Trace Creek Section
Sometimes simple things are the best!
While this section may not feature stunning vistas, waterfalls, fens
or glades, it's still a pleasant walk in the woods, and simply
delightful after a spring rain.
For a larger image,
click here (170KB file)
Overview
This section is located in Washington and Iron
counties and lies southwest of Potosi. The northern 18 miles
of trail was constructed in 1968, with the last six miles added in
1983. To the north it connects with the Courtois section, to
the south the Taum Sauk section, and in-between a new section of the
Karkaghne is being built. It's open to foot, bike and
equestrian traffic. A spur trail can be found near the
section's midpoint that leads to the 12-mile Council Bluff loop
trail.
Current Trail Conditions
As of 04/06/2010, the condition is:
Open and in good shape.
The northern Trace Creek section of trail (north of 32) is in very good shape for a hike/ride. You can extend your hike or bike ride by connecting into the Council Bluff Loop at Telleck Branch.
South of Highway 32 to A - is also in great shape. All the signage has been replaced and there are just a few root balls and holes to look out for. Otherwise, this section is ready to go. Expect some seasonal growth, but this section has some very dedicated adopters, so it should not be a problem.
There is a little illegal ATV activity in the Hazel Creek area, so watch for the OT signs.
Description from the Ozark Trail Council Brochure
The trail's northern entry point is located at
Hazel Creek Campground. From that point, it proceeds south
following a continually changing landscape that leads users through
dense oak, hickory, and pine forests, into shaded hollows, and
across windswept ridgetops. It crosses several small
tributaries and Hazel Creek, which is a major permanently flowing
creek. It also crosses several state highways including C, DD,
and 32 before ending at Highway A. trail users should exercise
caution at these streams and highway crossings.
Directions
There are two official trailheads on this
section. You can also access the trail via a roadside pull-off
on Highway DD as well as Council Bluff Lake (using a portion of the
Council Bluff Trail and a connector to the OT). -
Hazel Creek Trailhead- From the intersection of Highways 8
& Y (about 14-15 miles east of Steelville): go south on Y for 7-8
miles then make a left on CR 657. Go about five miles down this
gravel road and make a right into Hazel Creek Campground.
There is a parking area a few hundred yards on the right.
You have to walk a 100' back up the road to find the trail.
-
Highway A Trailhead- From the intersection of Highways 21 &
32 (south of Potosi, between Caledonia & Belleview): go west on 32
about 7 miles to Highway A. Go south on A about 5 miles to
parking lot on right.
Further
Information
Take a detailed tour of this section
here.
Warning: some of the maps are big!
Danny's
Missouri Backpacking & Hiking Trails Reviews
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