First Day Hike

at Onondaga Cave State Park

1/1/2026 | Onondaga Cave State Park

Join park staff for a guided hike of Vilander Bluff Trail on New Year's Day. This moderately difficult hike will cover 1.3 miles over the course of about two hours. 

The hike will start at the Vilander Bluff Trail trailhead, which is about 30 minutes east of the main park property. The trailhead is located along Thickety Ford Road, north of Highway N, near Bourbon, Missouri.

This trail is named for Vilander Bluff, the highest bluff along the Meramec River. The trail provides access to Vilander Bluff Natural Area, a 206-acre tract known for its ancient eastern red cedars. Some of these cedars, from 300 to 500 years old, grow out of the rocks along the bluff. The trail features an outstanding example of a dry cliff community that contains two very rare species of lichens. It also takes hikers through a dry chert woodland and chert savanna before returning to the parking lot.

You should expect to encounter some loose rocks and steep terrain during the hike. Be sure to wear sturdy hiking shoes, dress for the weather, and bring plenty of water and snacks. All ages are welcome, but the trail is not accessible for strollers or wheelchairs. Dogs are allowed but must be kept on a leash.

This event is free, but registration is required. Please register using the link provided here. If the hike is canceled, an announcement will be emailed to registrants and posted on the park's Facebook page and the Park and Site Status Map.

First Day Hikes are promoted by America's State Parks and are held at parks across the country at the start of each year. For more information about this hike, please call the park naturalist at 573-522-3760.

When and Where:

  • Start time: 10 a.m.
  • End time: noon
  • Meet at the Vilander Bluff Trail trailhead, east of the main park property.
    • GPS coordinates: 38.09788, -91.13083

Onondaga Cave State Park contact information:

  • Address: 7556 Highway H, Leasburg, Mo. (This the address for the park office. Please see the above information for the starting point for this hike.)
  • Park naturalist phone number: 573-522-3760
  • Park office phone number: 573-245-6576

Related Links:

Associated Activities

Hiking and walking