibits provide additional educational opportunities.
Shaw Nature Reserve
Shaw Nature Reserve, a 2,400-acre experimental ecological reserve, showcases restored plant and animal habitats. Visitors can explore tall-grass prairies, glades, wetlands, savannas, and woodlands along 14 miles of trails. The reserve also offers programs and events focused on conservation and environmental stewardship.
World Bird Sanctuary
Dedicated to preserving the earth’s biological diversity, the World Bird Sanctuary provides a sanctuary for threatened bird species. Visitors can observe live eagles, owls, hawks, and parrots in natural enclosures, and learn about the sanctuary’s conservation efforts through educational programs and exhibits.
Wild Canid Survival and Research Center
Founded by Marlin Perkins in 1971, the Wild Canid Survival and Research Center is a premier conservation, education, and research facility dedicated to wolves. Visitors can observe red and Mexican gray wolves, African wild dogs, and swift foxes living in natural enclosures.
Powell Gardens
Set on 915 acres of rolling hills and meadows, Powell Gardens offers breathtaking display gardens, stunning architecture, and a nature trail. Visitors can admire the Island Garden, the Rock and Waterfall Garden, and the Wildflower Meadow, as well as attend special events and classes throughout the year.
Forest Park
St. Louis’s Forest Park is a cultural and naturalistic gem. Its 1,371 acres provide a green oasis in the heart of the city, offering a respite for migrating birds, a sanctuary for wildlife, and a place for recreation and relaxation.
Katy Trail State Park
The Katy Trail State Park is the longest rails-to-trails conversion project in the country. This 225-mile trail follows the former corridor of the Missouri-Kansas-Texas Railroad, taking visitors through scenic landscapes and historic towns. Cyclists, hikers, and nature enthusiasts alike can enjoy the trail’s diverse terrain and abundant wildlife.
Eagle Bluffs Conservation Area
Located near Columbia, Eagle Bluffs Conservation Area encompasses 4,269 acres of wetland and stream frontage. Its marshes provide habitat for a variety of migratory and wintering birds, as well as other wildlife species. Visitors can explore the area’s hiking trails and observe the abundant birdlife.