TAKE A HIKE ON NATIONAL TRAILS DAY

JEFFERSON CITY -- Hiking enthusiasts have their own day, and the Missouri Department of Conservation has a place for them to celebrate it. In fact, there are dozens of conservation areas around the state where Missourians can observe National Trails Day in the most appropriate way -- by going on day hikes or backpacking trips.

The MDC has a publication that will be helpful to people looking for places to hike. The Missouri Department of Conservation Trail Guide is a brochure listing 27 selected foot and auto trails on conservation lands throughout the state.

When visiting conservation areas, look for trails survey cards on the informational kiosks. If you fill out a card, you'll get a copy of the Trails Guide and a conservation gift in return.

Southeastern Missouri has many superb hiking trails. It's hard to beat Pickle Springs Natural Area eight miles east of Farmington for day hiking. Duck Creek CA and Mingo National Wildlife Refuge in Bollinger, Stoddard and Wayne counties also have trails.