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Wagon Wheel Trailhead Loop

 4.5 (2)
  1. Areas
  2. MO
  3. …Northeast Missouri
  4. …Columbia
  5. Rock Bridge Memorial State Park
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Length


3.0 Miles 4.8 Kilometers


301' 92 m

Ascent

-304' -93 m

Descent

4%

Avg Grade (2°)

11%

Max Grade (6°)

845' 258 m

High

714' 218 m

Low

Shared By Paul P

Conditions

Unknown
History
Getting forecast...

“The highlights of this hike include the wagon wheel, some great views, and two crossings of the creek.”

— Paul P
Driving DirectionsGPX File

Dogs Leashed

Features Birding · Fall Colors · River/Creek · Wildflowers · Wildlife

Overview

A tree grew up through the iron loop of an old wagon wheel, which is what gives the trailhead its name. This loop includes both blufftop views and easy crossings on limestone bedrock over Gans Creek, making for an enjoyable hike.

Need to Know

Watch for hard right turn at mile 2 (if hiking clockwise). Also, keep an eye out as there are several options after the second creek crossing.

Description

This is one part of the Gans Creek Main Loop trail system. Wagon wheel is one way downhill from trailhead. Throughout the way, you'll find plenty of great singletrack. Start out on the Gans Creek Main Loop before transitioning to a short connector. Keep an eye out for a final connector heading north to finish the route.

You'll first be making your way along the edge of the bluff, then switchback down to Gans Creek below the same bluff. Cross the creek and then hike back up to the opposite bluff and the best overlook views in the park.

Flora & Fauna

Most of the loop is through mature oak hickory forest. Lots of birds, vireos, tanagers, wood thrush and more.

Contacts

Land Manager: Missouri State Parks Department

Dec 3, 2018: 2018 Gift Card Promo

Nov 26, 2018: Holiday Events

Oct 25, 2018: Trails GIS Site

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Trail Ratings

  4.5 from 2 votes

#1

in Rock Bridge Memorial State Park

#1969

Overall
  4.5 from 2 votes
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#1

in Rock Bridge Memorial S…

#7

in Missouri

#1,969

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Photos

Looking out off of the first bluff you come to, if you take a left at the fork. It doesn’t get much better than this.
Looking out off of the first bluff you come to,…
 3
The trails fork at Gans Creek. If you're doing the Shooting Star Loop, do not cross. Crossing here connects to the Wagonwheel Trailhead.
The trails fork at Gans Creek. If you're doing…
 3
Starting down the trail, enjoy its smooth surface and pleasant forest views.
Starting down the trail, enjoy its smooth surfa…
 3
The trail makes a sharp right and follows blazes with the number three.
The trail makes a sharp right and follows blaze…
 3
Earlier on, the trail runs along the ridge across the water.
Earlier on, the trail runs along the ridge acro…
 3
At the second creek crossing, the rocks can be slick! - Watch for a split in the trail across the creek.
At the second creek crossing, the rocks can be…
 3

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Looking out off of the first bluff you come to, if you take a left at the fork. It doesn’t get much better than this.
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