First Day History Hike in Gans Creek Wild Area
1/1/2026 | Rock Bridge Memorial State Park | Columbia, MO.
First Day Hikes are promoted by America's State Parks and are held at parks across the country at the start of each year. Rock Bridge Memorial State Park is once again hosting several different First Day Hikes.
First Day History Hike in Gans Creek Wild Area
Learn about local history from the 1800s during this 2.5-mile scenic hike in Gans Creek Wild Area. This moderately difficult hike will go off-trail through open woods for about half a mile. Enjoy vistas from a 100-foot-high bluff overlooking Gans Creek and from a shelter cave halfway up on a bluff. Explore this cave that likely was used by Native Americans. If the creek is dry, we will walk on its bedrock and gravel bars for about 300 meters. Visit the ruins of the Reyburn cabin and hear readings from an 1891 diary of a gentleman who lived nearby.
This event is for ages 10 and up. We prefer that dogs do not join us. Participants should bring water, dress for the weather, and wear shoes that are suitable for muddy or snowy conditions.
We will meet at the Wagon Wheel Trailhead at noon. Parking is available at the trailhead and along Bearfield Road, which dead-ends at the trailhead. Restrooms are not available in this area.
This event is free, but space is limited and 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.
For more information about First Day Hikes at Rock Bridge Memorial State Park, please call the park office at 573-449-7402.
When and Where:
- Start time: noon
- End time: 3:30 p.m.
- Meet at the Wagon Wheel Trailhead in Gans Creek Wild Area (GPS coordinates: 38.883490, -92.304750).
Rock BRidge Memorial State Park contact information:
- Address: 5901 S. Highway 163, Columbia, Mo.
- Phone number: 573-449-7402
Related Links:
Associated Activities
Hiking and walking