Grindstone Nature Trails

Singletrack dirt and grass trails allow visitors to wander over most of the 199-acre Grindstone Nature Area.  Native prairie grasses, sheer limestone cliffs, and a diversity of vegetation, wildlife and landforms provide great visual interest. The Grindstone and Hinkson Creeks, plus the Gordon Tract, which is a National Register of Historic Places Site, are features of this natural area. The Grindstone Nature Area is located in southeast Columbia and can be accessed from the east off of Old Hwy. 63 South or from the west off of Rock Quarry Rd. Parking is available at both locations.  The Hinkson Creek Trail runs through Grindstone Nature Area, and heads southeast to Capen Park and beyond to where it terminates at the MKT Trail near the 3M Wetlands.  The Hinkson Creek Trail also continues north with a connection to the MU campus via the Rollins Street Connector and to Stephens Lake Park. 

• Trail Miles: 5.2 miles, dirt