| The Great Outdoors: Runaway to these secluded parks |
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| Written by Aaron Gabbard | |
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This week’s article is about two unique areas: Clifty Creek Natural Area and Spring Creek Gap Conservation Area. Clifty Creek has a very unique natural bridge, hunting and cliffs. Spring Creek Gap has something totally different, an old fire tower. Both of these areas have hiking trails and secluded, primitive camping. They are also very close to Rolla and make a perfect, quick get-away. During these last weeks of school, don’t forget to take a moment to de-stress and visit some of God’s beautiful creation and wonderful Ozarks.
Clifty Creek Natural Area is a place that many have never heard of before, a local secret. This area is a must see for the geologists. The unique Ozark geology and karsts features are well exemplified. It is located just six miles outside of Dixon. This area is named after the cliffs that are present along the creek. The creek has eroded away the dolomite rock to form high bluffs and a natural bridge. The natural bridge is very impressive, much different than the natural bridge at Kaintuck Hollow. This bridge spans 40 feet and is very tall and wide. A major gravel wash in the creek bed is left behind from all of the erosion. The walk to get to the natural bridge is a nice, half mile stroll that takes you right down the Clifty Creek tributary. There is not really a trail, just follow the creek bed to the northeast (or to the right from the parking area). However, a 2.2 mile trail to the bridge is under construction and is scheduled to be open this year. The Missouri Department of Conservation recommends the Natural Area for hunting deer, squirrel and turkey. The surrounding Clifty Creek Conservation Area has lower ratings for hunting deer and turkey. The Spring Creek Gap Conservation Area has terrain that is considerably different than that of Clifty Creek Natural Area. The coolest thing about Spring Creek Gap is the fire tower. Across the road from the parking lot, there is a fire tower that has an amazing view of the surrounding area. It is an incredible spot to see the stars, city glow, sunset or sunrise (if you’re crazy like that). Be prepared, it is a little windy above the tree line and you need a stomach for heights. The area has several miles of trails that are short and fun. It boasts a great view that is less than a quarter mile down the trail. There is primitive camping available within 200 feet of the parking lot. There are no designated sites, but it is free. This is a great date and hang-out spot because of the cool fire tower and short walking trails. Spring Creek Gap is only 20 minutes north of Rolla. This area also has great populations of squirrel and turkey for hunting, according to the MO Department of Conservation. The trails in this conservation area are brand new, so you won’t be able to find any online literature about them. However, there are fliers at the parking lot that have maps, rules and regulations for the area. So whether you are bored out of your mind, like some lucky people, or going crazy, take a break from what you’re doing and go see the great outdoors. To get to Clifty Creek Natural Area, go six miles northeast of Dixon on HW 28. Then turn right onto HW W. Continue down HW W until it turns into a gravel road, CR-511. It is on the left after about a mile on CR-511. Visit http://mdc4.mdc.mo.gov/applications/moatlas/AreaSummaryPage.aspx?txtAreaID=7309&txtUserID=guest and http://mdc.mo.gov/documents/area_brochures/9330map.pdf. To get to Spring Creek Gap Glades, go four miles north of Vichy on US HW 63. When you see a sign for a scenic view, turn right (immediately across from the scenic view. Look for the Conservation Area sign within the first one and half miles. The fire tower is across the road from the parking lot. Visit http://mdc4.mdc.mo.gov/applications/moatlas/AreaSummaryPage.aspx?txtAreaID=4644&txtAreaNm=s&txtUserID= and http://www.mdc.mo.gov/areas/natareas/p77-1.htm. |
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