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Garth Nature Area
4.7 ★★★★★ 228 Google reviews · Running trail in Columbia, Missouri · Posted hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Crushed gravel
- Loop distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Loop
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Posted hours
Confirmed from Garth Nature 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.
Trails, ponds and woods teeming with wildlife for hiking, dog-walking and picnics.
What runners say about Garth Nature Area
“The only problem with the dog park is the people tend not to clean up after their pets and the city is not very good at keeping waste bags available.”
“This place always lights up my day with the big dog park but they have a nice trail to walk on and get zoned out looking at all the Mother Nature and beautiful scenery”
“I absolutely love how peaceful and calming this spot is whether I’m going for a morning walk, catching the sunset, or just needing a break from the day.”
“There are some easy trails to walk in this natural area.”
“My partner and I took our dog for a little walk just to get out and enjoy the day.”
To find the broad-walks, park at Garth Nature Area and take the wide path to the west (left if looking north), when you come to the y take the left path. Beautiful easy walking.
Garth Nature Area is such a hidden gem in Columbia. I absolutely love how peaceful and calming this spot is whether I’m going for a morning walk, catching the sunset, or just needing a break from the day.
A wonderful and spacious dog park, my pups love it! A great mix of sun and shade with seating for human companions and a pond for play.
There are some easy trails to walk in this natural area. It doesn't take long to go through, but has nice scenery to enjoy.
Trail conditions & character
“This place always lights up my day with the big dog park but they have a nice trail to walk on and get zoned out looking at all the Mother Nature and beautiful scenery”
“This place always lights up my day with the big dog park but they have a nice trail to walk on and get zoned out looking at all the Mother Nature and beautiful scenery”
“Up close to the parking area at least, there were bull frogs, leopard frogs, and some smaller brown frogs in the shallow waters.”
“I absolutely love how peaceful and calming this spot is whether I’m going for a morning walk, catching the sunset, or just needing a break from the day.”
“There’s always parking, the restrooms are available year round, and the entire space just feels well cared for.”
Plan your run at Garth Nature Area
The practical stuff
- AccessPosted hours — posted hours below; park gates sometimes close earlier than the listing says
- SurfaceCrushed gravel — the rail-trail classic: softer than asphalt, still smooth enough for tempo work
- 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(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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