5 Best Walks to See Spring Flora and Fauna

1. Dogwood Canyon Nature Park

2038 W. State Highway 86, Lampe, 1-800-225-6343, dogwoodcanyon.org

Go chase waterfalls, rainbow trout and more along Dogwood Canyon’s 6.5-mile paved trail, and if you go early this month, you should still find some blooming dogwoods. Access to the trail is $10 for adults and $5 for kids 11 and younger in addition to the park entrance fee.

2. Frisco Highline Trail

Springfield trailhead, 3845 W. Kearney St., Springfield, 417-864-2015, friscohighlinetrail.org

There’s plenty to see on Missouri’s second longest rail-to-trail system, including several creeks, springs and the Little Sac River. Wildflowers and native flowering trees also line the 35-mile trail. At mile 32, don’t miss La Petite Gemme Prairie, which has more than 300 plant species within its 37 acres.

3. Springfield Botanical Gardens

Nathanael Greene/Close Memorial Park, 2400 S. Scenic Ave., Springfield, 417-891-1515, parkboard.org/botanical

Stop and smell the flowers, specifically the irises and peonies, at the Springfield Botanical Gardens, before watching close to 30 species of butterflies flutter about at the Dr. Bill Roston Native Butterfly House, opening May 11. 

4. Hercules Glades Wilderness

Mark Twain National Forest, Bradleyville, 573-364-4621, fs.usda.gov

About an hour southeast of Springfield, the Hercules Glades Wilderness Area is the perfect place to spot critters such as roadrunners, rattlesnakes, collared lizards and more. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes as terrain on the trail is difficult in some places.

5. Prairie State Park

128 NW 150th Lane, Mindenmines, 417-843-6711, mostateparks.com/park/prairie-state-park

This state park, less than two hours from Springfield, is where the local buffalo roam. Spot the herd, which will likely include some bison babies, during a free guided hike on May 5. Advanced registration is encouraged; call the park office to make reservations.