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MKT Nature and Fitness Trail
4.9 ★★★★★ 109 Google reviews · Running trail in Columbia, Missouri · Open 24 hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Mixed
- Distance
- 4.2 mi
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Open 24 hours
Confirmed from MKT Nature and Fitness Trail'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.
Park featuring a public restroom and walking and biking trails.
What runners say about MKT Nature and Fitness Trail
“It's a very well maintained gravel trail that is well-traveled and surrounded by mature trees, wetlands, and an abundance of wildlife.”
“Beautiful trails somehow running through the middle of town.”
“If you long for a place that is great for walking, running, or biking that is safe to go on -and- has a secluded feeling, this is the place to go.”
A well maintained trail with bridges and services available along the way. Bikes are common and people of all ages are on the trail at all times. A great place for a hike with the family dog as well.
I use to take my kids here to unwind and appreciate nature when they were little. Walking here with a friend brings back wonderful memories and the calm of nature.
The quintessential trail in Columbia. It's a very well maintained gravel trail that is well-traveled and surrounded by mature trees, wetlands, and an abundance of wildlife. Mostly shaded with some open sections. It's overall flat and connects to the Katy Trail allowing for adventures that can go on for many miles.
Great place to go for some exercise walking running bike riding. The only hard choice is whether to go north on the Katy Trail towards Boonville or head south down towards Cooperslanding.
Trail conditions & character
“It's overall flat and connects to the Katy Trail allowing for adventures that can go on for many miles.”
“With common wildlife sightings, easy access to other trails and major roadways, and pretty views, this trail is one of Columbia's best features”
“It's a very well maintained gravel trail that is well-traveled and surrounded by mature trees, wetlands, and an abundance of wildlife.”
“Great trail - fun for family, runners, cyclists, walkers and dog walkers.”
Plan your run at MKT Nature and Fitness Trail
The practical stuff
- AccessOpen 24 hours — no gate to beat, so a 5am or a 10pm run both work
- SurfaceMixed — more than one surface along the route, so check the segment you plan to run
- Distance4.2 mi as reported — check whether that is one way or a round trip before you commit
- 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 | Open 24 hours |
| Tuesday | Open 24 hours |
| Wednesday | Open 24 hours |
| Thursday | Open 24 hours |
| Friday | Open 24 hours |
| Saturday | Open 24 hours |
| Sunday | Open 24 hours |
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.
3M Flat Branch-Hinkson Creek Wetlands
4.8 ★★★★★ 50 reviews
Well-maintained trail popular for jogging, walking and bicycling, with frequent wildlife sightings.
Forum Nature Area
4.8 ★★★★★ 191 reviews
Park for walking featuring wildlife and scenic trails.
Capen Park
4.8 ★★★★★ 393 reviews
31.9-acre park featuring hiking trails, a creek & rocky bluffs with scenic overlooks.
Bonnie View Nature Sanctuary
4.7 ★★★★★ 221 reviews
This 90-acre park is a preserve for native plants & animals, with walking trails & a picnic shelter.
