Hiking trails in Autumn are something that many people look forward to. From the beautiful scenery to the natural benefits the season brings, like fewer bugs and cooler weather, lots can agree it’s one of the best times to be outside enjoying nature.
To someone who may not go hiking very often, the what and where of the experience are some things people may want answers to and hiking at any time of the year is something you want to be prepared for.
“The biggest suggestion is to just bring water, because if you don’t, you’ll end up regretting it,” sophomore Connor Harman
said. “And then another really big one is to wear the right shoes.”
While getting ready to go on a hike, it’s helpful to think ahead and keep yourself ready for anything. Some other suggestions are to bring small snacks to keep your energy up if you’re going on a longer trail, a camera for any scenic moments, sunscreen, bug spray and clothes for the weather ahead never hurts. As for the where, Missouri has many gorgeous options to pick from. Science teacher Joseph Brocksmith recommends Castlewood State Park.
“It’s pretty far, but it’s beautiful,” Brocksmith said. “Like, it’s way more scenic. Definitely, I think a place that would be more enjoyable to, like a nature enthusiast, to go for a little stroll, and it’s a lot of woodlands.”
Trails that are more secluded and deeper in the woods, such as Castlewood and the Lost Valley Trail, are where hikers will discover some amazing views with the leaves changing color and often there will be creeks nearby to walk along. Others like the Busch Conservation Area or the Katy Trail are less rugged and hikers will get a shorter hike, yet it will still be very pretty in the fall. Lastly, the Creve Coeur lake view trails are very well rounded with lots of scenery, and the option of paved or rugged paths.
