Hike in the Footsteps of Lewis and Clark at Norton State Historic Site

Explorer William Clark scaled what is now known as Clark’s Hill in 1804. You can experience a glimpse of his journey on this mid-Missouri Trail.

Trail The Osage Trail at Clark’s Hill and Norton State Historic Site.

Overview
In June of 1804, William Clark walked the hilltop that became today’s Osage Trail. Although the Missouri and Osage rivers were wild then, the explorer enjoyed the same vista that hikers can see today. The Clark’s Hill Trail and Norton State Historic Site are found on a ridge between the Missouri and Osage Rivers in Cole County. In addition, hikers will pass by two Native American burial mounds. The trail ends at a scenic overlook.

In his journal, Clark wrote: “I ascended the hill ... found it about 100 foot high, on the top is 2 graves, or mounds, a delightful prospect from this hill which commands both rivers.” His party camped on the shoreline below the historic site.

The rivers’ confluence is no longer visible from the overlook, as the Missouri and Osage are constantly in motion. In addition, engineering has altered the Missouri’s course. However, Clark’s Hill appears much as it did when he climbed it more than 200 years ago. It remains a forested, rugged ridge. It’s also home to the rare amethyst shooting star wildflower.

• Length 1-mile out and back.

• Address and location
  The address is 1816 Osage Hickory St, Jefferson City, MO 65101. The trail is immediately north of rural Osage City, Mo.

• Distance The historic site is about two hours and 45 minutes from Downtown Kansas City. There are numerous hikes nearby.

• Conditions This is a natural surface trail with moderate elevation changes. The best time to visit is from late fall-early spring. In summer, the trail may be overgrown and heavy with poison ivy.

• Kid friendly? Children will need to be able to walk the trail. There are some steep drop-offs on the north side.

• How busy? You’ll probably have it to yourself. This is a remote trail.

• Pets Yes, on a leash.

• Official website 

Trails near Clark’s Hill and Norton State Historic Site

• KATY Trail at Eagle Bluffs Conservation Area (Columbia, Mo.)

• KATY Trail at Hart Creek Conservation Area (Hartsburg, Mo.)

• Mark Twain National Forest, City Creek District (Columbia, Mo.)

• Moon Loop, Mark Twain National Forest (Columbia, Mo.)

• Painted Rock Conservation Area, Westphalia, Mo.

• Rock Bridge Memorial State Park, Columbia, Mo.

• Three Creeks Conservation Area, Boone County, Mo.