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.

Trail Conditions

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. There is a tree down here and there south Hwy C, but mostly clear.  Council Bluff Lake loop is all clear and it is in almost perfect condition. Watch for a few trees down south of the Middle Fork connector before Hwy 32.

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Campgrounds

Hazel Creek. Primitive camping is allowed in the Mark Twain forest (100′ from trail)

campfire friends

26

Miles of Trail

MODERATE

Difficulty

1027′

N to S ascent

1081′

S to N ascent

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Trail Geography

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 is the Middle Fork-John Roth Memorial section. The Trace Creek section is 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.

Maps

Land Managers

US Forest Service

Mark Twain National Forest

Potosi/Fredericktown Ranger

District

10019 West State Highway 8

Potosi MO 63664

573-438-5427

Office Hours

Mon-Fri 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

www.fs.usda.gov/mtnf

Emergency Numbers

Washington County

Ambulance Service

111 S Water St

Potosi MO 63664

573-438-3635


Potosi Fire Department

313 E Jefferson St

Potosi MO 63664

573-438-5465

Washington County

Memorial Hospital

300 Health Way

Potosi MO 63664

573-438-5451

Washington County Sheriff

116 W High St

Potosi MO 63664

573-438-5478

Iron County Hospital

301 N Hwy 21

Pilot Knob MO 63663

573-546-1260

Iron County Sheriff

220 S Shepherd St

Ironton MO 63650

573-546-7051

IN CASE OF EMERGENCY DIAL 911

Cellular service is not available in all areas of the trail. Seek higher ground or a clear area for best signal strength.

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