Perfect Kid Friendly Hike at Johnson’s Shut-Ins
#horseshoegladetrail #johnsonsshutinsstatepark #missouristateparks
I’m still at Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park in Missouri this week solo hiking the 1.8 mile Horseshoe Glade Trail. This hiking trail is perfect for young kids or those who aren’t quite ready for the technical aspects of the Shut-Ins Trail. Featuring a creek and overlook (without much elevation gain) this is a great short kid-friendly hike to add to your trip to Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park!
AllTrails Stats
Horseshoe Glade Trail
Type: Loop | Rate: Moderate | Traffic: Light | Length: 1.8mi | Elevation Gain: 269ft
This little hike is a great addition to your trip to Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park, and perfect for the whole family.
The Perfect Kid-Friendly Missouri Hike
I added on this little hike at the end of my Shut-Ins Trail hike and I was wonderfully surprised by how lovely it was. I have a feeling the Horseshoe Glade Trail was designed as a hiking option for families and kids visiting the shut-ins as an extra activity, and I think Missouri State Parks succeeded on all fronts!
Horseshoe Glade Trail Review
Forking off from the paved path leading to the shut-ins, Horseshoe Glade Trail is an easy gradual 269 foot climb up to the top of the ridge where you’ll find a glade featuring a creek and lovely views of the valley to the south. If you wanted to pack a small picnic, this is a great spot for it (make sure to leave no trace!) Continuing on around the lollipop there is another overlook facing east from which you can see the Black River and the Taum Sauk Reservoir. Overall, it’s a short manageable hike for young hikers and those who may not be excited about the technical aspects of the Shut-Ins Trail.
Follow me on Instagram @mshepjordan9 for more photos from my hike!
Learn more about Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park and how it was swiped out by the Taum Sauk Reservoir breach of 2005 HERE.
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