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3M Flat Branch-Hinkson Creek Wetlands
4.8 ★★★★★ 50 Google reviews · Running trail in Columbia, Missouri · Posted hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Not reported
- Loop distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Loop
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Posted hours
Confirmed from 3M Flat Branch-Hinkson Creek Wetlands' own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
Well-maintained trail popular for jogging, walking and bicycling, with frequent wildlife sightings.
What runners say about 3M Flat Branch-Hinkson Creek Wetlands
“Really beautiful section of the mkt, well-maintained, feels very wild, lots of birds.”
“Beautiful peaceful area to see birds of all kinds, walk your dog, and just enjoy the great downtown area”
“Beautiful peaceful area to see birds of all kinds, walk your dog, and just enjoy the great downtown area”
Beautiful views of natural trail. The trail is very long and well maintained by City od Columbia government. There are route markers after every 0.25 miles, there are restrooms ar forum nature area as well as phones for emergency. You can see many animals on the trail as well as different birds. You can bring dogs to..
Easy walking trail. Birding spot. Has several access points but not parking right at the shelter overlooking the wooded wetlands. Restroom is at the Forum Blvd access to the MKT trail which is a short walk to wetlands area.
Nice trail to run, walk, or bike on. It's well maintained and has a lot of different access points. Just wish people would be more responsible and clean up after their dogs.
This is my personal favorite trail (and section of trail) in Columbia. The Columbia Parks Department does a great job here!
Trail conditions & character
“Beautiful peaceful area to see birds of all kinds, walk your dog, and just enjoy the great downtown area”
“Beautiful peaceful area to see birds of all kinds, walk your dog, and just enjoy the great downtown area”
“Beautiful peaceful area to see birds of all kinds, walk your dog, and just enjoy the great downtown area”
“Restroom is at the Forum Blvd access to the MKT trail which is a short walk to wetlands area.”
“Has several access points but not parking right at the shelter overlooking the wooded wetlands.”
Plan your run at 3M Flat Branch-Hinkson Creek Wetlands
The practical stuff
- AccessPosted hours — posted hours below; park gates sometimes close earlier than the listing says
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadparking, restrooms — reported by runners
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
- Stroller / wheelchairReported as smooth and step-free enough for a running stroller or a chair.
- Websitecomo.gov
- Phone+1 573-874-7460
- Social Facebook
Hours
| Monday | 6 am–11 pm |
| Tuesday | 6 am–11 pm |
| Wednesday | 6 am–11 pm |
| Thursday | 6 am–11 pm |
| Friday | 6 am–11 pm |
| Saturday | 6 am–11 pm |
| Sunday | 6 am–11 pm |
Running trails near Columbia
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Forum Nature Area
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Bonnie View Nature Sanctuary
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Capen Park
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MKT Trail - Scott Boulevard Access
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Playground featuring a train motif alongside a basketball court and soccer field.