First Day Hike
1/1/2026 | St. Francois State Park | Bonne Terre, MO.
Come out to St. Francois State Park on New Year's Day for a First Day Hike on Swimming Deer Trail. Considered moderately difficult, Swimming Deer Trail travels in the river bottom, along bluffs overlooking the Big River, and through the woods. This 3.15-mile hike should take about two and a half hours to complete. The hike will begin at the trailhead in the campground.
Participants are encouraged to wear good hiking shoes, dress appropriately for the weather, and bring water and snacks. Vault toilets will be available in the campground, but the showerhouse restroom will be closed, and the park's water will be turned off. This event is free, open to the public, and suitable for all ages. Leashed dogs are welcome provided they are respectful to other participants and are cleaned up after.
Registration 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'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 contact the park office at 573-358-2173.
When and Where:
- Start time: 1 p.m.
- End time: 3:30 p.m.
- Meeting location: Swimming Deer Trail trailhead (GPS coordinates: 37.955720, -90.532820)
St. Francois State Park Contact Information:
- Address: 8920 U.S. Highway 67 N., Bonne Terre, Mo.
- Phone number: 573-358-2173