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Lewis and Clark Trailhead Weldon Spring Conservation Area
4.8 ★★★★★ 292 Google reviews · Running trail in Defiance, Missouri · Dawn to dusk
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Mixed
- Loop distance
- 8 mi
- Shape
- Loop
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Dawn to dusk
Confirmed from Lewis and Clark Trailhead Weldon Spring Conservation 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.
Scenic nature preserve featuring 5- and 8-mile wooded trails with river views and cliff overlooks.
What runners say about Lewis and Clark Trailhead Weldon Spring Conservation Area
“We hiked the Clark trail today, a little muddy in some spots but otherwise in great condition.”
“Gorgeous views of Missouri River from bluffs, lots of nature if you go at the right time of day or night can see deer, hear coyotes great place to get away with short drive.”
You can choose between a shorter 5.3-mile loop or a longer 8.2-mile one. Today I chickened out of the longer loop (Lewis) and went on the Clark loop. It is mostly flat with some climbing required-My Strava said that I gained 579 ft of elevation after completion.
This is a lovely hiking trail outside of St. Louis. There is a 5-mile and 8-mile loop which overlooks the Missouri River. The trail is hilly at some places, but the path is quite wide and easy to walk. We really enjoyed the tranquility and time outside. Beautiful cliff side views of the river and wildlife.
I went the day after it had rained and the majority of the trail was VERY muddy with lots of large puddles. There are some parts that are rocky and twice I had to climb over a fallen tree. However, the bluff views were beautiful and I like the variety of terrain this trail offers.
Great moderate trail! We did the shorter loop but will be coming back to do the longer loop. Beautiful overlooks. My dog did get a tick on him so be sure to check yourself and pets afterwards! Parking available, dogs allowed (on leash), no facilities.
Trail conditions & character
“Gorgeous views of Missouri River from bluffs, lots of nature if you go at the right time of day or night can see deer, hear coyotes great place to get away with short drive.”
“Ran two loops to complete 16 miles and the trail head lot was completely packed at that time.”
“We did the shorter loop but will be coming back to do the longer loop.”
“The trail is narrow in some places, so if you bring a furry companion make sure your leash is long enough to allow them to go in front or behind.”
“I went the day after it had rained and the majority of the trail was VERY muddy with lots of large puddles.”
“It is mostly flat with some climbing required-My Strava said that I gained 579 ft of elevation after completion.”
“We like to hike from this trailhead in the Fall and Winter.”
“It is mostly flat with some climbing required-My Strava said that I gained 579 ft of elevation after completion.”
Plan your run at Lewis and Clark Trailhead Weldon Spring Conservation Area
The practical stuff
- AccessDawn to dusk — the gates close, so do not plan a run that finishes after dark
- SurfaceMixed — more than one surface along the route, so check the segment you plan to run
- Loop distance8 mi back to where you parked. Long enough for a real long run.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadparking — reported by runners
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
- Websitemdc.mo.gov
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Hours
| Monday | 4 AM–10 PM |
| Tuesday | 4 AM–10 PM |
| Wednesday | 4 AM–10 PM |
| Thursday | 4 AM–10 PM |
| Friday | 4 AM–10 PM |
| Saturday | 4 AM–10 PM |
| Sunday | 4 AM–10 PM |
Running trails near Defiance
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Weldon Spring Lewis & Clark Hiking Trail
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Busch Greenway Howell Trailhead
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Katy Trail - Weldon Spring Trailhead
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