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Discover a Hidden Treasure at Silver Mines Recreation Area
Back in the 1800s the rush was on to discover precious metals. While most people think of Colorado or California as the place to hunt for gold or silver, silver ore could be found even in Missouri. In 1877, the Einstein Mining Company began operations along the scenic St. Francis River. Silver, Tungsten, and Lead were mined here until operations ceased in 1946. The mining operation was not widely successful, but a small company town sprung up for the miners.…
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Marvel at the Wonder of Whitewater Rapids at Millstream Gardens
You might not expect to find rapids and whitewater conditions in Missouri, but the stretch of St. Francis River through Millstream Gardens Conservation Area features just that. In fact, this section of the river is the home to the Missouri Whitewater Championship each spring. During the third weekend in March, racers and fans alike line the shut-ins’ rocky outcroppings to watch kayakers compete in a number of races. This rugged area gives visitors a feel of Colorado and rugged parks…
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Fults Hill Prairie Preserve – Steep Hiking with Panoramic Views
Bluff Road in southwestern Illinois is one of the most scenic drives in the area. Rugged bluffs rise high above the road on one side with farmland stretching toward the Mississippi River on the other. If you have ever wondered what the view is like from atop those rocky bluffs, check out the Fults Hill Prairie Nature Preserve. Located off Bluff Road near the tiny town of Fults, the hiking trail at this preserve will get your heart pumping. The…
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View Historic Ruins at Fort Belle Fontaine Park
Fort Belle Fontaine is a St. Louis County Park steeped in history. This site was established in 1805 as the United State’s first military installation west of the Mississippi River. The fort took its name from a nearby spring named “Belle Fontaine” which means “beautiful fountain” in French. Lewis and Clark camped near this site at the start of their famous expedition and also stayed at the newly established fort and trading post on their return in 1806. The fort served…
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Explore Turquoise Waters and History at Maramec Spring Park
Missouri is known for having an abundance of beautiful natural springs. One of these springs can be viewed 90 minutes west of St. Louis at Maramec Spring Park. An area of stunning beauty, the park contains the fifth largest spring in the state. An average of 100 million gallons of water flows from the spring daily into a pool of deep blue water. After being told of the spring and iron deposits in the area by local Native Americans, Thomas…
