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Gans Creek Recreation Area
4.7 ★★★★★ 230 Google reviews · Running trail in Columbia, Missouri · Posted hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Not reported
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Posted hours
Confirmed from Gans Creek Recreation Area's 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.
320-acre regional park with multi-purpose fields for baseball/softball, football & soccer.
What runners say about Gans Creek Recreation Area
“Bathrooms were clean and the concession stand had a few options, good food but, of course, I always think it's over priced.”
“Beautiful cross country course and nice area to play soccer or football or lacrosse.”
This is one of my favorite places on earth. I run cross country and have raced here many times and am spoiled by how good the course is like so good. I never want to run any whare else.
Attended "The Lions Roar" running event for several years. The area has soccer field available.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Gans Creek Recreation Area – 5/5 Stars Absolutely beautiful place! The trails are well-marked and offer a perfect mix of open fields, forest, and creek crossings. It’s peaceful, clean, and a great spot for hiking, trail running, or just getting out into nature.
I visited Gans Creek for a high school cross country meet and was incredibly impressed by the beauty of the area. I wish I'd had a little more time to explore as there were walking paths and other amenities available. Great event and a fantastic facility!
Trail conditions & character
“Beautiful cross country course and nice area to play soccer or football or lacrosse.”
“Bathrooms were clean and the concession stand had a few options, good food but, of course, I always think it's over priced.”
“Plenty of parking and well-maintained facilities make it even better.”
“Lots of room for your rambunctious dogs to stretch your legs and a Frisbee golf course could easily be set up.”
“Not sure if the restrooms were unlocked, but they also have water fountains.”
Plan your run at Gans Creek Recreation Area
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, water — 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 |
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