First Day Hike

at Bryant Creek State Park

1/1/2026 | Bryant Creek State Park | Ava, MO.

Join us for a 3.25-mile guided hike at Bryant Creek State Park. Located just 30 minutes southeast of Ava, Missouri, Bryant Creek State Park is home to impressively large oaks and shortleaf pines spanning rugged, steeply dissected river hills that front the stream for which it is named.

This will be a loop hike, taking place on a section of Pike Hollow Trail. Pike Hollow trail is a rugged natural-surface trail of easy to moderate difficulty. The hike will begin at the park’s main trailhead. This hike is free and open to the public; however, it is not recommended for children 4 and under unless they are carried by an adult. Pets are welcome but must be leashed.

Participants should bring water and snacks, dress for the weather, and wear good shoes for hiking. A track chair is available for individuals with mobility issues, though it can only go on the first mile of the hike to the overlook. The chair can be reserved by calling the park 48 hours in advance.

Registration for the hike is required and can be completed using the link provided here. If the hike is canceled, an announcement will be emailed to registrants and posted on 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 office at 417-683-2520.

When and Where:

  • Start time: noon
  • End time: 3:15 p.m.
  • Meet at the park trailhead (GPS coordinates: 36.827770, -92.426130).

Bryant Creek State Park Contact Information:

  • Address: 1204 Private Drive 3422, Ava, Mo.
  • Phone number: 417-683-2520

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