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Pickle Springs Natural Area: A Geological Wonderland

Explore Missouri's geological wonderland: Hike through stunning sandstone formations, box canyons, and unique plant life at Pickle Springs Natural Area.

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Discover a hidden gem in Missouri's Ozarks at Pickle Springs Natural Area. Hike the 'Trail Through Time' and witness stunning sandstone formations, box canyons, and unique plant life, a testament to the area's rich geological history.

A brief summary to Pickle Springs Natural Area

Local tips

  • Wear sturdy hiking shoes as the trail can be rugged with rocky terrain.
  • Bring plenty of water, especially during warmer months, as there are no services within the natural area.
  • Visit in the spring to see the rose azalea blossoms or in the fall for beautiful foliage.
  • Stay on the marked 'Trail Through Time' to protect the fragile sandstone formations and rare plants.
  • Snap a photo of the trail map at the beginning of the hike to help keep track of the sites along the way.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    Pickle Springs Natural Area is located southwest of Ste. Genevieve. From Farmington, take Highway 32 east, then Route AA east, and Dorlac Road north. Turn left (north) onto Dorlac Road and drive 0.4 mile to the parking lot on the right (east) side. Parking is free. Be aware that the parking areas can get crowded, especially on weekends.

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Discover more about Pickle Springs Natural Area

Pickle Springs Natural Area, a 256.5-acre park in Ste. Genevieve County, Missouri, is a geological wonderland and National Natural Landmark. Designated in 1986, it offers visitors a chance to explore a unique landscape shaped over millions of years. The area is known for its steep-sided rocky slopes, small box canyons, and diverse plant and animal life. The 'Trail Through Time,' a popular two-mile loop, winds through the natural area, guiding visitors past remarkable sandstone formations. These formations include narrow slot-like canyons, a double arch, and Dome Rock Overlook, offering awe-inspiring views. The trail also features bridges crossing Pickle Creek and Bone Creek. The area's geology dates back 500 million years when the area was once the sandy beaches of a shallow ocean. Over time, the sand hardened into sandstone and was buried under layers of deposits. Erosion and uplift of the Ozark plateau exposed the sandstone, which has been shaped by ice, rain, wind, and plant roots. Pickle Springs is also home to unusual plants and animals, including glacial relict species that were more common during the Ice Age. These species include the four-toed salamander, hay-scented fern, and ground cedar. The cool, moist canyons provide a habitat for over 40 species of liverworts and various mosses and lichens. You might also spot pickerel frogs, green frogs, and southern leopard frogs near Pickle Creek. The natural area is named after William Pickle, who acquired the land in 1848. Today, Pickle Springs Natural Area offers a unique and unforgettable experience for outdoor enthusiasts.

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