Hiking Trails

Hiking Trails
For hikers, there are some 20 miles of trails. The north road trails are recommended for day hikers, since there are several picnic shelters, many tables, and toilets located along the way. The rest of the park trails are better suited to overnight users. However, hikers are welcome to explore any of the trails through the parks. Overnight backpackers will find several parking lots strategically located for their use. Adirondack shelters are situated on the ridges overlooking the park, while more, primitive campsites are located along the hiking trails. To accommodate large backpacking groups, there is a group camp area atop Rock Bluff Ridge. It has three Adirondack shelters, firerings, tables, and toilets. There is a water pump just a half mile away. However, large groups who want to use the group camp facility should contact the park office in advance of their trip.

Trails are numbered from 1-11 and range from easy to fairly difficult terrain. They are extremely popular with mountain bikers as well as backpackers. Trails No. 3 & 8 make up what is known as Rock Bluff Run, combining 3 miles of scenic vistas high above the Missouri River. An excellent 2 1/2 mile loop trail combines No. 9 & 10. Trail No. 9 offers a gradual climb to the top of the bluffs, then returns via Trail No. 10 which offers some spectacular views.

Equine Trails
Horseback riders will enjoy the trail ride through the park. Rides start at the corral near the St. Deroin Schoolhouse and cover about three miles. Tickets are available at the Booth and should be purchased early in the day. Park guests may bring their own horses to the park and ride the Hardwood Trail, which covers 11 miles of moderately difficult terrain. Primitive camping facilities are located at the trail head and can accommodate fairly large groups who call ahead to ensure its availability. The large picnic shelter in the area can accommodate meeting, family reunions, get-togethers as well as other park guests.

Boating
There is one boat ramp at the park, and bank fishermen find plenty of action from the mighty Missouri River for catfish, bass, bullheads, carp, and occasionally, a sturgeon. Three parking lots offer handy access to the river for anglers. For boaters, there is access to the Missouri at Brownville State Recreation Area, just 15 miles north of the park.

Cross Country
Winter sports are becoming increasingly popular at Indian Cave, with its picturesque and semi-rugged terrain. Some 16 miles of trails are marked for cross-country skiing, and the best snow cover usually occurs in January and February. Since park roads are closed during the winter, they offer some excellent sledding, as do several of the steep hillsides.